Olympus SP-820UZ vs Panasonic S3

Let's look closer at the Olympus SP-820UZ versus Panasonic S3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SP-820UZ (14MP) and the S3 (14MP) is relatively well matched and they feature the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SP-820UZ was announced 20 months later than the S3 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the SP-820UZ scores against the S3 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SP-820UZ Gallery and Panasonic S3 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you will want to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus SP-820UZ enjoys outside measurements of 117mm x 78mm x 93mm (4.6" x 3.1" x 3.7") along with a weight of 485 grams (1.07 lbs) whilst the Panasonic S3 has measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SP-820UZ versus Panasonic S3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilising at the time. Following is the front view dimension comparison of the SP-820UZ vs the S3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SP-820UZ and S3 is 69 and 96 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to visualize the gap between sensor measurements just by looking at specifications. The photograph here will help give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-820UZ and S3.

Plainly, the two cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements and the identical MP and you should expect similar quality of images but you have to consider the production date of the products into consideration. The fresher SP-820UZ provides an advantage with regard to sensor technology.