Olympus Tough-3000 vs Panasonic FS12

In this article, we will be comparing the Olympus Tough-3000 and Panasonic FS12, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Ultracompact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the Tough-3000 (12MP) and the FS12 (12MP) is relatively comparable and they come with the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The Tough-3000 was brought out 9 months later than the FS12 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus Tough-3000 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FS12 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the Tough-3000 matches up versus the FS12 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus Tough-3000 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS12. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus Tough-3000 Gallery and Panasonic FS12 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera frequently, you should factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus Tough-3000 provides outer dimensions of 96mm x 65mm x 23mm (3.8" x 2.6" x 0.9") and a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) and the Panasonic FS12 has dimensions of 97mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 129 grams (0.28 lbs).

Check out the Olympus Tough-3000 and Panasonic FS12 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Here is the front view sizing comparison of the Tough-3000 compared to the FS12.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the Tough-3000 and FS12 is 94 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it's tough to see the gap in sensor sizing just by going through specifications. The visual here may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the Tough-3000 and FS12.

To sum up, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the identical resolution so you should expect comparable quality of pictures however you really should take the production date of the cameras into account. The newer Tough-3000 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.