Olympus TG-820 iHS vs Panasonic ZS3

In this write-up, we are matching up the Olympus TG-820 iHS versus Panasonic ZS3, one is a Waterproof and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the TG-820 iHS (12MP) and the ZS3 (10MP) is fairly well matched and they use the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The TG-820 iHS was manufactured 2 years after the ZS3 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving through a in-depth comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the TG-820 iHS grades vs the ZS3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus TG-820 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The entire galleries are available at Olympus TG-820 iHS Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

If you are going to travel with your camera frequently, you will want to take into account its weight and volume. The Olympus TG-820 iHS offers physical measurements of 101mm x 65mm x 26mm (4.0" x 2.6" x 1.0") along with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS3 has sizing of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Check the Olympus TG-820 iHS versus Panasonic ZS3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you choose at that time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the TG-820 iHS and the ZS3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the TG-820 iHS and ZS3 is 92 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to envision the gap between sensor dimensions merely by looking at a spec sheet. The pic underneath may provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-820 iHS and ZS3.

As you can see, both of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You should anticipate the Olympus TG-820 iHS to resolve more detail due to its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos a little more aggressively. The more modern TG-820 iHS is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.