Olympus TG-2 iHS vs Panasonic ZS3

Its time to look more closely at the Olympus TG-2 iHS and Panasonic ZS3, one is a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the TG-2 iHS (12MP) and the ZS3 (10MP) is relatively comparable and they come with the exact same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The TG-2 iHS was brought out 4 years after the ZS3 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting through a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the TG-2 iHS matches up versus the ZS3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Tough TG-2 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-2 iHS Gallery and Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera often, you are going to need to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus TG-2 iHS comes with outside dimensions of 111mm x 67mm x 29mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.1") with a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs) whilst 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).

Contrast the Olympus TG-2 iHS and Panasonic ZS3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose at that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the TG-2 iHS compared to the ZS3.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the TG-2 iHS and ZS3 is 91 and 91 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to visualize the gap in sensor sizes merely by checking out specifications. The picture here will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the TG-2 iHS and ZS3.

To sum up, each of the cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements albeit different MP. You should count on the Olympus TG-2 iHS to show extra detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs much more aggressively. The more recent TG-2 iHS provides an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.