Olympus TG-3 vs Panasonic SZ1

On this page, we will be matching up the Olympus TG-3 versus Panasonic SZ1, former being a Waterproof while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the TG-3 (16MP) and the SZ1 (16MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras have the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The TG-3 was revealed 2 years later than the SZ1 and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting right into a complete comparison, here is a quick view of how the TG-3 grades versus the SZ1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Tough TG-3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The full galleries are provided at Olympus TG-3 Gallery & Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus TG-3 offers external measurements of 112mm x 66mm x 31mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.2") along with a weight of 247 grams (0.54 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ1 has specifications of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

See the Olympus TG-3 versus Panasonic SZ1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have at that moment. Below is a front view scale comparison of the TG-3 versus the SZ1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the TG-3 and SZ1 is 90 and 95 respectively.

Quite often, it can be difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizing simply by reading through specs. The visual underneath should offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-3 and SZ1.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the same MP and you can expect similar quality of images although you will want to consider the launch date of the products into consideration. The more recent TG-3 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.