Olympus VG-160 vs Panasonic SZ3

Let's take a closer look at the Olympus VG-160 and Panasonic SZ3, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the VG-160 (14MP) and the SZ3 (16MP) is pretty comparable and both cameras provide the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The VG-160 was unveiled 12 months earlier than the SZ3 so they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting right into a thorough comparison, here is a concise summary of how the VG-160 grades vs the SZ3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus VG-160 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The full galleries are available at Olympus VG-160 Gallery and Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry around your camera often, you are going to need to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus VG-160 offers exterior measurements of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ3 has measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Look at the Olympus VG-160 and Panasonic SZ3 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at the time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the VG-160 vs the SZ3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the VG-160 and SZ3 is 96 and 96 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to see the gap in sensor sizes only by checking out technical specs. The image here may provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the VG-160 and SZ3.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Panasonic SZ3 to provide extra detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures way more aggressively. The more aged VG-160 will be behind in sensor technology.