Olympus VR-320 vs Panasonic G3

Following is a thorough assessment of the Olympus VR-320 versus Panasonic G3, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the VR-320 (14MP) and the G3 (16MP) is relatively similar but the VR-320 (1/2.3") and G3 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor measurements.

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The VR-320 was launched about the same time to the G3 which means that they are of a similar age. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus VR-320 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving through a thorough comparison, below is a short summation of how the VR-320 grades versus the G3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus VR-320 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus VR-320 Gallery & Panasonic G3 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera regularly, you will need to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus VR-320 features exterior measurements of 101mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Panasonic G3 has measurements of 115mm x 84mm x 47mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 1.9") having a weight of 336 grams (0.74 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus VR-320 versus Panasonic G3 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have at the time. Below is the front view size comparison of the VR-320 vs the G3.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the VR-320 and G3 is 94 and 83 respectively.

Quite often, it's difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizes only by going over specs. The picture underneath may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the VR-320 and G3.

All in all, the two cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The VR-320 due to its tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF more challenging and the Panasonic G3 will offer extra detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively.