Olympus VR-330 vs Panasonic FZ40

Let's look much closer at the Olympus VR-330 and Panasonic FZ40, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the VR-330 (14MP) and the FZ40 (14MP) is relatively comparable and they come with the exact same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The VR-330 was revealed 7 months after the FZ40 so they are of a similar generation. The two cameras come with different body type with the Olympus VR-330 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving in to a complete comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the VR-330 matches up vs the FZ40 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus VR-330 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40. The full galleries are provided at Olympus VR-330 Gallery and Panasonic FZ40 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus VR-330 offers physical measurements of 101mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ40 has sizing of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") and a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus VR-330 and Panasonic FZ40 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at the time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the VR-330 compared to the FZ40.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the VR-330 and FZ40 is 94 and 68 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to envision the difference in sensor sizes purely by going through specs. The pic below might offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the VR-330 and FZ40.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements and the same resolution so you should expect comparable quality of pictures although you may want to take the production date of the cameras into account. The fresher VR-330 will have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.