Olympus VR-330 vs Panasonic ZS3

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Olympus VR-330 versus Panasonic ZS3, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a noticeable difference between the resolutions of the VR-330 (14MP) and ZS3 (10MP) but they use the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The VR-330 was manufactured 22 months later than the ZS3 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a detailed comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the VR-330 grades against the ZS3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus VR-330 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS3. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus VR-330 Gallery & Panasonic ZS3 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera regularly, you'll need to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus VR-330 comes with exterior measurements of 101mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS3 has specifications of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus VR-330 versus Panasonic ZS3 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the VR-330 versus the ZS3.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the VR-330 and ZS3 is 94 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to visualise the difference between sensor sizing purely by reading specs. The visual here will help offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the VR-330 and ZS3.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same megapixels. You can expect the Olympus VR-330 to offer extra detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures far more aggressively. The fresher VR-330 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.