Olympus VR-340 vs Panasonic FZ200

In this article, we are comparing the Olympus VR-340 versus Panasonic FZ200, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There is a huge difference among the image resolutions of the VR-340 (16MP) and FZ200 (12MP) but they use the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The VR-340 was brought out 6 months prior to the FZ200 and they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus VR-340 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ200 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go through a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the VR-340 matches up against the FZ200 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus VR-340 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ200. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus VR-340 Gallery and Panasonic FZ200 Gallery.

If you're planning to travel with your camera frequently, you need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus VR-340 features exterior dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ200 has measurements of 125mm x 87mm x 110mm (4.9" x 3.4" x 4.3") with a weight of 588 grams (1.30 lbs).

Examine the Olympus VR-340 versus Panasonic FZ200 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have during that time. Below is the front view size comparison of the VR-340 vs the FZ200.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the VR-340 and FZ200 is 96 and 65 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to picture the difference in sensor dimensions purely by seeing a spec sheet. The pic below should give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the VR-340 and FZ200.

Clearly, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different megapixels. You should anticipate the Olympus VR-340 to show more detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop photos far more aggressively.