Olympus VR-340 vs Panasonic S3

Lets take a more detailed look at the Olympus VR-340 versus Panasonic S3, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the VR-340 (16MP) and the S3 (14MP) is relatively similar and they feature the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The VR-340 was launched 13 months after the S3 which makes the cameras a generation away from one another. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before going straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick summary of how the VR-340 grades versus the S3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus VR-340 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus VR-340 Gallery and Panasonic S3 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus VR-340 provides outer 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) while the Panasonic S3 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus VR-340 versus Panasonic S3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you choose at that moment. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the VR-340 against the S3.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the VR-340 and S3 is 96 and 96 respectively.

Typically, its hard to picture the difference between sensor sizes merely by reading a spec sheet. The picture here will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the VR-340 and S3.

Clearly, both cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit different MP. You should count on the Olympus VR-340 to deliver greater detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The younger VR-340 provides a benefit in sensor technology.