Olympus VR-340 vs Panasonic SZ3

On this page, we will be contrasting the Olympus VR-340 versus Panasonic SZ3, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the VR-340 (16MP) and the SZ3 (16MP) is pretty close and both cameras offer the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The VR-340 was released 12 months earlier than the SZ3 and they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the VR-340 matches up versus the SZ3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus VR-340 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ3. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus VR-340 Gallery & Panasonic SZ3 Gallery.

For those who are intending to lug around your camera frequently, you have to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus VR-340 offers exterior dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ3 has measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus VR-340 versus Panasonic SZ3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is a front view size comparison of the VR-340 vs the SZ3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the VR-340 and SZ3 is 96 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to imagine the difference in sensor measurements only by viewing a spec sheet. The visual here may give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the VR-340 and SZ3.

Clearly, both of those cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the same exact megapixels and you can expect comparable quality of photos though you should consider the age of the cameras into account. The older VR-340 will be behind in sensor innovation.