Olympus XZ-1 vs Sony G3

Lets examine more in depth at the Olympus XZ-1 vs Sony G3, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by brands Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the XZ-1 (10MP) and the G3 (10MP) is fairly close but the XZ-1 (1/1.63") and G3 (1/2.3") use different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The XZ-1 was launched 2 years later than the G3 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going in to a in-depth comparison, below is a quick summary of how the XZ-1 scores versus the G3 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus XZ-1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-G3. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus XZ-1 Gallery and Sony G3 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera, you have to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus XZ-1 comes with external measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs) whilst the Sony G3 has proportions of 97mm x 59mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.9") with a weight of 185 grams (0.41 lbs).

Examine the Olympus XZ-1 vs Sony G3 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at the time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the XZ-1 and the G3.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the XZ-1 and G3 is 88 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to picture the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through technical specs. The graphic below might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the XZ-1 and G3.

As you can tell, both of these cameras offer the same exact resolution but different sensor sizing. The XZ-1 provides the larger sensor which should make obtaining shallow DOF easier. The newer XZ-1 should have an edge with regard to sensor tech.