Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic ZS8 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Olympus SH-3 has external dimensions of 109 x 63 x 42 mm (4.29 x 2.48 x 1.65″) and weighs 271 g (0.60 lb / 9.56 oz) (including batteries). Panasonic ZS8 has external dimensions of 105 x 58 x 33 mm (4.13 x 2.28 x 1.3″) and weighs 210 g (0.46 lb / 7.41 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Olympus SH-3 and the Panasonic ZS8. Panasonic ZS8 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 4mm narrower, 5mm shorter and 9mm thinner than Olympus SH-3.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic ZS8.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic ZS8.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Panasonic ZS8 is significantly lighter (61g ) than the Olympus SH-3 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither the Olympus Stylus SH-3 nor Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8 (Lumix DMC-TZ18) provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Olympus SH-3 and Panasonic ZS8's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.