FujiFilm JZ500 vs Olympus XZ-2 iHS

In this write-up, we are reviewing the FujiFilm JZ500 versus Olympus XZ-2 iHS, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by manufacturers FujiFilm and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the JZ500 (14MP) and the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) is fairly well matched but the JZ500 (1/2.3") and XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") come with different sensor dimensions.

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The JZ500 was revealed 3 years before the XZ-2 iHS which is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a step-by-step comparison, below is a short overview of how the JZ500 scores against the XZ-2 iHS in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for FujiFilm FinePix JZ500 & Olympus XZ-2 iHS. The full galleries are provided at FujiFilm JZ500 Gallery & Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to think about its weight and volume. The FujiFilm JZ500 enjoys outer dimensions of 97mm x 57mm x 29mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 1.1") along with a weight of 168 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Olympus XZ-2 iHS has sizing of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") having a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs).

Take a look at the FujiFilm JZ500 versus Olympus XZ-2 iHS in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are using at that time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the JZ500 against the XZ-2 iHS.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the JZ500 and XZ-2 iHS is 93 and 85 respectively.

Quite often, it is hard to visualize the contrast between sensor sizes purely by reading through specifications. The image below will help give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the JZ500 and XZ-2 iHS.

To sum up, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The JZ500 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field trickier and the FujiFilm JZ500 will give you extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged JZ500 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.