Leica C vs Olympus SZ-12

Its time to examine more in depth at the Leica C and Olympus SZ-12, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Leica and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the C (12MP) and the SZ-12 (14MP) is relatively close but the C (1/1.7") and SZ-12 (1/2.3") possess different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The C was announced 21 months later than the SZ-12 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the C scores vs the SZ-12 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica C and Olympus SZ-12. The whole galleries are available at Leica C Gallery and Olympus SZ-12 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to lug around your camera frequently, you need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Leica C comes with exterior measurements of 103mm x 63mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.5" x 1.1") and a weight of 195 grams (0.43 lbs) whilst the Olympus SZ-12 has measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs).

Check out the Leica C and Olympus SZ-12 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Following is the front view overall size comparison of the C versus the SZ-12.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the C and SZ-12 is 92 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to visualize the difference in sensor measurements just by looking through technical specs. The photograph below will help offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the C and SZ-12.

As you have seen, each of the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The C with its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF less difficult and the Olympus SZ-12 will render extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more recent C provides an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.