Nikon AW120 vs Olympus SZ-15

Following is a in-depth assessment of the Nikon AW120 and Olympus SZ-15, one is a Waterproof and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Nikon and Olympus. The image resolution of the AW120 (16MP) and the SZ-15 (16MP) is fairly close and both cameras offer the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The AW120 was launched 8 months after the SZ-15 so they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple highlight of how the AW120 grades versus the SZ-15 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix AW120 and Olympus SZ-15. The complete galleries are viewable at Nikon AW120 Gallery and Olympus SZ-15 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera, you will want to think about its weight and dimensions. The Nikon AW120 features outside dimensions of 110mm x 66mm x 26mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.0") with a weight of 213 grams (0.47 lbs) and the Olympus SZ-15 has dimensions of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") having a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon AW120 and Olympus SZ-15 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you use at the time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the AW120 versus the SZ-15.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the AW120 and SZ-15 is 92 and 88 respectively.

More often than not, it can be tough to visualise the difference in sensor sizes just by researching specifications. The image underneath should provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the AW120 and SZ-15.

Plainly, each of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the same megapixels so you should expect comparable quality of pictures though you will want to take the release date of the cameras into account. The fresher AW120 is going to have a benefit in sensor technology.