Nikon L21 vs Olympus SZ-15

Let's take a more detailed look at the Nikon L21 versus Olympus SZ-15, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Nikon and Olympus. There is a noticeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the L21 (8MP) and SZ-15 (16MP) but both cameras have the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The L21 was announced 4 years earlier than the SZ-15 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick overview of how the L21 grades vs the SZ-15 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix L21 & Olympus SZ-15. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon L21 Gallery & Olympus SZ-15 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry your camera often, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Nikon L21 enjoys exterior measurements of 92mm x 67mm x 28mm (3.6" x 2.6" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 169 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Olympus SZ-15 has proportions of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") and a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs).

Check out the Nikon L21 versus Olympus SZ-15 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are using during that time. Following is a front view scale comparison of the L21 against the SZ-15.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the L21 and SZ-15 is 93 and 88 respectively.

Usually, it can be hard to visualize the gap between sensor sizing only by checking technical specs. The photograph below will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the L21 and SZ-15.

As you have seen, both the cameras feature the identical sensor size but different megapixels. You can expect to see the Olympus SZ-15 to resolve greater detail with its extra 8 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop images way more aggressively. The older L21 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.