Nikon L21 vs Olympus XZ-1

Below is a thorough comparison of the Nikon L21 versus Olympus XZ-1, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by companies Nikon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the L21 (8MP) and the XZ-1 (10MP) is very well matched but the L21 (1/2.3") and XZ-1 (1/1.63") enjoy totally different sensor sizing.

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The L21 was released 11 months earlier than the XZ-1 and they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a thorough comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the L21 matches up versus the XZ-1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix L21 and Olympus XZ-1. The complete galleries are available at Nikon L21 Gallery and Olympus XZ-1 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera, you are going to need to factor its weight and volume. The Nikon L21 has got physical measurements of 92mm x 67mm x 28mm (3.6" x 2.6" x 1.1") with a weight of 169 grams (0.37 lbs) and the Olympus XZ-1 has sizing of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") along with a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs).

Check out the Nikon L21 versus Olympus XZ-1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen during that time. The following is the front view size comparison of the L21 compared to the XZ-1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the L21 and XZ-1 is 93 and 88 respectively.

More often than not, it's hard to visualise the contrast between sensor measurements merely by looking at specs. The graphic underneath will help give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the L21 and XZ-1.

As you can plainly see, both cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The L21 due to its tinier sensor will make shooting bokeh trickier and the Olympus XZ-1 will give you extra detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos a little more aggressively. The older L21 is going to be behind in sensor technology.