Nikon L820 vs Olympus SH-2

The following is a in depth comparison of the Nikon L820 and Olympus SH-2, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Nikon and Olympus. The resolution of the L820 (16MP) and the SH-2 (16MP) is fairly similar and both cameras have the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The L820 was unveiled 3 years before the SH-2 which is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Nikon L820 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Olympus SH-2 being a Compact camera.

Before delving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick summation of how the L820 scores vs the SH-2 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix L820 and Olympus Stylus SH-2. The full galleries are available at Nikon L820 Gallery and Olympus SH-2 Gallery.

If you're planning to travel with your camera, you are going to need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Nikon L820 features exterior measurements of 111mm x 76mm x 85mm (4.4" x 3.0" x 3.3") with a weight of 470 grams (1.04 lbs) while the Olympus SH-2 has dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs).

Examine the Nikon L820 and Olympus SH-2 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the L820 compared to the SH-2.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the L820 and SH-2 is 72 and 88 respectively.

Quite often, it is hard to see the difference between sensor dimensions just by reviewing technical specs. The pic below should give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the L820 and SH-2.

As you can tell, each of these cameras feature the identical sensor size and the identical megapixels therefore you should expect similar quality of photographs although you will need to take the production date of the products into consideration. The more aged L820 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.