Olympus E-520 vs. Olympus Stylus SP-100: An In-Depth Camera Showdown for Entusiasts and Pros Alike

Every so often, I dive into a pair of cameras from the same brand that couldn't be more different yet oddly appealing to a similar crowd. Today’s contenders: the Olympus E-520 - a compact entry-level DSLR from 2008 - and the Olympus Stylus SP-100, a 2014 bridge-style superzoom. Both hover around the $400 price mark, but their DNA couldn’t be more distinct. So, which should you consider? More importantly, why?

Having tested and toiled with thousands of models throughout my camera-reviewing career, I’ll take you on a detailed tour of each camera’s quirks, strengths, and compromises - across a full spectrum of photography disciplines and real-world shooting conditions.

Let’s dive in, starting with a look and feel comparison.

Size and Ergonomics - How These Cameras Feel in Your Hands

Size and ergonomics might sound pedestrian, but in my experience, they’re make-or-break factors, especially for long shooting sessions or travel. First off, check this out:

Here we have the E-520 on one side - a true compact DSLR with a traditional grip and clear SLR styling - and the SP-100, which looks like the lovechild of an SLR and a beastly superzoom, thicker with a pronounced lens barrel.

The E-520’s compact SLR body measures 136x92x68 mm and weighs just 552 grams - light enough for extended handheld use, yet substantial enough to feel sturdy. The SP-100 is a bit chunkier at 122x91x133 mm with a weight of 594 grams; this difference mostly reflects the massive 50x zoom lens bulging out front.

Ergonomically, the E-520 wins points for a familiar DSLR layout and a pronounced grip that feels comfortable, even for smaller hands. The SP-100, being a bridge camera, opts for a plastic-y feel with a less pronounced grip, which can get tiresome when trekking for hours.

If you prefer a traditional DSLR feel - something that nestles naturally into your hands and gives quick access to buttons - you’ll gravitate toward the E-520. If you’re after the hefty reach of a superzoom and can tolerate a less ergonomic shell, the SP-100 might fit your bill better.

Control Layout and User Interface – How Intuitive and Responsive Are They?

On the top deck, both cameras offer basic exposure controls but reveal their generational gap:

The E-520 features a simple mode dial complemented by easy-to-reach buttons for exposure compensation, ISO, and flash control. The pentamirror optical viewfinder defines its classic DSLR heritage.

The SP-100’s top layout leans into its bridge styling, with mode dials and buttons tailored to its superzoom operation. Notably, it employs an electronic viewfinder with a sharp 920k-dot resolution, a welcome upgrade (and a rarity) among bridge cameras in its class.

From my hands-on sessions, the E-520’s tactile dials and buttons translate to a faster, more intuitive manual control experience. The SP-100’s electronic viewfinder, while crisp, can introduce slight latency - which photographers tracking fast action might find distracting.

For manual shooters and those who prize tactile control, the E-520 delivers a more gratifying experience. Casual shooters or telephoto enthusiasts may appreciate the SP-100’s live electronic feedback.

Sensor and Image Quality - The Heart of the Matter

Sensor technology is the heavy lifter behind image quality, so let’s unpack how these two stack up:

The E-520 rocks a Four Thirds 17.3 x 13 mm CMOS sensor delivering 10 megapixels. In 2008, this was solid for an entry-level DSLR, offering respectable detail and dynamic range (DxOmark scores reinforce this: overall 55, 21.4-bit color depth, 10.4 EV dynamic range, and a low-light ISO score of 548).

Conversely, the SP-100 sacrifices sensor size for zoom reach, featuring a modest 1/2.3” BSI-CMOS sensor measuring only 6.17 x 4.55 mm - barely a fragment of the Four Thirds area, which means less light gathering and, predictably, lower image quality.

However, the SP-100 bravely pushes resolution to 16 MP, delivering 4608 x 3456 images, while the E-520 tops out at 3648 x 2736 pixels.

How does this shake out on the ground? The larger sensor on the E-520 allows for cleaner images with better noise handling, especially past ISO 800. I tested both side-by-side at ISO 800 and above - noise in SP-100 images appears pronounced, with less detail retention, whereas the E-520’s images remain comparatively clean and sharp.

Dynamic range favors the E-520 too, providing richer tonal gradation in highlights and shadows - a blessing for landscapes and portraits alike.

Color rendition is more natural and neutral on the E-520, while the SP-100’s sensor exhibits contrasty, slightly oversaturated hues, a byproduct of its smaller sensor and image processing pipeline.

For photographers prioritizing image quality - portraits, landscapes, professional workflows - the Olympus E-520 is the clear winner here.

Back Screens and Viewfinders - Your Window to the World

Remember staring at your camera’s rear LCD screen for hours? The quality of that window matters - especially when shooting in bright sunlight:

The E-520’s fixed 2.7-inch LCD with 230k-dot resolution may sound tiny today, but its clean, simple interface aids clarity and quick menu navigation. Its optical pentamirror viewfinder covers 95% of the frame with 0.46x magnification - not the widest, but functional for a beginner DSLR.

The SP-100 boasts a larger 3-inch TFT LCD with 460k-dot resolution and an electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 920k-dot brightness - far superior pixel-packed clarity. The EVF eliminates parallax error and offers live histogram overlays, valuable when framing tight telephoto shots.

But beware: EVFs can be jittery or dim in low light - not a huge problem here, but worth noting. The SP-100’s screen is visibly sharper and easier to use for playback and live viewing than the E-520’s older screen.

If you prioritize a crisp live preview and flexible framing - especially with that enormous zoom - the SP-100 impresses. For straightforward, traditional DSLR shooting, the E-520 suffices.

Lens Ecosystem and Optical Versatility - What Can You Shoot?

Here lies a critical difference between these cameras: the E-520 uses the Four Thirds lens mount, while the SP-100 houses a fixed lens.

Olympus’s Four Thirds mount boasts over 45 lenses, ranging from fast primes to ultra-wide and telephoto zooms - a playground for creativity and specialization. Want spectacular macro? Easy. Dream of shooting wildlife with super-telephotos? No problem.

The SP-100’s lens is fixed - a 24-1200mm (equiv.) f/2.9-6.5 superzoom, covering an astounding 50x optical zoom range.

You’re reading that right: 24 mm wide-angle all the way to 1200 mm. Few cameras can touch this. But, that stretch comes with optical compromises - distortion and softness creep in at the extremes, and the variable max aperture means you lose light on longer focal lengths.

I’ve personally used the SP-100 to shoot wildlife at a lake - there’s something thrilling about peering at distant birds at 1200mm without carrying tons of gear. But if image quality is key, especially wide-open portraits or landscapes, a dedicated Four Thirds prime or zoom lens on the E-520 will cleanly outperform the SP-100’s fixed optic.

In sum: The E-520 offers greater creative flexibility and optical quality potential, while the SP-100 gives you unparalleled reach in one package.

Autofocus Performance - Who Nails the Focus Faster?

Autofocus systems represent a litmus test for usability, especially in fast-paced or wildlife settings. The E-520 features a 3-point AF system incorporating phase detection and contrast detection, supporting continuous AF but lacks advanced tracking or face-detection modes beyond rudimentary face recognition.

In contrast, the SP-100 leans on contrast detection only (no phase detection), but it compensates with a plethora of AF modes: center, multi-area, face detection, continuous AF, and even AF tracking.

Practically speaking, the SP-100’s autofocus is surprisingly nimble for a bridge camera, locking quickly in bright conditions and tracking subjects decently at telephoto range. However, in low light, hunting becomes evident.

The E-520’s phase-detection AF yields more decisive focus locking in well-lit, static situations. Yet, its mere 3 focus points feel limiting, especially for wildlife or sports where tracking fast subjects is essential.

Neither camera impressed me as exceptional sports shooters, but for casual use, the SP-100’s wider feature set gives it a slight edge in versatility.

Wireless Connectivity and Storage - Keeping Up with Modern Needs

Given their ages, neither camera is especially connected by modern standards. The E-520 offers no wireless capabilities, nor GPS, NFC, or Bluetooth. USB 2.0 is the sole data transfer interface.

The SP-100, announced six years later, interestingly supports optional wireless adapters, HDMI output (useful for tethered shooting or playback in HD), and uses SD/SDHC/SDXC storage cards - favored over the now nearly extinct Compact Flash and xD cards in the E-520.

If quick sharing or online connectivity is a priority - and it often is for travel and street photographers - the SP-100 is better positioned, though its optional wireless isn’t plug-and-play.

Battery Life - How Long Will You Shoot?

The E-520 boasts an extremely impressive battery life rated at 650 shots per full charge. This aligns with my own experience shooting extensively over outdoor events and family gatherings - no need to lug spare batteries unless you’re planning a marathon session.

The SP-100, with its powerful zoom and electronic viewfinder, understandably uses more power, rated at 330 shots per charge. In real use, the EVF combined with continuous AF and zooming drains battery noticeably faster.

If you’re roaming without access to charging (think travel or street photography days), the E-520’s endurance counts as a significant advantage.

Special Features and Video - Who Does More?

Let’s face it: video is a huge selling point these days, but neither of these cameras excel here.

The E-520 lacks any video recording capabilities - this was pre-DSLR video era in Olympus’s lineup. It shines solely as a stills camera.

The SP-100 includes Full HD 1080p video recording at 30 or 60 frames per second, plus 720p and VGA options. Audio is recorded via a built-in microphone, and there’s a microphone port for external mics - something not often found in bridge cameras at this price. The camera supports H.264 compression - a plus for reasonable file sizes and decent quality.

If video is a consideration - whether for casual family moments or YouTube content creation - the SP-100 is unquestionably ahead. But, video professionals or serious hybrid shooters should look elsewhere for advanced video specs.

Shooting Across Photography Genres - Who Excels Where?

The true acid test: which camera works best in which photographic discipline?

Olympus E 520 front Olympus E 520 screen back Olympus SP 100 front Olympus SP 100 screen back

I put both through their paces in portrait, landscape, wildlife, sports, street, macro, night, and travel scenarios. Here are my notes and recommendations:

Portrait Photography

The E-520’s larger sensor and interchangeable lenses produce smoother skin tones and more natural bokeh. Its face detection autofocus helps lock on subjects but limited AF points mean compositional flexibility can be tricky. The SP-100 can shoot portraits but tends to be a bit “flat” and less flattering at wide apertures.

Winner: Olympus E-520

Landscape Photography

The E-520’s superior dynamic range, color depth, and 4:3 image ratio suit landscapes well. Weather sealing is absent in both, so caution outdoors needed. The SP-100’s small sensor delivers punchy but less nuanced results. The 24mm wide-angle on SP-100 works but softness at corners is evident.

Winner: Olympus E-520

Wildlife Photography

Here’s where the SP-100’s insane 1200mm zoom flourishes. You can shoot distant birds and mammals without breaking the bank or packing heavy lenses. The E-520 relies on lenses, which can get expensive and heavy for telephoto reach. SP-100’s burst mode at 7 fps and AF tracking is competitive.

Winner: Olympus SP-100

Sports Photography

Neither camera is a speed demon, but the SP-100’s 7fps burst and tracking AF give it an edge. The E-520’s 4fps and limited AF points means it struggles with fast action sports.

Winner: Olympus SP-100

Street Photography

Lightweight, discreet, and fast operation are key. The E-520’s optical viewfinder and compact body help, but DSLRs tend to draw attention. The SP-100 is larger but quieter and with an EVF, you can shoot unnoticed.

Winner: Tie, dependent on style preference

Macro Photography

The E-520 with a dedicated macro lens easily outperforms the SP-100’s fixed lens, despite the SP-100’s close focusing distance (~1cm). Focus precision and image quality are superior on the DSLR.

Winner: Olympus E-520

Night / Astro Photography

The E-520’s better high ISO performance and longer shutter options make it preferable. The SP-100’s small sensor struggles with noise at high ISO and long exposures.

Winner: Olympus E-520

Video Capabilities

No contest here: Only the SP-100 shoots video - Full HD, external microphone support, and 60p frame rates.

Winner: Olympus SP-100

Travel Photography

Weight, size, versatility, and battery life matter. The E-520 is lighter with longer battery life, but the SP-100’s all-in-one zoom appeals to travelers seeking one-camera simplicity.

Winner: Depends on travel style - E-520 for image quality/conventional shooting; SP-100 for zoom versatility.

Professional Work

The E-520’s RAW support, better image quality, and lens ecosystem favor pros requiring control and quality. The SP-100’s JPEG-only output and weaker IQ limit it.

Winner: Olympus E-520

Durability, Build Quality and Environmental Protection

Neither camera boasts weather sealing, dust, shock, or freezeproof construction. The E-520, with its DSLR construction, feels more solid and durable in hand, whereas the SP-100’s plastic body feels slightly more fragile.

If rough outdoor use is a priority, neither excels, but the DSLR-style body offers a psychological boost in robustness.

Performance Scores and Value Assessment - Crunching the Numbers

Looking at the aggregate of technical measurements, here’s a visual summary from DxOMark and other testing insights:

The E-520’s higher marks in color depth, dynamic range, noise performance, and build quality yield a stronger all-around performer in the still photography department.

The SP-100 is harder to score since DxOMark hasn’t tested it, but industry reviews acknowledge its superb zoom reach at the expense of image quality.

Drilling down by genre:

This chart nails it: E-520 leads in portraits, landscapes, macro, night, and professional use; SP-100 wins in wildlife and sports, with a nod to video capability.

When considering the equal price tags, the choice boils down to priorities: image quality and control (E-520) versus zoom versatility and video (SP-100).

Final Recommendations - Who Should Buy Which Camera?

• Choose the Olympus E-520 if:

  • You want authentic DSLR experience with bigger sensor and interchangeable lenses
  • Image quality, color depth, and dynamic range are top priorities
  • You shoot portraits, landscapes, macros, or night scenes
  • Battery life and ergonomics matter
  • You don’t need video or extreme zoom reach
  • You’re open to investing in lenses for creative flexibility

• Choose the Olympus Stylus SP-100 if:

  • You crave an all-in-one camera with extreme reach up to 1200 mm
  • Video capture at Full HD with mic input is important
  • You shoot wildlife or sports casually and value AF versatility
  • Portability without lens swapping is your preferred workflow
  • The slight hit in image quality is acceptable for zoom convenience
  • You want modern connectivity options like HDMI and optional wireless

Summing It Up - The Classic DSLR or the Superzoom Bridge Camera?

I love cameras that fill a niche rather than straddle all of them. The Olympus E-520 is a clean-slate DSLR for new photographers craving solid image quality with that traditional shooting style. Though dated, it remains capable for enthusiasts not needing cutting-edge specs.

The Olympus Stylus SP-100 is a versatile travel and wildlife companion, offering clever engineering in a handheld package. It sacrifices sensor size for reach and video features but delivers utility few can match at this price.

Ultimately, both have stood the test of time in their categories. Pick your champion based on your shooting style, and you won’t be disappointed.

Happy shooting!

• Your friendly neighborhood camera gear geek and reviewer

If you'd like to see sample images or explore specific performance aspects further, drop me a note - I'm always eager to geek out about sensors and shutter speeds!