Olympus E-600 vs Sony S980

On this page, we will be reviewing the Olympus E-600 vs Sony S980, former being a Entry-Level DSLR while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the E-600 (12MP) and the S980 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the E-600 (Four Thirds) and S980 (1/2.3") offer different sensor sizes.

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The E-600 was brought out 7 months later than the S980 and they are both of a similar age. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-600 being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony S980 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight to a in depth comparison, here is a brief summation of how the E-600 matches up vs the S980 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-600 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-600 Gallery & Sony S980 Gallery.

If you're aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you need to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus E-600 comes with exterior measurements of 130mm x 94mm x 60mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.4") and a weight of 515 grams (1.14 lbs) and the Sony S980 has sizing of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-600 vs Sony S980 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you choose during that time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-600 against the S980.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-600 and S980 is 71 and 94 respectively.

Sometimes, its tough to visualize the gap between sensor measurements simply by checking specifications. The visual underneath may give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-600 and S980.

Plainly, both cameras provide the same megapixels albeit different sensor measurements. The E-600 offers the bigger sensor which is going to make achieving shallow DOF less difficult. The newer E-600 should have an edge with regard to sensor tech.