Olympus FE-4030 vs Panasonic ZS15

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Olympus FE-4030 and Panasonic ZS15, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the FE-4030 (14MP) and the ZS15 (12MP) is relatively well matched and they possess the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The FE-4030 was manufactured 3 years earlier than the ZS15 which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a short overview of how the FE-4030 matches up against the ZS15 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus FE-4030 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus FE-4030 Gallery & Panasonic ZS15 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera, you have to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus FE-4030 features external dimensions of 93mm x 56mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 146 grams (0.32 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS15 has sizing of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") along with a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Look at the Olympus FE-4030 and Panasonic ZS15 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. The following is the front view dimension comparison of the FE-4030 versus the ZS15.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the FE-4030 and ZS15 is 95 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to imagine the difference between sensor sizes just by reading through specs. The pic below will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the FE-4030 and ZS15.

All in all, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You can count on the Olympus FE-4030 to give extra detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots far more aggressively. The more aged FE-4030 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.