Olympus FE-45 vs Panasonic ZS20

Following is a comprehensive assessment of the Olympus FE-45 and Panasonic ZS20, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a big difference among the resolutions of the FE-45 (10MP) and ZS20 (14MP) but both cameras boast the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The FE-45 was manufactured 4 years prior to the ZS20 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a in depth comparison, here is a simple summary of how the FE-45 matches up versus the ZS20 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus FE-45 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus FE-45 Gallery and Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry around your camera often, you'll have to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus FE-45 provides outer measurements of 94mm x 62mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") having a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS20 has measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check out the Olympus FE-45 and Panasonic ZS20 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have at that time. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the FE-45 compared to the ZS20.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the FE-45 and ZS20 is 95 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to imagine the contrast in sensor sizes just by going through a spec sheet. The image underneath might give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the FE-45 and ZS20.

Clearly, the 2 cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit different resolution. You should expect the Panasonic ZS20 to provide extra detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The more aged FE-45 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.