Olympus FE-45 vs Pentax RZ18

Here is a extensive analysis of the Olympus FE-45 versus Pentax RZ18, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Pentax. There exists a huge gap between the resolutions of the FE-45 (10MP) and RZ18 (16MP) but they come with the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The FE-45 was manufactured 3 years prior to the RZ18 and that is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the FE-45 scores versus the RZ18 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus FE-45 and Pentax Optio RZ18. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus FE-45 Gallery and Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera frequently, you will have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus FE-45 features external dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) while the Pentax RZ18 has proportions of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Compare the Olympus FE-45 versus Pentax RZ18 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have attached at that moment. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the FE-45 vs the RZ18.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the FE-45 and RZ18 is 95 and 92 respectively.

More often than not, its hard to imagine the difference between sensor sizing purely by going over a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the FE-45 and RZ18.

Clearly, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You should expect to see the Pentax RZ18 to deliver more detail due to its extra 6 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The older FE-45 is going to be behind in sensor tech.