Olympus FE-5020 vs Panasonic SZ5

The following is a detailed review of the Olympus FE-5020 versus Panasonic SZ5, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the FE-5020 (12MP) and the SZ5 (14MP) is fairly similar and both cameras posses the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The FE-5020 was revealed 4 years earlier than the SZ5 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a short overview of how the FE-5020 grades against the SZ5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus FE-5020 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The full galleries are provided at Olympus FE-5020 Gallery and Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

When you are going to travel with your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus FE-5020 offers outer dimensions of 93mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 137 grams (0.30 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ5 has measurements of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

Look at the Olympus FE-5020 versus Panasonic SZ5 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at the time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the FE-5020 against the SZ5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the FE-5020 and SZ5 is 95 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to visualize the difference between sensor dimensions just by reading specs. The image below will help provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the FE-5020 and SZ5.

All in all, the 2 cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You should anticipate the Panasonic SZ5 to offer greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop photos more aggressively. The more aged FE-5020 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.