Olympus E-PL7 vs Olympus SZ-16 iHS: A Deep Dive Into Two Very Different Cameras

When Olympus drops two cameras like the E-PL7 and SZ-16 iHS within the span of a year or two, it’s tempting to assume they are close siblings vying for your attention - but that would be a rookie mistake. These two share a name and a brand, but beyond that, they’re clearly aimed at very different shooters and styles.

Having spent countless hours testing both entry-level mirrorless cameras and compact superzooms, I’m here to break down the practical realities behind the specs and marketing buzz. Which camera shines in portraiture? Which better handles a lion charging across the savannah? What will satisfy your travel itch without overpacking? Let’s dissect these Olympus offerings - sensor to shutter speed, usability to image quality - and find out who truly deserves a spot in your bag.

Two Cameras, Two Philosophies: Size, Style, and Build

First impressions matter - and here, the differences are clear, literally and figuratively.

The Olympus E-PL7 is a charming rangefinder-style mirrorless camera, designed for enthusiasts dipping their toes into interchangeable lens systems. At 115 x 67 x 38 mm and a weight of 357 grams (body only), it strikes a nice balance between lightweight portability and ergonomic comfort. The grip is subtle but effective, and the slightly larger form factor accommodates a decent hand hold, even for larger hands.

Contrast that with the Olympus SZ-16 iHS - a compact superzoom with a fixed lens, more akin to a premium point-and-shoot. It’s smaller still at 108 x 70 x 40 mm and lighter at 226 grams. You practically forget you have it in your hand, making it an appealing choice for casual walk-around and pocket-level convenience.

However, that size difference brings clear tradeoffs in control and customization. The E-PL7’s design allows for manual control dials and customizable buttons, while the SZ-16 iHS limits you with a more automated, simplified interface.

Looking down from above, the E-PL7 sports a more serious photographer’s control layout. Dedicated dials for exposure modes, a proper shutter button that feels tactile but quiet, and a mode dial within easy thumb reach mean you’re never more than a finger twitch away from creative adjustments. The SZ-16 iHS - while comfortable and straightforward - leans heavily on menus and lacks manual exposure modes altogether.

In essence: If you want photographic control at your fingertips, the E-PL7 already feels like a disciplined partner. If simplicity and slip-it-in-your-pocket ease win your heart, the SZ-16 iHS earns points.

Peering Inside: Sensor Technology and Image Quality

Here’s where things get juicy - not just pixel peeping, but real-world performance.

Olympus’s E-PL7 features a Micro Four Thirds sensor measuring 17.3 x 13 mm, with 16 megapixels to play with. That sensor size - about 225 mm² - is on the smaller side compared to full-frame but considerably larger than compact sensors. The SZ-16 iHS uses a tiny 1/2.3" sensor (6.17 x 4.55 mm), also 16 megapixels but spread much thinner across only 28 mm².

Putting these two sensors side-by-side on paper reveals the inevitable: bigger sensor, better image quality, especially in tricky lighting.

Technical testing backs this up. The E-PL7 scores a respectable 72 overall on DxOMark, with excellent color depth (22.7 bits) and dynamic range (12.4 EV). Low-light ISO stands at 873 for acceptable noise levels, which translates into usable prints and versatile shooting after sunset.

The SZ-16 iHS, unfortunately, doesn’t have DxO benchmarks, but from years of testing similar 1/2.3" compacts, it struggles with noise above ISO 400. The smaller sensor captures less light, leading to muddier shadows and less subtle color gradations - sacrifices you’ll notice in high-contrast scenes and indoor shooting without flash.

Resolution-wise, both manage 4608 x 3456 pixels, but detail retention beyond about 8x10 prints is noticeably superior on the E-PL7, courtesy of sensor size and processing.

The Viewfinder and Screen: Framing Your Shot

Mirrorless cameras are prized for their electronic viewfinders and tilting screens that encourage creative angles. The E-PL7 offers a 3" tilting touchscreen LCD at 1,037k dots - sharp, responsive, and intuitive - with optional purchase of an external electronic viewfinder (which some pros might miss). This flexibility supports everything from gleaming landscapes to low-level street shots without breaking your back.

The SZ-16 iHS sports a fixed 3" TFT LCD at a lower resolution (460k dots) and no touchscreen or viewfinder. That means squinting awkwardly in bright sunlight or relying on the rear screen alone, which is less than ideal for artistic compositions or fast action.

In brightness and clarity, the E-PL7's screen wins hands down, facilitating more accurate white balance previewing and menu navigation. The SZ-16 iHS, while serviceable for casual shooting, feels dated next to the mirrorless competitor.

Autofocus and Speed: Hunting the Moment

When it comes to capturing expressions, wildlife in motion, or a last-second sports maneuver, autofocus (AF) performance plays a starring role.

The E-PL7 employs a contrast-detection AF system with 81 focus points, including face detection and touch-to-focus capabilities - quite impressive for an entry-level mirrorless model. Continuous AF and tracking are present, though not top-tier by today’s standards; expect solid yet not lightning-fast acquisition in daylight scenarios.

The SZ-16 iHS relies solely on contrast detection with a less sophisticated system and an unknown number of AF points, lacking face detection autofocus or focus tracking continuity. Continuous AF and burst rates max out at 2 fps, far behind the E-PL7’s 8 fps capability.

In practical use, the Olympus E-PL7 nails focus locks on portraits and daylight street scenes quickly and with decent accuracy, especially when using the touchscreen AF. Wildlife enthusiasts will appreciate the faster burst and better AF tracking (even if it won’t rival pro-level systems).

The SZ-16 iHS is good for static subjects and casual snapshots, but odds are it will struggle with fast-moving subjects or fluctuating light.

Lens Ecosystem and Versatility

One massive advantage the E-PL7 holds is the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) mount. Olympus’s ecosystem offers over 100 lenses compatible - primes, zooms, macros, and specialty optics. This opens up a world of creative possibility from dreamy portraits with luscious bokeh to wide landscapes and tricky macros.

The SZ-16 iHS, on the other hand, is a fixed-lens camera with a massive 25-600 mm (equivalent) zoom - a staggering 24x optical zoom that’s excellent for telephoto convenience and travel versatility. But no lens changes means you’re locked in to the built-in f/3.0-6.9 aperture range, which limits low-light and creative depth of field control.

To put it simply: If you crave creative lens options and optical quality, the E-PL7 is your match. If you want an all-in-one travel companion without swapping glass, the SZ-16 iHS delivers with its extensive zoom reach.

Build Quality and Handling: Tough Enough for Adventures?

Neither camera boasts serious environmental sealing - no waterproof, dustproof, or freeze-proof certifications - but Olympus’s mirrorless bodies tend to build quality with more ruggedness and solid feel compared to ultra-light compacts.

The E-PL7’s magnesium alloy top plate and metal mount provide reassuring durability, while the SZ-16 iHS feels mostly plastic and insubstantial in the hand (though that also keeps weight down).

Battery life is modest for both: The E-PL7 provides about 350 shots per charge, respectable but requiring a spare if you plan extended outings. The SZ-16 iHS tops out at 220 shots, which can feel stingy after a day of zooming and adjusting.

Videography: Not the Main Event Here

Olympus’s E-PL7 offers Full HD 1080p at 30p video recording - standard for an entry-level mirrorless of its time - with H.264 compression. No 4K, but decent quality, and image stabilization helps smooth footage. Sadly, there’s no mic port, so audio capture is limited to the onboard mic, which usually means ambient noise and modest dialogue clarity.

The SZ-16 iHS maxes out at HD 720p video at 30 fps - not exactly cinematic - but adequate for quick family moments on the go.

Neither camera is designed for serious vloggers or filmmakers, but the E-PL7’s better sensor, stabilization, and manual controls give it a clear edge for casual video use.

Real World Testing Across Photography Disciplines

Enough specs and bits - how do these two perform when I put them through their paces in typical shooting environments?

Portraits: Skin Tones and Bokeh

The Olympus E-PL7’s larger sensor and interchangeable lens system allow for pleasing skin tone reproduction and natural bokeh when paired with fast primes. Face detection autofocus works well to keep eyes sharp - consistent with pro expectations for that price tier.

The SZ-16 iHS struggles more. The small sensor yields flatter colors and less smooth background separation. Plus, the maximum f/3 aperture can’t throw backgrounds into buttery blur even at full zoom.

Landscapes: Detail and Dynamic Range

The E-PL7's dynamic range shines, capturing nuanced shadows and highlights with excellent latitude thanks to its four-thirds sensor and color depth. That 16MP resolution is plenty for prints and cropping versatility.

The SZ-16 iHS renders landscapes with reasonable detail but can’t match the E-PL7 on tonal gradations or shadow rendition, especially in tricky lighting or backlit scenes.

Wildlife and Sports: Speed and Reach

Those who chase action will appreciate the Olympus E-PL7’s superior autofocus system and 8 fps burst shooting. Plus, the option to mount telephoto lenses tailored to wildlife or sports scenarios makes a huge difference.

The SZ-16 iHS offers an impressive 600mm reach but only 2 fps continuous shooting and basic AF; it’s more a “wait and snap” tool than a serious sports shooter.

Street Photography: Discretion and Agility

The compactness and weight of the SZ-16 iHS make it an inconspicuous street shooter - easy to carry, quick to zoom - but its slower AF and small sensor limit image quality.

The E-PL7, with its tilting touchscreen and better AF responsiveness, can shoot faster and with more creativity but is a little less pocketable.

Macro Photography

Neither camera specializes in macro. The E-PL7 benefits from compatible dedicated macro lenses offering precise focusing and decent magnification. The SZ-16 iHS can focus close at short focal lengths but lacks the precision and detail for serious macro enthusiasts.

Night and Astro Photography

The E-PL7’s sensor and ISO range (100-25,600 native) allow for more flexible night shooting. Although this isn’t a dedicated astro camera, shooting stars and cityscapes after dusk is feasible with a tripod and proper settings.

The SZ-16 iHS’s small sensor and limited ISO sensitivity limit its usefulness in low-light beyond casual snapshots.

Travel Photography: Versatility and Convenience

For the traveler wanting a lightweight package with one tool from wide to super-telephoto, the SZ-16 iHS’s enormous 24x zoom is hard to beat - no need to lug lenses or change gear mid-trip. Its compact size and lens cover add to travel readiness.

However, the E-PL7’s superior image quality, creative lens options, and effective stabilization make it better for travelers prioritizing visual excellence over ultimate portability.

Professional and Workflow Considerations

The E-PL7 supports RAW capture - a must for pros who want full control in post-processing. Its USB 2.0 connection and optional Wi-Fi enable basic file transfers, though not at blazing speeds.

The SZ-16 iHS offers no RAW support, limiting post-editing flexibility. Professional use beyond casual documentation is unlikely.

Olympus E PL7 front Olympus E PL7 screen back Olympus SZ 16 iHS front Olympus SZ 16 iHS screen back

In the sample gallery above, you can see the marked differences in color depth, detail, and bokeh between the two cameras. The E-PL7’s files render more naturally with richer colors and smoother tonal transitions.

Evaluating Scores and Value

From a purely clinical evaluation, the Olympus E-PL7 outperforms the SZ-16 iHS clearly on key metrics: image quality, autofocus, lens versatility, and usability.

While the SZ-16 iHS scores are unavailable on DxOmark, its small sensor and limited controls typically rank it below most interchangeable lens cameras, even entry-level models.

Considering genre-specific suitability, the chart above highlights the E-PL7’s strength in portraits, landscapes, and versatile travel. The SZ-16 iHS’s main advantages appear in casual travel and ease-of-use categories, especially when zoom reach is paramount.

Who Should Buy These Cameras?

Olympus E-PL7 Is Best For:

• Enthusiasts stepping up from smartphone or compact cameras seeking better image quality and manual control
• Photographers who want the flexibility of interchangeable lenses in a lightweight package
• Portrait and landscape shooters looking for respectable dynamic range and color depth
• Amateur wildlife or sports shooters wanting faster autofocus and burst rates on a budget
• Travelers willing to carry some weight for vastly improved image quality and creative options

Olympus SZ-16 iHS Is Best For:

• Casual shooters wanting an all-in-one camera with very long zoom for distant subjects
• Travelers and hikers prioritizing compactness and light carry weight over image quality
• Users who prefer point-and-shoot simplicity to fiddly manual controls or lens changes
• Budget buyers seeking a versatile zoom camera below $250 without professional aspirations

Final Thoughts: Olympus’s Two Faces of Photography

In the end, the Olympus E-PL7 and SZ-16 iHS aren’t really competitors - they’re different solutions for different photographers.

The E-PL7 serves as a confident entry-level mirrorless offering - putting well-rounded control, solid image quality, and interchangeable lens versatility at your command. You gain freedom to explore, experiment, and grow your craft. Yes, it’s a bit heavier and pricier, but for those who value image quality, manual modes, and creative flexibility, it’s a wise investment.

The SZ-16 iHS, by contrast, is Olympus’s answer to the traveler or casual snapper who needs a nimble, no-hassle camera with a jaw-dropping zoom. It’s low-fuss, easy to operate, and lightweight - the faithful companion for family trips, sightseeing, and quick wildlife glimpses, but with clear limits in image quality and control.

I’ve spent countless hours with thousands of cameras across genres. The E-PL7’s image files inspire confidence and creative potential; the SZ-16 iHS excels when simplicity and reach trump all else.

So take stock of your shooting style, budget, and aspirations. Want the joy and possibilities of manual photography? Embrace the E-PL7’s charm and capability. Need lightweight zoom power ready for any scenario? The SZ-16 iHS awaits.

Happy shooting!