Olympus SH-50 vs Panasonic ZS20

Below is a in depth analysis of the Olympus SH-50 versus Panasonic ZS20, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SH-50 (16MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is fairly well matched and they come with the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SH-50 was introduced 9 months later than the ZS20 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving through a more detailed comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the SH-50 scores versus the ZS20 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SH-50 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SH-50 Gallery and Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera regularly, you are going to need to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus SH-50 offers external dimensions of 112mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS20 has sizing of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check the Olympus SH-50 versus Panasonic ZS20 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you select at that time. The following is the front view over all size comparison of the SH-50 versus the ZS20.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the SH-50 and ZS20 is 88 and 92 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to see the gap between sensor measurements just by checking specifications. The photograph below may give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SH-50 and ZS20.

To sum up, the 2 cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same MP. You should anticipate the Olympus SH-50 to give you more detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The more recent SH-50 will have an edge in sensor tech.