Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Olympus VG-160

Here, we are reviewing the Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Olympus VG-160, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are designed by Olympus. The image resolution of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and the VG-160 (14MP) is very close and both cameras offer the identical sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SP-590 UZ was announced 4 years before the VG-160 which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Olympus VG-160 being a Compact camera.

Before diving right into a in depth comparison, here is a concise summary of how the SP-590 UZ scores vs the VG-160 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SP-590 UZ and Olympus VG-160. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery and Olympus VG-160 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to travel with your camera often, you are going to need to think about its weight and size. The Olympus SP-590 UZ features outside measurements of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") along with a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) while the Olympus VG-160 has specifications of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Olympus VG-160 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you select during that time. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the SP-590 UZ vs the VG-160.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SP-590 UZ and VG-160 is 72 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be tough to see the difference in sensor dimensions only by looking through technical specs. The picture here will offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-590 UZ and VG-160.

As you have seen, both cameras feature the identical sensor size but not the same megapixels. You should expect to see the Olympus VG-160 to result in greater detail with its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos way more aggressively. The more aged SP-590 UZ will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.