Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic S1

Below, we will be reviewing the Olympus SP-590 UZ versus Panasonic S1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a noticeable gap between the sensor resolutions of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and S1 (24MP) and the SP-590 UZ (1/2.3") and S1 (Full frame) come with totally different sensor dimensions.

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The SP-590 UZ was unveiled 11 years earlier than the S1 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight into a detailed comparison, below is a concise summary of how the SP-590 UZ grades vs the S1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SP-590 UZ & Panasonic Lumix DC-S1. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery & Panasonic S1 Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera, you will have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-590 UZ enjoys outside measurements of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") having a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) while the Panasonic S1 has dimensions of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") with a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SP-590 UZ versus Panasonic S1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you use at that moment. Here is the front view measurement comparison of the SP-590 UZ compared to the S1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SP-590 UZ and S1 is 72 and 54 respectively.

More often than not, it's tough to visualise the gap between sensor measurements merely by reviewing a spec sheet. The visual below may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SP-590 UZ and S1.

As you can see, each of these cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The SP-590 UZ having a tinier sensor will make shooting shallow DOF more challenging and the Panasonic S1 will deliver extra detail having an extra 12MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The older SP-590 UZ is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.