Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic FH2

Here is a detailed analysis of the Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic FH2, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and the FH2 (14MP) is very comparable and both cameras provide the same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SP-590 UZ was announced 24 months before the FH2 making them a generation apart from one another. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic FH2 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the SP-590 UZ matches up against the FH2 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SP-590 UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH2. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery & Panasonic FH2 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus SP-590 UZ has external dimensions of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") with a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) while the Panasonic FH2 has proportions of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") having a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic FH2 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at that time. Here is a front view size comparison of the SP-590 UZ versus the FH2.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SP-590 UZ and FH2 is 72 and 96 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing purely by seeing specs. The photograph below should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SP-590 UZ and FH2.

All in all, both of those cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You can expect to see the Panasonic FH2 to produce greater detail with its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos more aggressively. The older SP-590 UZ will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.