Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic FH8

On this page, we are analyzing the Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic FH8, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Olympus and Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference between the image resolutions of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and FH8 (16MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SP-590 UZ was unveiled 4 years earlier than the FH8 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic FH8 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a in depth comparison, here is a concise summary of how the SP-590 UZ matches up vs the FH8 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH8. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery and Panasonic FH8 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to lug around your camera often, you will need to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus SP-590 UZ has exterior dimensions of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) while the Panasonic FH8 has sizing of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") along with a weight of 123 grams (0.27 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic FH8 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select at the time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the SP-590 UZ against the FH8.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SP-590 UZ and FH8 is 72 and 96 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to envision the contrast between sensor measurements just by reviewing specifications. The photograph below may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SP-590 UZ and FH8.

Plainly, both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but not the same megapixels. You should anticipate the Panasonic FH8 to deliver more detail having an extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop images more aggressively. The older SP-590 UZ is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.