Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic FZ100

In this article, we are reviewing the Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic FZ100, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and the FZ100 (14MP) is fairly comparable and they enjoy the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SP-590 UZ was unveiled 18 months prior to the FZ100 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before getting straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a short summary of how the SP-590 UZ matches up against the FZ100 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SP-590 UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery & Panasonic FZ100 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to lug around your camera, you will need to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus SP-590 UZ has external measurements of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ100 has proportions of 124mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic FZ100 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are working with during that time. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the SP-590 UZ compared to the FZ100.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SP-590 UZ and FZ100 is 72 and 67 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to visualize the difference in sensor measurements just by checking out specs. The visual here might give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SP-590 UZ and FZ100.

All in all, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different MP. You can anticipate the Panasonic FZ100 to show more detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics far more aggressively. The older SP-590 UZ will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.