Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic LZ20

In this article, we will be evaluating the Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic LZ20, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a crucial difference among the sensor resolutions of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and LZ20 (16MP) but they feature the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SP-590 UZ was brought out 4 years earlier than the LZ20 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before we go straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the SP-590 UZ grades vs the LZ20 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery and Panasonic LZ20 Gallery.

If you're planning to lug around your camera, you will have to think about its weight and size. The Olympus SP-590 UZ provides exterior measurements of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") and a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LZ20 has specifications of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") accompanied by a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic LZ20 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose during that time. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the SP-590 UZ versus the LZ20.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the SP-590 UZ and LZ20 is 72 and 71 respectively.

Usually, its hard to see the difference in sensor measurements only by seeing specs. The photograph underneath may provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-590 UZ and LZ20.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Panasonic LZ20 to produce extra detail having its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The older SP-590 UZ will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.