Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic LZ40

Below, we will be looking at the Olympus SP-590 UZ versus Panasonic LZ40, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There is a considerable difference among the sensor resolutions of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and LZ40 (20MP) but they possess the exact same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SP-590 UZ was unveiled 6 years earlier than the LZ40 which is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras come with the identical body type (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before we go straight into a detailed comparison, below is a simple summary of how the SP-590 UZ matches up vs the LZ40 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SP-590 UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery & Panasonic LZ40 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to travel with your camera, you will have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-590 UZ comes with outer measurements 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 LZ40 has dimensions of 126mm x 87mm x 94mm (5.0" x 3.4" x 3.7") and a weight of 524 grams (1.16 lbs).

Check the Olympus SP-590 UZ versus Panasonic LZ40 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are using at the time. The following is the front view size comparison of the SP-590 UZ and the LZ40.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SP-590 UZ and LZ40 is 72 and 67 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to see the gap in sensor dimensions merely by looking through a spec sheet. The image here will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-590 UZ and LZ40.

Clearly, each of the cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit not the same megapixels. You can count on the Panasonic LZ40 to result in greater detail having an extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures somewhat more aggressively. The more aged SP-590 UZ will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.