Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic SZ8

Here, we will be contrasting the Olympus SP-590 UZ versus Panasonic SZ8, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference among the sensor resolutions of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and SZ8 (16MP) but both cameras boast the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SP-590 UZ was released 6 years earlier than the SZ8 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight to a thorough comparison, here is a short summary of how the SP-590 UZ matches up versus the SZ8 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery and Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera regularly, you will need to factor its weight and size. The Olympus SP-590 UZ features external 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 SZ8 has specifications of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Examine the Olympus SP-590 UZ versus Panasonic SZ8 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at the time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the SP-590 UZ versus the SZ8.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the SP-590 UZ and SZ8 is 72 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to visualize the contrast in sensor sizes only by researching technical specs. The image below might offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SP-590 UZ and SZ8.

As you have seen, both cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit different megapixels. You should count on the Panasonic SZ8 to result in extra detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures way more aggressively. The more aged SP-590 UZ will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.