Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic ZR1

The following is a detailed overview of the Olympus SP-590 UZ versus Panasonic ZR1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and the ZR1 (12MP) is pretty similar and they feature the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SP-590 UZ was introduced 6 months prior to the ZR1 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera.

Before getting in to a more detailed comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the SP-590 UZ matches up vs the ZR1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery and Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

For those who are planning to travel with your camera often, you'll need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-590 UZ has got external dimensions of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") and a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) and the Panasonic ZR1 has dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SP-590 UZ versus Panasonic ZR1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you select at that time. Here is the front view measurement comparison of the SP-590 UZ vs the ZR1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the SP-590 UZ and ZR1 is 72 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is tough to imagine the difference between sensor dimensions merely by reviewing a spec sheet. The image below will help offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SP-590 UZ and ZR1.

As you can see, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing and the same exact MP therefore you should expect similar quality of photos but you would want to take the release date of the products into consideration.