Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic ZS20

In this article, we are analyzing the Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic ZS20, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is fairly close and they use the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SP-590 UZ was announced 4 years earlier than the ZS20 which is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the SP-590 UZ grades versus the ZS20 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SP-590 UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery & Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

When you are going to carry around your camera, you should consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus SP-590 UZ offers physical measurements of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") having a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS20 has measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic ZS20 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you choose at that time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the SP-590 UZ against the ZS20.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SP-590 UZ and ZS20 is 72 and 92 respectively.

Normally, its tough to picture the gap in sensor sizes only by viewing specs. The pic here should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SP-590 UZ and ZS20.

All in all, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different megapixels. You can anticipate the Panasonic ZS20 to result in greater detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images far more aggressively. The more aged SP-590 UZ will be behind in sensor tech.