Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic ZS45

Below, we will be looking at the Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic ZS45, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a noticeable difference among the image resolutions of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and ZS45 (16MP) but they enjoy the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SP-590 UZ was unveiled 7 years earlier than the ZS45 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS45 being a Compact camera.

Before getting through a more detailed comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the SP-590 UZ scores vs the ZS45 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SP-590 UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery & Panasonic ZS45 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-590 UZ provides outer measurements of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") having a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS45 has dimensions of 108mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs).

See the Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic ZS45 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. Following is the front view size comparison of the SP-590 UZ compared to the ZS45.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SP-590 UZ and ZS45 is 72 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to visualize the difference in sensor sizes simply by checking out a spec sheet. The image underneath should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-590 UZ and ZS45.

As you can see, both of these cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit different MP. You can expect the Panasonic ZS45 to show extra detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop photographs somewhat more aggressively. The more aged SP-590 UZ will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.