Olympus SP-600 UZ vs Panasonic S5

In this article, we will be looking at the Olympus SP-600 UZ and Panasonic S5, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a considerable difference among the resolutions of the SP-600 UZ (12MP) and S5 (24MP) and the SP-600 UZ (1/2.3") and S5 (Full frame) enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

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The SP-600 UZ was brought out 11 years before the S5 which is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-600 UZ being a Compact camera and the Panasonic S5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving in to a complete comparison, below is a quick summary of how the SP-600 UZ grades versus the S5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SP-600 UZ & Panasonic Lumix DC-S5. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-600 UZ Gallery & Panasonic S5 Gallery.

When you are going to travel with your camera regularly, you will have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-600 UZ has got physical measurements of 110mm x 90mm x 91mm (4.3" x 3.5" x 3.6") having a weight of 455 grams (1.00 lbs) and the Panasonic S5 has dimensions of 133mm x 97mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") and a weight of 714 grams (1.57 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SP-600 UZ and Panasonic S5 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select during that time. The following is the front view size comparison of the SP-600 UZ against the S5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the SP-600 UZ and S5 is 69 and 60 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to envision the contrast in sensor dimensions merely by viewing specs. The image below might offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-600 UZ and S5.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The SP-600 UZ due to its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF harder and the Panasonic S5 will result in more detail having its extra 12 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged SP-600 UZ will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.