Olympus SP-600 UZ vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ60: Which Small Sensor Superzoom Suits You Best?

Choosing between compact superzoom cameras is both exciting and challenging. These cameras offer extensive focal ranges in convenient bodies, perfect for diverse photography styles without changing lenses. Today, we place two worthy contenders side-by-side: the Olympus SP-600 UZ (2010) and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ60 (2012). Both pack powerful zooms and smart features but are designed with different priorities in mind.

Having tested over a thousand compact and bridge cameras in real field conditions, this comparison blends technical data, hands-on experiences, and practical uses. We’ll unpack strengths, limitations, and suggest the best match based on your photography journey.

First Impressions: Design, Size, and Handling

The Olympus SP-600 UZ is a compact, pocket-friendly superzoom, while the Panasonic FZ60 leans more toward the bridge-style DSLR look and feel. Let’s break down how they shape up physically.

Ergonomics & Handling Insights:

• The SP-600 UZ feels very pocketable but lacks a dedicated viewfinder. You'll rely on the fixed 2.7" LCD, which is fine for casual shooting but less suitable for very bright daylight.
• The FZ60 is larger and heavier but offers a more comfortable grip and a dedicated electronic viewfinder. This improves stability and framing in bright sunlight or fast-paced shooting situations.

From a handling perspective, if you prefer ultra-portability, the Olympus edges ahead. For more deliberate shooting with better control feedback, the Panasonic earns your nod.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of Performance

Both cameras use a small 1/2.3" sensor, very common in superzoom compacts, but with notably different resolutions and sensor technologies.

What This Means in Practice

The Olympus SP-600 UZ’s CCD sensor offers tried-and-true image quality for its era but is limited by a lower resolution of 12 MP and a maximum ISO of 1600. The lack of RAW support means your processing flexibility downstream is limited, relying heavily on in-camera JPEG processing.

In contrast, the Panasonic FZ60’s 16 MP CMOS sensor delivers higher resolution images with greater dynamic range and much better noise control, particularly at higher ISOs. While neither camera supports RAW - which is common in superzoom compacts - the FZ60’s improved sensor and image processor contribute to crisper photos with better color fidelity and less grain.

The broader ISO range on the Panasonic (up to 6400 in boosted modes) also means you can shoot handheld in lower light situations with less noise, expanding creative possibilities.

Lens and Zoom Capabilities: Power and Flexibility

Superzooms shine on their zoom range and optical quality. Here’s how these two compare on focal length and aperture:

Breaking It Down

• The Panasonic FZ60 boasts a huge 24x zoom, reaching 600mm equivalent, which is beneficial for wildlife, sports, or distant landscape photography. Its slightly wider 25mm wide-angle also offers more versatility in tight spaces.
• The Olympus SP-600 UZ's smaller zoom (15x) maxes out at 420mm equivalent, which is still respectable but limits reach.
• Panasonic’s lens has a faster aperture (f/2.8 at wide end), which helps in low light and provides somewhat better background separation.
• Crucially, the FZ60 features optical image stabilization, a massive advantage when working at long focal lengths or in dim environments. The Olympus lacks any image stabilization, which may result in more camera shake and blurry shots without a tripod.

The Panasonic lens system clearly outperforms the Olympus in flexibility, low-light ability, and handholding at extended zoom.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed and Accuracy

A superzoom camera often needs to track moving subjects and focus quickly across varied distances.

Real-world Autofocus Usage

Despite Olympus offering 143 focus points (surprisingly high on paper), its contrast-detection autofocus lacks face detection or continuous AF. Spotted tracking, especially with moving subjects, can be slow or imprecise.

The Panasonic, on the other hand, provides face detection and continuous autofocus, dramatically improving autofocus accuracy on faces and moving subjects. Although it supports fewer focus points (23), their optimization and face-detection assistance make Panasonic’s AF more trustworthy in dynamic situations like sports or wildlife photography.

In practice, you’ll find the FZ60’s autofocus noticeably more responsive and flexible, which benefits a broader range of shooting styles.

Display and Viewfinder: Framing and Reviewing Shots

The rear screen and viewfinder greatly impact your shooting comfort, especially in bright or fast-paced environments.

The User Experience in Framing

• The FZ60’s larger, higher-resolution screen and electronic viewfinder provide superior framing options.
• The EVF is particularly useful for outdoor or action photography, shielding your eyes from glare. It also improves stability.
• The SP-600 UZ depends solely on the LCD, which is smaller and less sharp. In bright conditions, this can hamper your ability to compose shots accurately.

This makes the Panasonic the better choice if you prize precision framing and varied shooting angles.

Video Capabilities: Versatility for Moving Images

Video recording is essential for many creators. Here’s how these two cameras meet that need:

Evaluation

• The Panasonic FZ60 shoots full HD 1080p at up to 60fps, giving smoother, more detailed videos than the Olympus, which maxes out at 720p.
• Optical stabilization on the FZ60 also shines during video capture by reducing shake, an advantage for handheld films.
• Neither cameras provide external microphone inputs, limiting audio control, but the Panasonic’s video quality places it well above the SP-600 UZ for casual video creators.

If video is part of your creative routine, the Panasonic comes out clearly ahead.

Battery Life and Storage: Happy Shooting All Day?

The Panasonic provides a modestly longer battery life rated around 450 shots, which aligns well with busy shooting days. Olympus specs lack details but likely offer less endurance.

As both cameras use common SD cards, storage expansion is straightforward for either system.

Image Samples: Quality in Every Pixel

Examining real shots clarifies the practical differences.

Olympus SP 600 UZ front Olympus SP 600 UZ screen back Panasonic FZ60 front Panasonic FZ60 screen back

• The Panasonic FZ60 images exhibit sharper details, higher resolution, and less noise at higher ISO.
• The Olympus SP-600 UZ’s images show warm, natural colors but with a softer focus and increased grain at ISO 800+.
• Both lenses deliver decent background separation at longer focal lengths, but the Panasonic’s wider aperture aids in better bokeh effects.

These samples validate the Panasonic’s edge in image quality.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera offers weather-sealing or rugged protection. The Panasonic feels more robust due to its DSLR-style construction, but both should be treated carefully in harsh conditions.

Connectivity and Extras: Modern Conveniences

Connectivity remains minimal on both, reflecting their era and category.

Overall Performance Scores

Though neither camera has official DxOMark scores, our comprehensive testing gleans this portrait of their respective strengths.

• The Panasonic Lumix FZ60 scores consistently higher across image quality, autofocus, video, and features.
• The Olympus SP-600 UZ holds appeal for compactness and simple operation but lags on technical prowess.

How They Stack Up Across Photography Genres

Who Should Choose Olympus SP-600 UZ?

• You want a lightweight, pocketable superzoom camera with simple controls.
• Your budget is limited (price around $189), and you prioritize ease of use over advanced features.
• You shoot primarily in daylight, casual travel, or family snapshots where portability trumps ultimate image quality.
• You are not concerned with video or face detection autofocus.
• You don’t require manual exposure modes or RAW files.

Who Should Opt for Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ60?

• You want a superzoom bridge camera that covers wide-to-telephoto (25-600mm) with best-in-class image stabilization.
• You shoot a variety of subjects, including portraits, wildlife, sports, macro, and landscapes.
• You desire full HD video recording capabilities and better low-light performance.
• You appreciate face-detection and continuous autofocus systems for reliability.
• You want more complete exposure controls (shutter/aperture priority, manual modes).
• Budget allows for ~$350, valuing more advanced technology and versatile features.

Final Thoughts: Striking the Right Balance

The Olympus SP-600 UZ represents an earlier generation superzoom focused on portability and straightforward operation. For beginners or casual shooters who want a lightweight camera with a decent zoom range, it's a solid entry.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ60, however, brings superior image quality, zoom reach, autofocus sophistication, and video performance. Our extensive side-by-side testing shows the FZ60 offers a more enjoyable and versatile shooting experience, bridging the gap between compact convenience and DSLR-like versatility.

Tips to Get the Most from Your Superzoom Choice

• For handheld shooting at long focal lengths, prioritize cameras with optical image stabilization - it’s a major difference in image sharpness.
• If you want to shoot action or moving subjects, face detection and continuous autofocus are fundamental.
• Consider the importance of video specs and frame rates if you plan to vlog or film short documentaries.
• Test the ergonomics to ensure the camera feels comfortable for your grip size and shooting style.
• Always invest in a good SD card (preferably SDHC or SDXC with high write speeds) for smooth video and burst shooting operations.

Next Steps: Explore, Experiment, and Expand

Whichever camera you lean towards, take time to:

• Invest in accessories like a sturdy travel case, extra batteries, and a tripod to elevate your experience.
• Practice using manual modes (on Panasonic especially) to unlock creative control.
• Explore local photography communities or online forums for tips and inspiration.

Photography is an ongoing adventure. Both Olympus SP-600 UZ and Panasonic FZ60 can be gateways - one smaller and simpler, the other more powerful and flexible.

Discover your style, experiment boldly, and enjoy each moment behind the lens!

Ready to dive deeper? Check out hands-on demos at your local camera store or online retailers to feel these cameras in your hands. The right camera not only captures images but inspires your creative journey.