Olympus SP-600 UZ vs Sony HX1

On this page, we are contrasting the Olympus SP-600 UZ and Sony HX1, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Olympus and Sony. There is a considerable difference among the sensor resolutions of the SP-600 UZ (12MP) and HX1 (9MP) and the SP-600 UZ (1/2.3") and HX1 (1/2.4") offer totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The SP-600 UZ was unveiled 10 months after the HX1 so they are of a similar age. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus SP-600 UZ being a Compact camera and the Sony HX1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the SP-600 UZ grades vs the HX1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SP-600 UZ & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-600 UZ Gallery & Sony HX1 Gallery.

For those who are going to travel with your camera regularly, you'll have to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus SP-600 UZ comes with exterior dimensions of 110mm x 90mm x 91mm (4.3" x 3.5" x 3.6") and a weight of 455 grams (1.00 lbs) whilst the Sony HX1 has measurements of 115mm x 83mm x 92mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 3.6") with a weight of 544 grams (1.20 lbs).

See the Olympus SP-600 UZ and Sony HX1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are using during that time. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the SP-600 UZ versus the HX1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the SP-600 UZ and HX1 is 69 and 67 respectively.

Generally, it is tough to see the contrast in sensor dimensions only by checking out a spec sheet. The picture here will offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the SP-600 UZ and HX1.

Clearly, the 2 cameras have different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The SP-600 UZ having a larger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Olympus SP-600 UZ will show more detail having an extra 3MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics a bit more aggressively. The newer SP-600 UZ is going to have an edge with regard to sensor technology.