Olympus SP-610UZ vs Panasonic FH22

In this article, we are evaluating the Olympus SP-610UZ and Panasonic FH22, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SP-610UZ (14MP) and the FH22 (14MP) is fairly comparable and they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SP-610UZ was unveiled 13 months later than the FH22 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a more detailed comparison, below is a simple summary of how the SP-610UZ grades against the FH22 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SP-610UZ and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH22. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-610UZ Gallery and Panasonic FH22 Gallery.

If you're going to carry your camera regularly, you need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-610UZ comes with external dimensions of 107mm x 73mm x 73mm (4.2" x 2.9" x 2.9") and a weight of 405 grams (0.89 lbs) and the Panasonic FH22 has dimensions of 100mm x 57mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") with a weight of 170 grams (0.37 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SP-610UZ and Panasonic FH22 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the SP-610UZ compared to the FH22.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SP-610UZ and FH22 is 79 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it is very hard to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing only by seeing specs. The graphic below should give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SP-610UZ and FH22.

All in all, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing and the identical resolution and you should expect comparable quality of photos although you will need to take the release date of the cameras into account. The more modern SP-610UZ should have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.