Olympus SP-610UZ vs Panasonic SZ5

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Olympus SP-610UZ vs Panasonic SZ5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SP-610UZ (14MP) and the SZ5 (14MP) is fairly well matched and they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SP-610UZ was manufactured 18 months prior to the SZ5 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting straight into a complete comparison, below is a brief summation of how the SP-610UZ grades versus the SZ5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SP-610UZ and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The entire galleries are available at Olympus SP-610UZ Gallery and Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you will want to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-610UZ features outer measurements of 107mm x 73mm x 73mm (4.2" x 2.9" x 2.9") with a weight of 405 grams (0.89 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ5 has dimensions of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") with a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

See the Olympus SP-610UZ vs Panasonic SZ5 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you select at that time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the SP-610UZ compared to the SZ5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SP-610UZ and SZ5 is 79 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to imagine the difference between sensor measurements merely by looking at a spec sheet. The graphic below may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-610UZ and SZ5.

Clearly, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing and the identical MP so you should expect similar quality of photos however you would want to factor the production date of the products into consideration. The older SP-610UZ is going to be disadvantaged in sensor tech.