Olympus SP-610UZ vs Sony RX1

Following is a extensive review of the Olympus SP-610UZ versus Sony RX1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Sony. There is a sizable difference among the resolutions of the SP-610UZ (14MP) and RX1 (24MP) and the SP-610UZ (1/2.3") and RX1 (Full frame) feature different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The SP-610UZ was released 3 years earlier than the RX1 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-610UZ being a Compact camera and the Sony RX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick summation of how the SP-610UZ grades against the RX1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SP-610UZ & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SP-610UZ Gallery & Sony RX1 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera, you'll have to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus SP-610UZ has exterior measurements of 107mm x 73mm x 73mm (4.2" x 2.9" x 2.9") accompanied by a weight of 405 grams (0.89 lbs) whilst the Sony RX1 has proportions of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SP-610UZ versus Sony RX1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you use at that time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the SP-610UZ against the RX1.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the SP-610UZ and RX1 is 79 and 79 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to imagine the gap in sensor sizes merely by seeing technical specs. The picture below may offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-610UZ and RX1.

As you can tell, each of the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SP-610UZ due to its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF harder and the Sony RX1 will produce more detail as a result of its extra 10MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more aged SP-610UZ will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.