Olympus SP-800 UZ vs Panasonic FS42

In this article, we are evaluating the Olympus SP-800 UZ versus Panasonic FS42, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Ultracompact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a noticeable gap among the image resolutions of the SP-800 UZ (14MP) and FS42 (10MP) and the SP-800 UZ (1/2.3") and FS42 (1/2.5") enjoy totally different sensor sizes.

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The SP-800 UZ was introduced 10 months later than the FS42 so they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-800 UZ being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FS42 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the SP-800 UZ grades against the FS42 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SP-800 UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS42. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus SP-800 UZ Gallery & Panasonic FS42 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera frequently, you'll need to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus SP-800 UZ has exterior measurements of 110mm x 90mm x 91mm (4.3" x 3.5" x 3.6") along with a weight of 455 grams (1.00 lbs) while the Panasonic FS42 has sizing of 98mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 132 grams (0.29 lbs).

Check the Olympus SP-800 UZ versus Panasonic FS42 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are using during that time. The following is the front view scale comparison of the SP-800 UZ versus the FS42.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SP-800 UZ and FS42 is 69 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to see the difference in sensor sizing merely by researching technical specs. The photograph below may offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-800 UZ and FS42.

As you have seen, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SP-800 UZ with its larger sensor will make getting shallow DOF simpler and the Olympus SP-800 UZ will provide you with more detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will let you crop photos far more aggressively. The newer SP-800 UZ will have an advantage in sensor innovation.