Olympus SP-800 UZ vs Panasonic ZS1

On this page, we will be contrasting the Olympus SP-800 UZ and Panasonic ZS1, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There is a sizeable difference between the resolutions of the SP-800 UZ (14MP) and ZS1 (10MP) and the SP-800 UZ (1/2.3") and ZS1 (1/2.5") offer different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The SP-800 UZ was launched 9 months later than the ZS1 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the SP-800 UZ matches up vs the ZS1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SP-800 UZ and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-800 UZ Gallery and Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry your camera often, you'll need to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus SP-800 UZ offers exterior dimensions of 110mm x 90mm x 91mm (4.3" x 3.5" x 3.6") with a weight of 455 grams (1.00 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS1 has measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

See the Olympus SP-800 UZ and Panasonic ZS1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have at the time. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the SP-800 UZ compared to the ZS1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the SP-800 UZ and ZS1 is 69 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be tough to imagine the difference between sensor sizing merely by reviewing technical specs. The graphic here should give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SP-800 UZ and ZS1.

As you can tell, each of the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SP-800 UZ featuring a bigger sensor is going to make getting bokeh less difficult and the Olympus SP-800 UZ will deliver greater detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs a bit more aggressively. The fresher SP-800 UZ provides an advantage with regard to sensor tech.