Olympus SZ-10 vs Panasonic FP1

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Olympus SZ-10 vs Panasonic FP1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Ultracompact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ-10 (14MP) and the FP1 (12MP) is pretty similar and they come with the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-10 was announced 14 months later than the FP1 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-10 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FP1 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before going in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the SZ-10 scores vs the FP1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-10 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-10 Gallery and Panasonic FP1 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera, you need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-10 features outside dimensions of 106mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.5") with a weight of 215 grams (0.47 lbs) and the Panasonic FP1 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") having a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs).

Examine the Olympus SZ-10 vs Panasonic FP1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at that time. Following is the front view overall size comparison of the SZ-10 against the FP1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-10 and FP1 is 90 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to picture the difference between sensor measurements only by reading technical specs. The photograph here should give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-10 and FP1.

As you have seen, both of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Olympus SZ-10 to offer extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more modern SZ-10 provides an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.