Olympus SZ-10 vs Sony RX1

Let's look more closely at the Olympus SZ-10 vs Sony RX1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. There is a crucial difference between the sensor resolutions of the SZ-10 (14MP) and RX1 (24MP) and the SZ-10 (1/2.3") and RX1 (Full frame) boast different sensor sizes.

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The SZ-10 was unveiled 24 months earlier than the RX1 which makes them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-10 being a Compact camera and the Sony RX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the SZ-10 grades against the RX1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-10 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-10 Gallery and Sony RX1 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-10 has got physical dimensions of 106mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 215 grams (0.47 lbs) while the Sony RX1 has sizing of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

See the Olympus SZ-10 vs Sony RX1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you select during that time. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the SZ-10 against the RX1.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-10 and RX1 is 90 and 79 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to visualize the difference between sensor sizes simply by reading specs. The image underneath should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-10 and RX1.

All in all, the 2 cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SZ-10 using its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow depth of field trickier and the Sony RX1 will offer extra detail having an extra 10 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots more aggressively. The more aged SZ-10 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.