Olympus SZ-11 vs Panasonic FX78

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Olympus SZ-11 and Panasonic FX78, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-11 (14MP) and the FX78 (12MP) is relatively well matched and they possess the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-11 was released 7 months later than the FX78 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a full comparison, below is a simple summary of how the SZ-11 scores versus the FX78 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-11 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-11 Gallery and Panasonic FX78 Gallery.

In case you're planning to lug around your camera frequently, you're going to have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-11 has outside dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FX78 has dimensions of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SZ-11 and Panasonic FX78 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have chosen during that time. Below is the front view overall size comparison of the SZ-11 versus the FX78.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-11 and FX78 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to imagine the difference between sensor measurements simply by checking a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will help give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-11 and FX78.

As you can see, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You should count on the Olympus SZ-11 to resolve greater detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots far more aggressively. The newer SZ-11 should have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.