Olympus SZ-11 vs Panasonic GX850

Let's take a deeper look at the Olympus SZ-11 versus Panasonic GX850, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-11 (14MP) and the GX850 (16MP) is very close but the SZ-11 (1/2.3") and GX850 (Four Thirds) offer totally different sensor sizing.

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The SZ-11 was unveiled 6 years prior to the GX850 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SZ-11 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GX850 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick summary of how the SZ-11 matches up versus the GX850 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-11 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX850. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-11 Gallery and Panasonic GX850 Gallery.

If you are going to travel with your camera frequently, you will need to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-11 features external measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic GX850 has sizing of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-11 versus Panasonic GX850 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have chosen at that time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the SZ-11 versus the GX850.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-11 and GX850 is 89 and 90 respectively.

More often than not, it is very difficult to see the difference in sensor dimensions only by researching specifications. The picture below will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-11 and GX850.

Plainly, both cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The SZ-11 using its smaller sensor will make getting shallower DOF more difficult and the Panasonic GX850 will render extra detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more aged SZ-11 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.