Olympus SZ-11 vs Panasonic LX5

Here, we are analyzing the Olympus SZ-11 versus Panasonic LX5, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a large gap among the image resolutions of the SZ-11 (14MP) and LX5 (10MP) and the SZ-11 (1/2.3") and LX5 (1/1.63") have totally different sensor measurements.

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The SZ-11 was introduced 4 months prior to the LX5 and they are of a similar age. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the SZ-11 scores against the LX5 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-11 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX5. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SZ-11 Gallery & Panasonic LX5 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera often, you're going to have to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-11 enjoys external measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LX5 has measurements of 110mm x 65mm x 43mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.7") having a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs).

Check the Olympus SZ-11 versus Panasonic LX5 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at that moment. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the SZ-11 and the LX5.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-11 and LX5 is 89 and 88 respectively.

Quite often, it can be difficult to see the difference in sensor sizes simply by checking out a spec sheet. The image below may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-11 and LX5.

As you can see, the 2 cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SZ-11 using its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field more challenging and the Olympus SZ-11 will provide extra detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics way more aggressively.