Olympus SZ-11 vs Panasonic ZR1

Below, we are evaluating the Olympus SZ-11 and Panasonic ZR1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-11 (14MP) and the ZR1 (12MP) is very comparable and they feature the exact same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-11 was manufactured 2 years after the ZR1 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving in to a in depth comparison, below is a concise summary of how the SZ-11 grades against the ZR1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-11 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-11 Gallery & Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry around your camera, you need to factor its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-11 provides exterior 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) while the Panasonic ZR1 has specifications of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SZ-11 and Panasonic ZR1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the SZ-11 versus the ZR1.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-11 and ZR1 is 89 and 94 respectively.

Generally, its hard to see the gap in sensor sizes merely by seeing technical specs. The picture underneath will help give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-11 and ZR1.

As you have seen, the two cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements but not the same megapixels. You can expect to see the Olympus SZ-11 to show extra detail due to its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop images much more aggressively. The more modern SZ-11 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.