Olympus SZ-11 vs Panasonic ZS50

Here, we will be evaluating the Olympus SZ-11 and Panasonic ZS50, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-11 (14MP) and the ZS50 (12MP) is pretty comparable and both cameras provide the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ-11 was announced 4 years before the ZS50 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a detailed comparison, here is a concise overview of how the SZ-11 grades against the ZS50 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-11 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SZ-11 Gallery & Panasonic ZS50 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to travel with your camera often, you need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-11 provides outside dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS50 has dimensions of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-11 and Panasonic ZS50 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose during that time. Here is a front view scale comparison of the SZ-11 compared to the ZS50.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-11 and ZS50 is 89 and 90 respectively.

Oftentimes, its hard to see the contrast in sensor dimensions only by going through technical specs. The pic below might offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-11 and ZS50.

As you have seen, both of those cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same resolution. You can expect the Olympus SZ-11 to show greater detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The more aged SZ-11 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.