Olympus SZ-11 vs Pentax X70

Here is a in-depth analysis of the Olympus SZ-11 and Pentax X70, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by companies Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the SZ-11 (14MP) and the X70 (12MP) is very well matched and they enjoy the exact same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SZ-11 was revealed 2 years later than the X70 and that is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SZ-11 being a Compact camera and the Pentax X70 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving straight into a complete comparison, below is a short summation of how the SZ-11 grades against the X70 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-11 and Pentax X70. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-11 Gallery and Pentax X70 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-11 enjoys exterior 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 Pentax X70 has sizing of 110mm x 83mm x 90mm (4.3" x 3.3" x 3.5") accompanied by a weight of 410 grams (0.90 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-11 and Pentax X70 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is the front view sizing comparison of the SZ-11 compared to the X70.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-11 and X70 is 89 and 71 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to envision the difference between sensor sizing just by checking a spec sheet. The visual underneath might give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-11 and X70.

As you can see, the two cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements but not the same resolution. You should expect to see the Olympus SZ-11 to resolve greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop images much more aggressively. The fresher SZ-11 is going to have a benefit in sensor innovation.