Olympus SZ-11 vs Samsung NX5

In this article, we will be matching up the Olympus SZ-11 and Samsung NX5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Samsung. The image resolution of the SZ-11 (14MP) and the NX5 (15MP) is pretty close but the SZ-11 (1/2.3") and NX5 (APS-C) possess different sensor size.

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The SZ-11 was released 15 months later than the NX5 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-11 being a Compact camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a short highlight of how the SZ-11 matches up against the NX5 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-11 and Samsung NX5. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SZ-11 Gallery and Samsung NX5 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you will need to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-11 features physical measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX5 has proportions of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") having a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SZ-11 and Samsung NX5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you use at that moment. Here is the front view over all size comparison of the SZ-11 versus the NX5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-11 and NX5 is 89 and 80 respectively.

Often, it's hard to visualize the difference in sensor measurements simply by researching specifications. The photograph underneath will help offer you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-11 and NX5.

To sum up, the two cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The SZ-11 because of its smaller sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Samsung NX5 will result in more detail as a result of its extra 1 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more recent SZ-11 provides an advantage with regard to sensor tech.