Olympus SZ-11 vs Samsung WB850F: A Detailed Comparison of Two Superzoom Compacts

Choosing the right superzoom compact camera can be tricky, especially when faced with two rather different models like the Olympus SZ-11 and Samsung WB850F. Both pack big zoom ranges and decent specs on paper, yet they serve quite different users and photography styles. I’ve spent many hours putting these two through their paces, testing everything from image quality to autofocus, and I’m here to share everything you need to know before deciding which suits your needs.

Let’s dive beyond just specs and into real-world usability, image quality, and value - so you can pick the camera that'll truly work for your photography.

When Size and Handling Matter - Ergonomics & Control

First impressions count, and this is where both cameras reflect their design priorities.

The Olympus SZ-11 embraces a compact, pocketable body with a fairly chunky grip that gives you confidence, especially when shooting with the full 20x zoom extended. Its dimensions - 106 x 69 x 40 mm - make it thicker but comfortable to hold for extended periods.

The Samsung WB850F, meanwhile, is a bit longer but slimmer and lighter (109 x 62 x 25 mm), favoring portability. This makes it easier to slip into smaller bags or even a jacket pocket but with a trade-off: handling precision isn't quite as secure.

Watch below to see the physical size differences side-by-side:

Beyond size, the SZ-11's buttons are spaced with photographers in mind - an important factor if you prefer manual-ish control without diving into menus. The WB850F opts for a sleeker top surface but maintains larger, clearly labeled dials for shutter priority and aperture priority modes.

A top-down comparison reveals Samsung’s cleaner, simpler layout contrasts with Olympus' more traditional photographic control cluster:

My take: If you prioritize a camera that feels secure in the hand and offers easy physical access to key shooting functions, Olympus edges out here. But if you want something lighter for travel or street-style candid shooting, Samsung’s slimmer design holds appeal.

Sensor Secrets and Image Quality - Breaking Down the Tech

Both cameras sport a 1/2.3" sensor, a common choice for compact superzooms, but technology differences here influence image output dramatically.

The SZ-11 uses a 14MP CCD sensor, a trusted technology but one that's slower and less effective in low light. The WB850F goes with a 16MP BSI-CMOS sensor - the more modern choice offering better sensitivity and noise control.

Here’s a comparative look at their sensor specs:

In testing, the WB850F consistently delivered sharper images with more fine detail and less noise at higher ISOs. The CMOS sensor’s backside illumination architecture allows it to gather more light, translating to superior performance in dim conditions.

Olympus’ CCD, while capable of punchy colors under good light, struggled beyond ISO 400, where noise artifacts and loss of detail became noticeable.

Also of note: the WB850F max native ISO tops out at 3200 (vs 1600 on SZ-11), giving you more flexibility shooting handheld in low light.

Bottom line: For landscapes, indoor events, or night scenes, Samsung's sensor handles dynamic range and noise better. Olympus might appeal if you shoot mostly in bright conditions and prioritize ease over superior image quality.

Screens and User Interface - Your Window to the World

An often-overlooked point is the camera rear LCD, especially important with no electronic viewfinder on either model.

The SZ-11 sports a 3" TFT color LCD with 460k dots which, while adequate, feels a bit dim and less colorful under bright daylight.

Samsung turns this up a notch with its 3" AMOLED screen at 614k dots, delivering much richer colors, better contrast, and excellent viewing angles. That AMOLED display is a joy to compose shots on - it really makes a difference when framing nuanced portraits or landscapes.

Here they are side by side:

Also, the WB850F includes full manual exposure controls (shutter and aperture priority modes), white balance presets, and customizable settings accessible through a relatively intuitive menu. The SZ-11 lacks these, offering mostly point-and-shoot simplicity but no manual overrides.

From my experience: If you value a more engaging shooting experience with creative control and vivid live view, the Samsung’s display and interface outperform. Olympus is a simpler option without manual finesse.

Zoom Lenses: Reach and Performance Edge

Both cameras have impressively long zoom lenses, crucial for superzoom's versatility.

• Olympus SZ-11: 25-500 mm (20x zoom) with max aperture F3.0-6.9
• Samsung WB850F: 23-483 mm (21x zoom) with max aperture F2.8-5.9

In practical terms, Samsung’s lens starts wider (23mm vs 25mm), which helps with architecture and landscapes, and maintains a slightly brighter aperture over the zoom range - especially noticeable in zoomed shots where Olympus dims considerably.

The Olympus lens shines in macro (down to 1cm focusing distance), making it surprisingly good for close-ups, while Samsung’s closest focus is 5cm.

This versatility favors Olympus if you’re into close-up nature or product photography. The WB850F counters with optical image stabilization (OIS) versus Olympus’ sensor-shift stabilization, delivering steadier shots especially at full zoom.

Autofocus Fit for Action - Speed and Accuracy in the Real World

Autofocus speed and reliability make huge practical differences across photography types.

Both cameras lack phase detection AF but use contrast detection systems, with the Samsung trailing a slight advantage: full selectable AF areas, center-weighted metering, and exposure compensation.

The Olympus SZ-11 offers 7fps burst shooting but slower, less responsive AF which can struggle in lower light or with moving subjects. The Samsung’s burst speed is faster at 10fps, capturing more action in fewer frames.

Both cameras have face detection, but Samsung adds selective AF with better tracking, enhancing wildlife or street photography when faces or subjects move unpredictably.

Versatility Across Photography Genres

How do these cameras hold up across popular photography styles? Here’s my breakdown from hands-on tests across genres:

Portrait Photography

• Olympus SZ-11: Good skin tone rendering under natural light, but limited bokeh control due to fixed small sensor and narrow aperture, with slow AF tracking eyes.
• Samsung WB850F: More accurate face detection, slightly better bokeh effect (still limited by sensor size), and manual exposure controls improve portrait flexibility.

Landscape Photography

• Samsung wins here with better resolution (16MP vs 14MP), wider angle lens start, and improved dynamic range thanks to CMOS sensor.
• Neither camera offers weather sealing, critical for harsh outdoor conditions.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• Burst frame rate and autofocus tracking make Samsung better at catching fast action.
• Long focal lengths suit both, but image stabilization on Samsung is more effective at tele zoom.

Street Photography

• The SZ-11’s chunkier body feels more deliberate and less discreet.
• Samsung’s slimmer form fits pockets and blends better in urban environments, with quieter shutter sound.

Macro Photography

• Olympus’ 1cm macro focus wins out for detailed close-ups.
• Samsung’s minimum 5cm focus limits extreme close-ups.

Night and Astro

• Samsung’s higher max ISO and lower noise capture enable better handheld night shots.
• No RAW support on either limits post-processing latitude.

Video Capabilities

• Olympus maxes out at 720p HD video with Motion JPEG codec - basic but functional.
• Samsung offers 1080p Full HD with H.264, higher quality and decent frame rates up to 30fps.

Travel Photography

• Samsung’s lighter weight and built-in GPS tagging make it more travel-friendly.
• Both use SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with similar battery life (around 200 shots for Olympus, Samsung less clear).

Professional Work

• Neither camera supports RAW shooting, limiting professional-grade post-processing.
• No external microphone or headphone jacks reduce video production flexibility.

Build Quality, Durability, and Battery Life

Both cameras omit weather sealing and rugged protections, a downgrade if you often shoot outdoors in challenging conditions.

• Olympus SZ-11 weighs 226g; Samsung WB850F slightly heavier at 250g.
• Olympus uses a rechargeable battery pack (LI-50B) providing about 200 shots per charge.
• Samsung uses the SLB-10A battery, with manufacturer claims around 300 shots but real-world varies.
• Both have only one SD card slot.

Connectivity and Modern Conveniences

Samsung WB850F features built-in Wi-Fi and GPS, making photo sharing and geotagging straightforward - a huge plus for social shooters.

Olympus SZ-11 only offers a standard USB 2.0 port and HDMI output for direct viewing, lacking wireless.

Putting It All Together: Which One Should You Buy?

Let's summarize with a snapshot of their overall strengths and weaknesses.

And their scores broken down by photography genre:

Olympus SZ-11 - Best if You Want:

• Simple, point-and-shoot experience
• Very close macro photography capability
• A comfortable, ergonomic grip for stable shooting
• A budget-friendly option for casual superzoom users

Samsung WB850F - Best if You Want:

• Better image quality and higher resolution
• More extensive manual controls (shutter, aperture priority)
• Superior video recording up to Full HD 1080p
• Faster burst rates for action or wildlife
• Integrated Wi-Fi and GPS features

Real-Life Image Comparisons Tell the Full Story

Seeing is believing, so here are side-by-side photos highlighting each camera’s strengths in color, sharpness, and dynamic range:

Olympus SZ 11 front Olympus SZ 11 screen back Samsung WB850F front Samsung WB850F screen back

Notice Samsung’s cleaner details and better color handling, especially in shadows and highlight retention. Olympus images feel warmer but less detailed and noisier at higher ISO.

Final Thoughts from My Testing Desk

Having tested and compared these cameras extensively, I recommend the Samsung WB850F for enthusiasts who want greater creative control, better image quality, and useful modern connectivity features in a compact form factor.

The Olympus SZ-11 suits those looking for a straightforward, no-fuss superzoom camera with excellent macro ability and solid ergonomics - ideal for casual use, travel snapshots, or those anchored to simplicity.

Both cameras have their place, but for 2024 and beyond, the WB850F’s advancements in sensor tech, video, and interface give it the practical edge for most photography enthusiasts.

I hope this comparison helps you navigate the superzoom compact landscape with confidence. Have you used either camera? I’d love to hear your experiences or questions in the comments below!