Olympus SZ-12 vs Olympus XZ-1

Here is a in depth assessment of the Olympus SZ-12 vs Olympus XZ-1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and both are built by Olympus. There exists a significant gap among the sensor resolutions of the SZ-12 (14MP) and XZ-1 (10MP) and the SZ-12 (1/2.3") and XZ-1 (1/1.63") posses totally different sensor measurements.

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The SZ-12 was manufactured 12 months later than the XZ-1 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the SZ-12 scores against the XZ-1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-12 and Olympus XZ-1. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Olympus XZ-1 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera often, you need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-12 provides 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) and the Olympus XZ-1 has measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") with a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-12 vs Olympus XZ-1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the SZ-12 compared to the XZ-1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and XZ-1 is 89 and 88 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to see the contrast in sensor sizing simply by researching specs. The visual here will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-12 and XZ-1.

All in all, both the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The SZ-12 because of its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh tougher and the Olympus SZ-12 will result in greater detail due to its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos more aggressively. The more modern SZ-12 will have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.