Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic F5

Here, we are reviewing the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic F5, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the F5 (14MP) is very close and both cameras provide the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was announced 12 months earlier than the F5 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the SZ-12 matches up against the F5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-12 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-F5. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Panasonic F5 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-12 has physical measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Panasonic F5 has proportions of 97mm x 58mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.9") along with a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic F5 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have chosen during that time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the SZ-12 vs the F5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-12 and F5 is 89 and 96 respectively.

Typically, its difficult to see the contrast in sensor sizing only by viewing a spec sheet. The graphic below will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-12 and F5.

As you can see, both of those cameras come with the identical sensor size and the identical megapixels therefore you can expect comparable quality of photos but you really should take the age of the cameras into account. The older SZ-12 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.