Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic FH1

Following is a in-depth review of the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic FH1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the FH1 (12MP) is fairly similar and they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was released 2 years after the FH1 which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a concise view of how the SZ-12 scores versus the FH1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-12 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Panasonic FH1 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry around your camera, you will want to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-12 enjoys physical measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") along with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FH1 has sizing of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs).

See the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic FH1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have at that time. Below is the front view over all size comparison of the SZ-12 versus the FH1.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and FH1 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to envision the gap between sensor sizes only by reviewing technical specs. The pic below may give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-12 and FH1.

As you have seen, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same megapixels. You can anticipate the Olympus SZ-12 to offer greater detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop images far more aggressively. The fresher SZ-12 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.