Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic FH27

In this write-up, we are comparing the Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic FH27, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the FH27 (16MP) is fairly well matched and they come with the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was brought out 13 months after the FH27 making the cameras a generation away from each other. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief summation of how the SZ-12 grades versus the FH27 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH27. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Panasonic FH27 Gallery.

When you are intending to travel with your camera regularly, you're going to have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-12 enjoys 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 Panasonic FH27 has specifications of 99mm x 57mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") with a weight of 152 grams (0.34 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic FH27 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are using during that time. Following is the front view size comparison of the SZ-12 vs the FH27.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-12 and FH27 is 89 and 94 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions merely by looking at technical specs. The image underneath may offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-12 and FH27.

As you have seen, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same MP. You should anticipate the Panasonic FH27 to give greater detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images far more aggressively. The younger SZ-12 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.