Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic FH5

Let's look more closely at the Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic FH5, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the FH5 (16MP) is pretty similar and both cameras boast the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was launched 13 months after the FH5 which makes them a generation away from each other. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a short introduction of how the SZ-12 grades versus the FH5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-12 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH5. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Panasonic FH5 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera regularly, you will have to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-12 comes with exterior measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic FH5 has sizing of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic FH5 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select at that time. Here is a front view overall size comparison of the SZ-12 versus the FH5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-12 and FH5 is 89 and 96 respectively.

Generally, it can be difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizes simply by going over specs. The image underneath might provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-12 and FH5.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same resolution. You can expect the Panasonic FH5 to offer you more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop pictures way more aggressively. The fresher SZ-12 will have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.