Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic GF1

Below, we are comparing the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic GF1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the GF1 (12MP) is fairly similar but the SZ-12 (1/2.3") and GF1 (Four Thirds) possess different sensor sizing.

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The SZ-12 was released 2 years later than the GF1 and that is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SZ-12 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight into a in depth comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the SZ-12 matches up against the GF1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-12 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

If you are going to lug around your camera, you have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-12 comes with exterior dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GF1 has dimensions of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic GF1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you use at that moment. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the SZ-12 versus the GF1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ-12 and GF1 is 89 and 85 respectively.

Typically, it's tough to visualize the gap between sensor measurements only by going over a spec sheet. The photograph here will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-12 and GF1.

Clearly, each of these cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The SZ-12 due to its tinier sensor is going to make shooting bokeh tougher and the Olympus SZ-12 will deliver greater detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The younger SZ-12 provides an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.