Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic GH2

Let's take a more detailed look at the Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic GH2, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the GH2 (16MP) is pretty well matched but the SZ-12 (1/2.3") and GH2 (Four Thirds) provide different sensor sizes.

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The SZ-12 was released 10 months later than the GH2 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-12 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GH2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a quick summary of how the SZ-12 matches up against the GH2 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Panasonic GH2 Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you should factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-12 offers physical measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic GH2 has dimensions of 124mm x 90mm x 76mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic GH2 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at that moment. Below is a front view scale comparison of the SZ-12 and the GH2.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and GH2 is 89 and 70 respectively.

More often than not, its tough to imagine the gap between sensor measurements only by looking at a spec sheet. The photograph here will help offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-12 and GH2.

Clearly, the 2 cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The SZ-12 featuring a tinier sensor is going to make getting bokeh trickier and the Panasonic GH2 will give more detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will help you crop shots more aggressively. The newer SZ-12 provides an edge in sensor technology.