Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic LF1

In this article, we will be comparing the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic LF1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the LF1 (12MP) is relatively close but the SZ-12 (1/2.3") and LF1 (1/1.7") feature totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-12 was launched 22 months before the LF1 which makes the cameras a generation away from one another. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going in to a detailed comparison, below is a quick view of how the SZ-12 matches up versus the LF1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LF1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Panasonic LF1 Gallery.

If you are aiming to travel with your camera, you have to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-12 provides outside dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic LF1 has sizing of 103mm x 62mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 192 grams (0.42 lbs).

Check the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic LF1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at that moment. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the SZ-12 and the LF1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and LF1 is 89 and 92 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to visualise the difference in sensor dimensions simply by researching a spec sheet. The image below should provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-12 and LF1.

Clearly, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The SZ-12 featuring a smaller sensor will make getting bokeh harder and the Olympus SZ-12 will provide you with more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged SZ-12 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.