Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic SZ8

Here, we will be comparing the Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic SZ8, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the SZ8 (16MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras provide the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ-12 was released 24 months before the SZ8 which makes them a generation away from each other. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going straight to a complete comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the SZ-12 scores vs the SZ8 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

In case you're planning to travel with your camera regularly, you'll 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") along with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ8 has sizing of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic SZ8 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the SZ-12 against the SZ8.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-12 and SZ8 is 89 and 94 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to picture the difference between sensor dimensions just by checking specs. The picture underneath will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-12 and SZ8.

All in all, both of the cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit different MP. You should expect the Panasonic SZ8 to give extra detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The more aged SZ-12 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.