Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic ZS15

Here, we are matching up the Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic ZS15, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the ZS15 (12MP) is fairly similar and both cameras offer the identical sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was introduced 5 months before the ZS15 so they are both of a similar age. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a brief summation of how the SZ-12 scores versus the ZS15 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-12 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Panasonic ZS15 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera often, you will have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-12 has got external measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS15 has dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic ZS15 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are working with at that moment. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the SZ-12 versus the ZS15.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-12 and ZS15 is 89 and 92 respectively.

Generally, its hard to envision the contrast between sensor measurements purely by reading technical specs. The graphic underneath will give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-12 and ZS15.

As you have seen, both of these cameras feature the identical sensor size but not the same MP. You can anticipate the Olympus SZ-12 to deliver more detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop images way more aggressively.