Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic ZS8

Below, we will be reviewing the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic ZS8, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the ZS8 (14MP) is pretty comparable and they use the exact same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was launched 6 months later than the ZS8 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a complete comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the SZ-12 grades versus the ZS8 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Panasonic ZS8 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you will need to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-12 offers 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) and the Panasonic ZS8 has proportions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") and a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic ZS8 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose at the time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the SZ-12 and the ZS8.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and ZS8 is 89 and 92 respectively.

Often, it is very hard to see the difference in sensor sizing purely by seeing a spec sheet. The visual here will help give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-12 and ZS8.

As you can see, both of those cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements and the exact same MP so you should expect comparable quality of photographs though you should factor the production date of the cameras into account.