Olympus SZ-12 vs Pentax E90

Here is a complete assessment of the Olympus SZ-12 and Pentax E90, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Pentax. There exists a considerable gap among the sensor resolutions of the SZ-12 (14MP) and E90 (10MP) but both cameras provide the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was launched 24 months later than the E90 making them a generation apart from one another. Both cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a complete comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the SZ-12 scores against the E90 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-12 & Pentax Optio E90. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Pentax E90 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera frequently, you'll need to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-12 enjoys external dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Pentax E90 has specifications of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") along with a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-12 and Pentax E90 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are working with at that moment. Following is a front view size comparison of the SZ-12 compared to the E90.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and E90 is 89 and 94 respectively.

More often than not, it's tough to imagine the difference in sensor sizing purely by looking through a spec sheet. The graphic underneath will provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-12 and E90.

As you can see, both the cameras feature the identical sensor size but different MP. You can expect to see the Olympus SZ-12 to provide you with extra detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop images way more aggressively. The newer SZ-12 should have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.