Olympus SZ-12 vs Pentax W60

Following is a thorough assessment of the Olympus SZ-12 and Pentax W60, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Pentax. There is a noticeable difference between the image resolutions of the SZ-12 (14MP) and W60 (10MP) but both cameras have the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was unveiled 2 years after the W60 which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a thorough comparison, here is a simple view of how the SZ-12 matches up vs the W60 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-12 & Pentax Optio W60. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Pentax W60 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry around your camera regularly, you have to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-12 has external measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Pentax W60 has sizing of 98mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") along with a weight of 165 grams (0.36 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-12 and Pentax W60 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you select during that time. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the SZ-12 versus the W60.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and W60 is 89 and 94 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes only by reviewing specs. The picture below may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-12 and W60.

All in all, each of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same resolution. You can expect the Olympus SZ-12 to offer you extra detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The fresher SZ-12 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.