Olympus SZ-12 vs Samsung HZ15W

Here is a complete overview of the Olympus SZ-12 versus Samsung HZ15W, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Samsung. The sensor resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the HZ15W (12MP) is relatively comparable and they possess the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was unveiled 2 years later than the HZ15W and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting straight into a in depth comparison, below is a simple summation of how the SZ-12 matches up vs the HZ15W with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-12 and Samsung HZ15W. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Samsung HZ15W Gallery.

For those who are aiming to carry your camera, you are going to need to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-12 provides exterior dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Samsung HZ15W has sizing of 105mm x 61mm x 37mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.5") along with a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs).

Check the Olympus SZ-12 versus Samsung HZ15W in the 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 the time. Following is the front view size comparison of the SZ-12 versus the HZ15W.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and HZ15W is 89 and 90 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizing merely by going through specifications. The photograph here will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-12 and HZ15W.

To sum up, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You should count on the Olympus SZ-12 to provide extra detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The fresher SZ-12 should have a benefit in sensor technology.