Olympus SZ-12 vs Samsung HZ30W

Following is a in-depth analysis of the Olympus SZ-12 versus Samsung HZ30W, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Samsung. The resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the HZ30W (12MP) is pretty comparable and both cameras posses the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was introduced 2 years after the HZ30W which is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a detailed comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the SZ-12 matches up against the HZ30W with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-12 and Samsung HZ30W. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Samsung HZ30W Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera frequently, you will have to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-12 enjoys exterior measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") along with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Samsung HZ30W has proportions of 107mm x 61mm x 28mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-12 versus Samsung HZ30W in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are utilising at that time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the SZ-12 compared to the HZ30W.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-12 and HZ30W is 89 and 91 respectively.

Usually, it's difficult to envision the contrast in sensor sizes only by seeing a spec sheet. The picture here will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-12 and HZ30W.

As you can see, each of these cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same megapixels. You should expect the Olympus SZ-12 to show extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs way more aggressively. The more recent SZ-12 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.