Olympus SZ-12 vs Samsung HZ50W

Following is a thorough review of the Olympus SZ-12 vs Samsung HZ50W, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Samsung. The resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the HZ50W (14MP) is relatively well matched and they use the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was revealed 21 months after the HZ50W which makes the cameras a generation away from one another. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-12 being a Compact camera and the Samsung HZ50W being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go straight into a detailed comparison, below is a simple view of how the SZ-12 matches up vs the HZ50W in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-12 and Samsung HZ50W. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Samsung HZ50W Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry around your camera regularly, you have to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-12 has got physical measurements 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 Samsung HZ50W has sizing of 116mm x 83mm x 91mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.6") and a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs).

Check the Olympus SZ-12 vs Samsung HZ50W in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use at that time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the SZ-12 compared to the HZ50W.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and HZ50W is 89 and 70 respectively.

More often than not, it is very hard to see the difference between sensor sizes purely by reading through specifications. The picture here should give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-12 and HZ50W.

Plainly, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the same resolution and you should expect similar quality of images although you might want to take the release date of the products into consideration. The more modern SZ-12 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.