Olympus SZ-12 vs Samsung PL170

Here is a thorough review of the Olympus SZ-12 and Samsung PL170, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Ultracompact by companies Olympus and Samsung. The sensor resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the PL170 (16MP) is relatively similar and both cameras offer the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was unveiled 13 months later than the PL170 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SZ-12 being a Compact camera and the Samsung PL170 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple summation of how the SZ-12 grades versus the PL170 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-12 & Samsung PL170. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Samsung PL170 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-12 offers 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) whilst the Samsung PL170 has measurements of 95mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") along with a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-12 and Samsung PL170 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you choose during that time. Below is a front view size comparison of the SZ-12 versus the PL170.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-12 and PL170 is 89 and 99 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to see the contrast between sensor sizing just by reading a spec sheet. The visual here will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-12 and PL170.

Clearly, both of these cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same megapixels. You can count on the Samsung PL170 to offer you greater detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The more recent SZ-12 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.