Olympus SZ-12 vs Sony HX20V

On this page, we are matching up the Olympus SZ-12 and Sony HX20V, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Sony. There is a noticeable difference between the image resolutions of the SZ-12 (14MP) and HX20V (18MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was launched 6 months before the HX20V so they are of a similar age. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a short overview of how the SZ-12 scores versus the HX20V in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-12 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Sony HX20V Gallery.

In case you're looking to travel with your camera regularly, you'll have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-12 provides external measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Sony HX20V has dimensions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") with a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-12 and Sony HX20V in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are working with at the time. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the SZ-12 and the HX20V.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-12 and HX20V is 89 and 90 respectively.

Usually, it is very tough to imagine the contrast between sensor dimensions only by looking at a spec sheet. The image below will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-12 and HX20V.

Clearly, both the cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different megapixels. You can anticipate the Sony HX20V to resolve more detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop images a bit more aggressively.