Olympus SZ-12 vs Sony RX100 VA

Following is a extended assessment of the Olympus SZ-12 versus Sony RX100 VA, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by companies Olympus and Sony. There exists a significant gap among the image resolutions of the SZ-12 (14MP) and RX100 VA (20MP) and the SZ-12 (1/2.3") and RX100 VA (1") have totally different sensor sizes.

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The SZ-12 was brought out 7 years before the RX100 VA which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-12 being a Compact camera and the Sony RX100 VA being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the SZ-12 grades against the RX100 VA in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-12 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 V(A). The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Sony RX100 VA Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera often, you should take into account its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-12 enjoys exterior 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 Sony RX100 VA has specifications of 102mm x 58mm x 41mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.6") having a weight of 299 grams (0.66 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-12 versus Sony RX100 VA in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose at that time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the SZ-12 compared to the RX100 VA.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-12 and RX100 VA is 89 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it is very tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizes purely by seeing specifications. The picture underneath should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-12 and RX100 VA.

To sum up, both of these cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SZ-12 due to its smaller sensor will make getting shallow DOF more challenging and the Sony RX100 VA will produce extra detail having its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The more aged SZ-12 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.