Olympus SZ-12 vs Sony RX1R II

In this write-up, we are analyzing the Olympus SZ-12 versus Sony RX1R II, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Sony. There is a substantial difference between the resolutions of the SZ-12 (14MP) and RX1R II (42MP) and the SZ-12 (1/2.3") and RX1R II (Full frame) use totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-12 was announced 4 years earlier than the RX1R II which is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-12 being a Compact camera and the Sony RX1R II being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the SZ-12 matches up versus the RX1R II for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-12 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1R II. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Sony RX1R II Gallery.

For those who are aiming to travel with your camera often, you will need to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-12 provides external measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Sony RX1R II has measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 72mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 507 grams (1.12 lbs).

Check the Olympus SZ-12 versus Sony RX1R II in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have attached at that moment. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the SZ-12 compared to the RX1R II.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-12 and RX1R II is 89 and 78 respectively.

Usually, its tough to envision the contrast between sensor dimensions merely by reading through specifications. The picture below should give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-12 and RX1R II.

To sum up, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The SZ-12 using its tinier sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field more difficult and the Sony RX1R II will resolve extra detail with its extra 28MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged SZ-12 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.