Olympus SZ-12 vs Sony TX9

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Olympus SZ-12 and Sony TX9, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Ultracompact by brands Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the TX9 (12MP) is pretty well matched and they feature the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-12 was revealed 19 months after the TX9 which makes the cameras a generation away from one another. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-12 being a Compact camera and the Sony TX9 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving through a in-depth comparison, below is a short summation of how the SZ-12 matches up vs the TX9 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-12 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX9. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Sony TX9 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-12 has got exterior dimensions 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 TX9 has measurements of 98mm x 60mm x 18mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 149 grams (0.33 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-12 and Sony TX9 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose at the time. Underneath is the front view measurements comparison of the SZ-12 against the TX9.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-12 and TX9 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, its tough to visualize the difference between sensor sizes just by checking a spec sheet. The image underneath will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-12 and TX9.

Clearly, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should expect the Olympus SZ-12 to give extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots far more aggressively. The younger SZ-12 provides a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.