Olympus SZ-15 vs Olympus Stylus SH-2: A Hands-On Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

When it comes to small sensor superzoom compacts, Olympus has carved a distinct niche over the years with cameras that emphasize accessibility and zoom reach. In this article, we take a deep dive into two models separated by roughly two years in release - the Olympus SZ-15 (2013) and the more advanced Olympus Stylus SH-2 (2015). Both cameras share a compact footprint but charm different users in subtle ways.

Having extensively tested and compared hundreds of cameras with varying sensor sizes, lens systems, and user interfaces, I approach this comparison with a focus on real-world usability, image quality, and value for the enthusiast. Let’s unfold how these two stack up across key photography disciplines and features to help you decide which fits your needs best.

First Impressions: Size, Ergonomics & Handling

Handling is the often-overlooked factor that makes or breaks day-to-day shooting pleasure. I brought both cameras out on multiple shoots - urban street strolls, nature hikes, and studio portraits - and found their differences intriguing.

Physically, both are pocket-friendly but shaped differently. The SZ-15 measures 108 x 70 x 40 mm at 250g, while the SH-2 is slightly taller and narrower at 109 x 63 x 42 mm weighing in at 271g. The SZ-15’s chunkier grip feels reassuring in hand, adapting well to extended shooting, whereas the SH-2's slimmer body feels a tad more travel-ready but can feel a bit less secure with larger hands.

On top, the controls layout feels more modern on the SH-2 with its dedicated video button and zoom toggle sensitivity adjustments, evident in this overview:

The SZ-15 offers basic control rings and a more traditional point-and-shoot orientation, which works fine but lacks the agility the "prosumer" might crave during fast action.

Verdict: SZ-15 edges out with better tactile grip and more straightforward controls, but the SH-2 offers a sleeker profile better suited for street photography and travel.

The Heart of Image Quality - Sensor and Processor

Both cameras use a 1/2.3-inch sensor measuring 6.17 x 4.55 mm with a 16MP resolution. The SZ-15 sports a CCD sensor, while the SH-2 upgrades to a BSI-CMOS sensor paired with Olympus’s TruePic VII processor.

CCD sensors, prevalent in older compacts like the SZ-15, yield decent color depth in good light but struggle with noise and dynamic range, especially in low light. The SH-2’s BSI-CMOS sensor is a clear technological leap, offering:

• Higher native ISO range (125-6400 vs. 100-3200)
• Better low-light sensitivity and noise performance
• Quicker image processing allowing faster continuous shooting

Practically, this translates to:

• Cleaner images at ISO 800 and beyond with the SH-2
• Slightly better color fidelity and detail retention in shadows

I performed controlled ISO tests shooting the same scene with both cameras. The SZ-15 quickly showed luminance noise patterns past ISO 400, while the SH-2 maintained usable quality to ISO 1600, a critical advantage for event or night photography.

However, neither sensor compares to larger APS-C or Micro Four Thirds systems Olympus offers, so expect limitations in high ISO performance regardless.

Zoom Reach and Lens Performance

Both rely on fixed superzoom lenses rather than interchangeable mounts:

The SH-2’s zoom eclipses the SZ-15 marginally with a 24x telephoto range topping out at 600 mm equivalent. That extra reach proved handy during wildlife field tests, allowing crisp framing of distant birds without excessive cropping.

However, optical clarity at the maximum zoom is fair on both cameras due to inherent constraints of small sensor superzooms: subtle chromatic aberration and softness creep in the extreme telephoto range. The SZ-15’s slightly faster aperture at wide angle (f/2.8 vs. f/3.0) allows better low light capability and more subject separation for landscapes and portraits.

Macro focusing is also tighter on the SH-2 (down to 3 cm), making it more versatile for close-ups and flower photography compared to the SZ-15’s 5 cm minimum.

Autofocus Capabilities - Speed and Accuracy

Moving subjects put autofocus systems to the test, especially in wildlife and sports.

The SZ-15 uses contrast detection autofocus only, with limited continuous AF functionality. It includes face detection, center weighted metering, and a basic AF tracking system. However, it lacks live autofocus adjustment or touch AF capabilities.

The SH-2 enhances autofocus with:

• Improved contrast detection with touch AF on the rear screen
• Continuous AF mode with more reliable tracking accuracy
• Face detection on live view, aiding portraits

During sports-like shooting sessions, the SH-2’s autofocus was noticeably faster and more confident locking onto moving subjects, reducing hunt lag in decent light. The SZ-15 occasionally hesitated, especially at maximum zoom.

The continuous shooting rate of SH-2 is 11.5 fps, edging out the SZ-15’s 10 fps. While these numbers are good on paper, buffer limitations and JPEG-only capture on the SZ-15 temper sustained burst usage. The SH-2’s support for RAW shooting also means more post-capture flexibility.

Display and Interface - What’s on the Back?

Both cameras sport a 3-inch LCD with identical resolution (460k dots) but differ in user experience.

The SZ-15 has a classic fixed LCD with no touchscreen. Navigating menus and AF point selection requires physical buttons, slowing operation.

In contrast, the SH-2 offers touchscreen functionality, allowing quick focus point adjustments, menu navigation, and intuitive pinch zooming through images. This modern interface feels more natural, especially in live view and video modes.

Neither camera features an electronic viewfinder, which can be a drawback in bright daylight, but the bright LCD on the SH-2 retains visibility better outdoors thanks to improved anti-reflective coating.

Image Quality in Practice: Real Shooting Scenarios

To bring image quality into focus, I took both cameras through their paces shooting portraits, landscapes, wildlife, and street photography.

Olympus SZ 15 front Olympus SZ 15 screen back Olympus SH 2 front Olympus SH 2 screen back

Portraits

The SZ-15’s faster aperture at wide end helps create modest background separation, aided by face detection autofocus. Skin tones are pleasant in daylight, though softness creeps in at telephoto reach.

The SH-2, although with a slower maximum aperture, benefits from better processor noise control, delivering cleaner portraits even indoors or in shadows. The touchscreen AF makes locking eyes straightforward. Bokeh quality is similar - oval with some lens artifacts, typical of compact superzooms.

Landscapes

For landscapes, resolution and dynamic range matter. With identical 16MP sensors, sharpness is comparable (resolution governed mainly by optics). The SH-2’s processor manages shadows and highlight roll-off better, preserving more detail in tricky lighting like sunrise shots I captured.

Neither camera offers weather sealing, so rugged outdoor conditions require care.

Wildlife

Here, the SH-2 shines with extended zoom range and snappier autofocus. The SZ-15’s 21x zoom is good, but I found myself cropping more heavily to frame skittish birds.

Both cameras struggled with very fast action, yet the SH-2’s better tracking and continuous shooting rate offered a higher keeper ratio in real tests.

Sports

Sports tended to be the SZ-15’s Achilles heel. Slower autofocus and lack of continuous AF handicapped capturing decisive moments. The SH-2 fares better, but again small sensor compacts aren’t first-choice sports cameras.

Street Photography

Portability counts here. Both are discreet and quiet. The SZ-15’s chunkier grip and modest shutter lag can be a bit noticeable. The SH-2, with touchscreen and compactness, feels more street-savvy.

Specialized Genres: Macro, Night, and Video

Macro Photography

The SH-2’s minimum focus distance of 3 cm vs the SZ-15’s 5 cm means tighter close-ups are possible, although neither offers focus stacking or post-focus functionality. Optical stabilization helps keep handheld macro shots sharp.

Night and Astrophotography

The SZ-15 tops out ISO 3200, while SH-2 doubles that to 6400, aided by sensor tech. Both struggle with noise beyond ISO 800 but the SH-2 is less noisy and supports longer shutter speeds (up to 30s), making it marginally better for star trails.

Neither has specialized astro modes but built-in GPS on the SZ-15 can geotag night locations - a small but useful perk.

Video Capabilities

Video specs show clear evolution:

The SH-2’s 1080p60 gives smoother motion capture, supported by superior sensor-shift stabilization for handheld video. The SZ-15 offers basic 1080p30 but lacks advanced encoding and stabilization.

Battery Life and Storage

The SH-2 shines with a rated 380 shots per charge using the LI-92B battery, roughly double what the SZ-15’s SLB-10A is known for, though manufacturer official data for SZ-15 is scarce.

Both utilize single SD card slots, with SH-2 additionally supporting internal memory - a handy safeguard in emergencies.

Connectivity and Extras

Both cameras offer built-in Wi-Fi for easy photo sharing, but neither includes Bluetooth or NFC, which are becoming standard in newer compacts. USB 2.0 and mini-HDMI ports enable tethering and external displays; however, physical ports feel dated nowadays.

The SZ-15 includes built-in GPS, great for geo-tagging adventures, whereas the SH-2 omits this.

Durability and Build Quality

Neither camera offers environmental sealing, splash, or dust resistance - an expected concession for superzoom compacts aimed at casual users.

Build quality is decent with mostly plastic chassis but sturdy buttons and hinge assemblies.

Pricing and Value Assessment

At launch, the SZ-15 was priced around $200 and the SH-2 around $400, reflecting their respective positions: entry-level versus more serious enthusiast compact.

You’ll find the SZ-15 readily available at bargain prices, offering good value for budget users focused on photographic basics with an impressive zoom.

The SH-2 demands a higher investment but delivers meaningful upgrades in image quality, zoom reach, autofocus, and video - earning its premium.

Who Should Buy Which?

Olympus SZ-15 Is For You If:

• Budget constraints dictate no-frills options
• You prioritize a user-friendly setup with basic manual controls but no RAW format needed
• Shooting mostly in daylight or controlled situations where low light isn’t critical
• Casual travel and family photo scenarios appeal most

Olympus Stylus SH-2 Is Your Camera If:

• You want a small superzoom with better image quality and noise control aided by newer sensor tech
• Frequent use of manual exposure modes and RAW imaging is important
• You shoot varied genres including casual wildlife, macro, and video
• Value extra zoom reach and faster burst rates for capturing action moments
• Would appreciate touchscreen convenience and longer battery life

Summary Ratings and Genre-Specific Scores

The chart above summarizes weighted performance indices derived from direct testing and third-party benchmarks, echoing our conclusions: the SH-2 consistently delivers a more refined experience.

Breaking down scores by photography disciplines pinpoints where each model excels or falls short, providing a roadmap for potential buyers.

Final Thoughts

Reviewing the Olympus SZ-15 and SH-2 reveals a clear progression in Olympus’s approach to compact superzooms over two years. The SZ-15’s simpler build and interface make it a reliable, budget-friendly point-and-shoot with surprising reach. Meanwhile, the SH-2 integrates significant technological improvements, from sensor to processor and interface, that elevate image quality and operational versatility.

As always with small sensor superzooms, expectations must be grounded: these cameras will never replace larger sensor mirrorless or DSLR systems for image quality or fast autofocus. However, for enthusiasts seeking a lightweight, all-in-one zoomer with decent manual control, either camera serves its niche well.

In my extensive hands-on experience, if price allows, the Olympus Stylus SH-2’s enhancements justify the premium for anyone wanting a compact powerhouse that punches above its sensor size. The SZ-15 remains a compelling option for those who prioritize simplicity, affordability, and straightforward shooting.

Whether you lean towards the SZ-15’s no-nonsense design or the SH-2’s technological strides, understanding where each camera shines helps you match gear to your photographic aspirations. After all, the best camera is the one that fits seamlessly into your creative workflow and inspires you to shoot more.

Happy shooting!

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