Olympus SZ-15 vs Panasonic ZS80

Following is a in-depth review of the Olympus SZ-15 versus Panasonic ZS80, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-15 (16MP) and the ZS80 (20MP) is fairly close and they enjoy the exact same sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ-15 was introduced 5 years earlier than the ZS80 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving straight into a thorough comparison, below is a quick summation of how the SZ-15 grades versus the ZS80 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-15 & Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-15 Gallery & Panasonic ZS80 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera, you will want to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-15 features exterior measurements of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") along with a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) and the Panasonic ZS80 has measurements of 112mm x 69mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") having a weight of 327 grams (0.72 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-15 versus Panasonic ZS80 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are utilizing at the time. Following is the front view dimension comparison of the SZ-15 compared to the ZS80.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-15 and ZS80 is 88 and 86 respectively.

Generally, it is tough to visualise the difference in sensor sizes purely by researching specifications. The pic here should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-15 and ZS80.

Plainly, both cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same resolution. You can anticipate the Panasonic ZS80 to render extra detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The more aged SZ-15 will be behind in sensor technology.