Olympus SZ-15 vs Panasonic FP5

On this page, we will be analyzing the Olympus SZ-15 versus Panasonic FP5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Ultracompact by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-15 (16MP) and the FP5 (14MP) is relatively similar and both cameras boast the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-15 was unveiled 2 years later than the FP5 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-15 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FP5 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving straight to a complete comparison, here is a short introduction of how the SZ-15 grades against the FP5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-15 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-15 Gallery and Panasonic FP5 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-15 offers 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) while the Panasonic FP5 has specifications of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") along with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-15 versus Panasonic FP5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select during that time. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the SZ-15 and the FP5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-15 and FP5 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to imagine the difference between sensor measurements only by going over a spec sheet. The photograph underneath should offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-15 and FP5.

As you can see, each of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You should count on the Olympus SZ-15 to offer greater detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop photographs more aggressively. The more recent SZ-15 should have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.