Olympus SZ-15 vs Panasonic GF7

Here is a thorough analysis of the Olympus SZ-15 vs Panasonic GF7, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-15 (16MP) and the GF7 (16MP) is fairly similar but the SZ-15 (1/2.3") and GF7 (Four Thirds) offer totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-15 was brought out 19 months prior to the GF7 making them a generation apart from one another. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-15 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF7 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight to a detailed comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the SZ-15 grades versus the GF7 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-15 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-15 Gallery and Panasonic GF7 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera regularly, you will need to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-15 offers exterior measurements of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) and the Panasonic GF7 has proportions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs).

See the Olympus SZ-15 vs Panasonic GF7 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the SZ-15 versus the GF7.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-15 and GF7 is 88 and 90 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to envision the difference between sensor sizing merely by going over technical specs. The photograph here may offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SZ-15 and GF7.

As you have seen, both cameras provide the same megapixel count but not the same sensor sizing. The SZ-15 contains the tinier sensor which will make achieving shallow DOF more challenging. The older SZ-15 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.