Olympus SZ-15 vs Samsung PL170

Below is a extensive comparison of the Olympus SZ-15 versus Samsung PL170, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Ultracompact by companies Olympus and Samsung. The sensor resolution of the SZ-15 (16MP) and the PL170 (16MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras have the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SZ-15 was revealed 2 years later than the PL170 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-15 being a Compact camera and the Samsung PL170 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before going right into a complete comparison, here is a brief summary of how the SZ-15 scores vs the PL170 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-15 & Samsung PL170. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-15 Gallery & Samsung PL170 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to lug around your camera, you will need to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-15 offers outer measurements of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") having a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) whilst the Samsung PL170 has proportions of 95mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.7") having a weight of n/a grams (0.00 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SZ-15 versus Samsung PL170 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you choose at that time. The following is a front view measurements comparison of the SZ-15 and the PL170.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-15 and PL170 is 88 and 99 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor measurements merely by reading through specs. The graphic here will give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-15 and PL170.

All in all, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the same megapixels and you can expect similar quality of photos although you really should consider the age of the products into consideration. The more recent SZ-15 should have an edge in sensor innovation.