Olympus SZ-15 vs Sony HX99

Here, we are reviewing the Olympus SZ-15 and Sony HX99, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the SZ-15 (16MP) and the HX99 (18MP) is very well matched but the SZ-15 (1/2.3") and HX99 (1/2.3-inch) provide different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-15 was brought out 6 years before the HX99 which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the SZ-15 grades versus the HX99 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-15 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX99. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-15 Gallery and Sony HX99 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-15 has physical measurements of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") and a weight of 250 grams (0.55 lbs) while the Sony HX99 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") along with a weight of 242 grams (0.53 lbs).

See the Olympus SZ-15 and Sony HX99 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have attached at the time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the SZ-15 compared to the HX99.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-15 and HX99 is 88 and 91 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to picture the contrast between sensor sizes simply by checking specs. The image here will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-15 and HX99.

All in all, both cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SZ-15 due to its larger sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF less difficult and the Sony HX99 will give you greater detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more aged SZ-15 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.