Olympus SZ-15 vs Sony RX100

Lets examine more closely at the Olympus SZ-15 versus Sony RX100, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by companies Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the SZ-15 (16MP) and the RX100 (20MP) is relatively similar but the SZ-15 (1/2.3") and RX100 (1") enjoy different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-15 was revealed 10 months after the RX100 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-15 being a Compact camera and the Sony RX100 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go through a complete comparison, below is a short overview of how the SZ-15 scores vs the RX100 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-15 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-15 Gallery and Sony RX100 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera frequently, you'll need to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-15 has external 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) while the Sony RX100 has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Check the Olympus SZ-15 versus Sony RX100 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have during that time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the SZ-15 and the RX100.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-15 and RX100 is 88 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to picture the difference between sensor sizes simply by going over specifications. The pic underneath should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-15 and RX100.

To sum up, both of these cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The SZ-15 using its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult and the Sony RX100 will offer you greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots far more aggressively. The more modern SZ-15 provides an edge with regard to sensor technology.