Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic FP8

Here is a extended overview of the Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic FP8, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Ultracompact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There is a big difference among the resolutions of the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) and FP8 (12MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The SZ-16 iHS was brought out 3 years later than the FP8 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-16 iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FP8 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving in to a complete comparison, below is a quick summary of how the SZ-16 iHS grades versus the FP8 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP8. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery and Panasonic FP8 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera, you have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS has outside dimensions of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic FP8 has dimensions of 96mm x 60mm x 20mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 0.8") and a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs).

See the Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic FP8 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose at that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the SZ-16 iHS versus the FP8.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-16 iHS and FP8 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to visualise the difference in sensor sizing only by going through specs. The visual underneath might offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-16 iHS and FP8.

All in all, both of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You should count on the Olympus SZ-16 iHS to produce more detail having its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more modern SZ-16 iHS will have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.