Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic FZ300

In this article, we are evaluating the Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Panasonic FZ300, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There is a significant difference among the resolutions of the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) and FZ300 (12MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-16 iHS was introduced 3 years prior to the FZ300 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-16 iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going in to a thorough comparison, below is a concise summary of how the SZ-16 iHS matches up vs the FZ300 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery and Panasonic FZ300 Gallery.

For those who are looking to travel with your camera regularly, you are going to need to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS has physical dimensions of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FZ300 has sizing of 132mm x 92mm x 117mm (5.2" x 3.6" x 4.6") with a weight of 691 grams (1.52 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Panasonic FZ300 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have during that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the SZ-16 iHS vs the FZ300.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-16 iHS and FZ300 is 89 and 59 respectively.

Oftentimes, its hard to see the contrast in sensor dimensions purely by seeing specs. The pic below will help offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-16 iHS and FZ300.

All in all, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You should anticipate the Olympus SZ-16 iHS to show more detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will help you crop photos far more aggressively. The more aged SZ-16 iHS will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.