Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic FZ40

Below, we will be matching up the Olympus SZ-16 iHS versus Panasonic FZ40, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) and the FZ40 (14MP) is relatively well matched and they feature the exact same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SZ-16 iHS was unveiled 2 years after the FZ40 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SZ-16 iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving through a thorough comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the SZ-16 iHS grades against the FZ40 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery and Panasonic FZ40 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry around your camera often, you need to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS features external measurements of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") along with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FZ40 has sizing of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") along with a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-16 iHS versus Panasonic FZ40 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have at that time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the SZ-16 iHS compared to the FZ40.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the SZ-16 iHS and FZ40 is 89 and 68 respectively.

Often, it's tough to envision the gap between sensor sizes purely by reading through specs. The pic here should give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-16 iHS and FZ40.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements albeit not the same megapixels. You should count on the Olympus SZ-16 iHS to give you more detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The newer SZ-16 iHS is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.