Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic G2

Let's look a little more closely at the Olympus SZ-16 iHS versus Panasonic G2, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a large gap between the image resolutions of the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) and G2 (12MP) and the SZ-16 iHS (1/2.3") and G2 (Four Thirds) boast totally different sensor sizing.

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The SZ-16 iHS was brought out 2 years later than the G2 and that is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-16 iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic G2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight to a full comparison, here is a quick summation of how the SZ-16 iHS scores against the G2 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-16 iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery & Panasonic G2 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS offers external dimensions 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 G2 has measurements of 124mm x 84mm x 74mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 2.9") and a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-16 iHS versus Panasonic G2 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you choose during that time. Following is a front view sizing comparison of the SZ-16 iHS against the G2.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-16 iHS and G2 is 89 and 72 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizing simply by going over a spec sheet. The visual below will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-16 iHS and G2.

As you can see, the 2 cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SZ-16 iHS because of its tinier sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field tougher and the Olympus SZ-16 iHS will deliver extra detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics more aggressively. The more modern SZ-16 iHS is going to have an edge in sensor technology.