Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic GF5

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Panasonic GF5, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a crucial gap between the resolutions of the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) and GF5 (12MP) and the SZ-16 iHS (1/2.3") and GF5 (Four Thirds) come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The SZ-16 iHS was brought out 10 months after the GF5 and they are of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SZ-16 iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight into a in depth comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the SZ-16 iHS scores vs the GF5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF5. The entire galleries are available at Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery and Panasonic GF5 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera often, you have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS has exterior dimensions of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic GF5 has measurements of 108mm x 67mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.5") and a weight of 267 grams (0.59 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Panasonic GF5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you use during that time. The following is the front view over all size comparison of the SZ-16 iHS vs the GF5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-16 iHS and GF5 is 89 and 89 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizes simply by reading specs. The picture underneath will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-16 iHS and GF5.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The SZ-16 iHS featuring a tinier sensor will make shooting shallower DOF more difficult and the Olympus SZ-16 iHS will deliver more detail having its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures far more aggressively. The more recent SZ-16 iHS is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.