Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic GF7

Below, we will be looking at the Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic GF7, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) and the GF7 (16MP) is relatively similar but the SZ-16 iHS (1/2.3") and GF7 (Four Thirds) enjoy different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The SZ-16 iHS was launched 3 years prior to the GF7 which is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SZ-16 iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF7 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the SZ-16 iHS matches up versus the GF7 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-16 iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery & Panasonic GF7 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to travel with your camera regularly, you will want to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS has external measurements of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Panasonic GF7 has proportions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") along with a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs).

Check the Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic GF7 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are using during that time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the SZ-16 iHS versus the GF7.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SZ-16 iHS and GF7 is 89 and 90 respectively.

Quite often, it is very tough to picture the contrast between sensor dimensions only by reviewing technical specs. The picture underneath might offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-16 iHS and GF7.

As you have seen, both of those cameras posses the exact same megapixel count albeit different sensor dimensions. The SZ-16 iHS contains the tinier sensor which is going to make getting bokeh more challenging. The more aged SZ-16 iHS is going to be behind in sensor technology.