Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic LF1

On this page, we will be reviewing the Olympus SZ-16 iHS versus Panasonic LF1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a sizable gap among the image resolutions of the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) and LF1 (12MP) and the SZ-16 iHS (1/2.3") and LF1 (1/1.7") posses different sensor dimensions.

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The SZ-16 iHS was brought out 10 months prior to the LF1 and they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a full comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the SZ-16 iHS matches up against the LF1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-16 iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LF1. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery & Panasonic LF1 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS provides physical dimensions of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Panasonic LF1 has specifications of 103mm x 62mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 192 grams (0.42 lbs).

Check the Olympus SZ-16 iHS versus Panasonic LF1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have during that time. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the SZ-16 iHS and the LF1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-16 iHS and LF1 is 89 and 92 respectively.

Typically, it's tough to visualize the gap in sensor sizing simply by viewing technical specs. The photograph below might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-16 iHS and LF1.

As you have seen, both the cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SZ-16 iHS due to its smaller sensor is going to make shooting bokeh tougher and the Olympus SZ-16 iHS will render more detail having its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The older SZ-16 iHS will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.