Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic ZS40

Here is a complete comparison of the Olympus SZ-16 iHS versus Panasonic ZS40, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) and the ZS40 (18MP) is pretty close and both cameras boast the same sensor size (1/2.3").

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The SZ-16 iHS was unveiled 12 months before the ZS40 and they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before going into a in depth comparison, here is a short highlight of how the SZ-16 iHS scores against the ZS40 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-16 iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS40. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery & Panasonic ZS40 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS features outer 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) while the Panasonic ZS40 has proportions of 111mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.3") with a weight of 240 grams (0.53 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-16 iHS versus Panasonic ZS40 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the SZ-16 iHS versus the ZS40.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-16 iHS and ZS40 is 89 and 90 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to visualize the difference in sensor sizing merely by viewing specs. The photograph here might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-16 iHS and ZS40.

All in all, both of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different MP. You can expect the Panasonic ZS40 to result in more detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures more aggressively. The older SZ-16 iHS will be behind with regard to sensor tech.