Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Panasonic ZS8

The following is a detailed review of the Olympus SZ-16 iHS versus Panasonic ZS8, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) and the ZS8 (14MP) is relatively comparable and both cameras offer the identical sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SZ-16 iHS was brought out 18 months after the ZS8 which makes them a generation away from each other. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting right into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick view of how the SZ-16 iHS grades vs the ZS8 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SZ-16 iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8. The entire galleries are available at Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery & Panasonic ZS8 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to travel with your camera often, you will want to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS comes with physical 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 ZS8 has measurements of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-16 iHS versus Panasonic ZS8 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the SZ-16 iHS compared to the ZS8.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-16 iHS and ZS8 is 89 and 92 respectively.

Often, it is tough to imagine the difference in sensor dimensions simply by checking out technical specs. The picture below may provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-16 iHS and ZS8.

As you can tell, both of those cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit different resolution. You can count on the Olympus SZ-16 iHS to produce more detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots way more aggressively. The more recent SZ-16 iHS provides an advantage with regard to sensor technology.