Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Samsung HZ50W

Its time to take a more detailed look at the Olympus SZ-16 iHS versus Samsung HZ50W, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by brands Olympus and Samsung. The sensor resolution of the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) and the HZ50W (14MP) is fairly similar and both cameras boast the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SZ-16 iHS was unveiled 2 years after the HZ50W which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus SZ-16 iHS being a Compact camera and the Samsung HZ50W being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a brief summary of how the SZ-16 iHS scores vs the HZ50W with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Samsung HZ50W. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery and Samsung HZ50W Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you'll have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS has physical dimensions of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Samsung HZ50W has measurements of 116mm x 83mm x 91mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.6") and a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SZ-16 iHS versus Samsung HZ50W in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the SZ-16 iHS against the HZ50W.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-16 iHS and HZ50W is 89 and 70 respectively.

In many cases, it's hard to visualise the difference between sensor sizes only by reading a spec sheet. The picture below might provide you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the SZ-16 iHS and HZ50W.

As you can see, both of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but not the same resolution. You should anticipate the Olympus SZ-16 iHS to offer greater detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos more aggressively. The newer SZ-16 iHS will have an edge in sensor technology.