Olympus SZ-16 iHS vs Sony S980

On this page, we are reviewing the Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Sony S980, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. There exists a sizable gap between the resolutions of the SZ-16 iHS (16MP) and S980 (12MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SZ-16 iHS was launched 3 years after the S980 which is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple highlight of how the SZ-16 iHS grades against the S980 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus SZ-16 iHS & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-S980. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SZ-16 iHS Gallery & Sony S980 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry around your camera regularly, you need to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-16 iHS provides exterior measurements of 108mm x 70mm x 40mm (4.3" x 2.8" x 1.6") with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Sony S980 has specifications of 93mm x 56mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SZ-16 iHS and Sony S980 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you choose at the time. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the SZ-16 iHS against the S980.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SZ-16 iHS and S980 is 89 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it can be tough to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes simply by reading through specifications. The picture underneath will help give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-16 iHS and S980.

To sum up, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different resolution. You can anticipate the Olympus SZ-16 iHS to resolve more detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more recent SZ-16 iHS provides a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.