Olympus 550WP vs Panasonic SZ1

Here, we will be contrasting the Olympus 550WP versus Panasonic SZ1, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a sizable difference between the sensor resolutions of the 550WP (10MP) and SZ1 (16MP) but both cameras posses the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The 550WP was launched 4 years prior to the SZ1 which is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a brief view of how the 550WP matches up versus the SZ1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus 550WP & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus 550WP Gallery & Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

If you're looking to travel with your camera, you will have to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus 550WP features exterior measurements of 94mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") having a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ1 has measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Look at the Olympus 550WP versus Panasonic SZ1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are working with at the time. The following is a front view dimension comparison of the 550WP vs the SZ1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the 550WP and SZ1 is 94 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to visualize the difference between sensor dimensions merely by reading through specifications. The pic here will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the 550WP and SZ1.

To sum up, each of these cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit different resolution. You can expect the Panasonic SZ1 to give you extra detail utilizing its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The more aged 550WP is going to be behind in sensor technology.