Olympus 7010 vs Panasonic SZ5

Following is a extended assessment of the Olympus 7010 and Panasonic SZ5, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the 7010 (12MP) and the SZ5 (14MP) is fairly close and both cameras have the identical sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The 7010 was launched 4 years earlier than the SZ5 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a full comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the 7010 grades versus the SZ5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus 7010 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The complete galleries are available at Olympus 7010 Gallery and Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

If you are going to carry around your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus 7010 offers external measurements of 98mm x 56mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ5 has dimensions of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

Compare the Olympus 7010 and Panasonic SZ5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select at that moment. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the 7010 versus the SZ5.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the 7010 and SZ5 is 94 and 95 respectively.

Quite often, it is very hard to visualise the difference in sensor sizes just by viewing specifications. The image below will help give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the 7010 and SZ5.

Plainly, the two cameras feature the identical sensor size but not the same megapixels. You should anticipate the Panasonic SZ5 to result in more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop images way more aggressively. The more aged 7010 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.