Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic FZ300

Here, we will be analyzing the Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic FZ300, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a sizable difference among the sensor resolutions of the SH-1 (16MP) and FZ300 (12MP) but both cameras have the identical sensor size (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SH-1 was introduced 15 months prior to the FZ300 which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SH-1 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ300 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving into a full comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the SH-1 scores versus the FZ300 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SH-1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ300. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SH-1 Gallery & Panasonic FZ300 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus SH-1 has got outer dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") along with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FZ300 has measurements of 132mm x 92mm x 117mm (5.2" x 3.6" x 4.6") accompanied by a weight of 691 grams (1.52 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic FZ300 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have attached during that time. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the SH-1 compared to the FZ300.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the SH-1 and FZ300 is 88 and 59 respectively.

Usually, it is very difficult to imagine the difference in sensor measurements merely by seeing specs. The photograph underneath should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the SH-1 and FZ300.

As you can plainly see, both of those cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit different resolution. You can expect the Olympus SH-1 to provide greater detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The older SH-1 will be behind in sensor technology.