Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic FZ40

Here is a in-depth assessment of the Olympus SH-1 versus Panasonic FZ40, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SH-1 (16MP) and the FZ40 (14MP) is very close and both cameras offer the identical sensor sizes (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SH-1 was unveiled 3 years later than the FZ40 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SH-1 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before getting into a complete comparison, here is a short highlight of how the SH-1 grades vs the FZ40 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus SH-1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SH-1 Gallery & Panasonic FZ40 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera regularly, you need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SH-1 offers exterior measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FZ40 has dimensions of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") along with a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SH-1 versus Panasonic FZ40 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select during that time. The following is a front view size comparison of the SH-1 compared to the FZ40.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SH-1 and FZ40 is 88 and 68 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing merely by looking through specs. The photograph underneath should give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-1 and FZ40.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras come with the identical sensor size but not the same megapixels. You can expect to see the Olympus SH-1 to provide you with greater detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop images a good deal more aggressively. The newer SH-1 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.