Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic SZ5

Below is a in-depth comparison of the Olympus SH-1 and Panasonic SZ5, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SH-1 (16MP) and the SZ5 (14MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras offer the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SH-1 was brought out 21 months later than the SZ5 which makes them a generation apart from each other. The two cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a complete comparison, here is a brief overview of how the SH-1 matches up against the SZ5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SH-1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus SH-1 Gallery and Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

In case you're looking to lug around your camera regularly, you have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SH-1 features outside measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ5 has dimensions of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

See the Olympus SH-1 and Panasonic SZ5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select during that time. The following is a front view size comparison of the SH-1 versus the SZ5.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the SH-1 and SZ5 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Often, it is very tough to envision the difference between sensor measurements simply by reading through technical specs. The photograph underneath might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-1 and SZ5.

As you have seen, both the cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit not the same MP. You should expect the Olympus SH-1 to resolve more detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The more recent SH-1 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.