Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic ZS100

In this write-up, we are matching up the Olympus SH-1 versus Panasonic ZS100, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SH-1 (16MP) and the ZS100 (20MP) is very similar but the SH-1 (1/2.3") and ZS100 (1") enjoy different sensor size.

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The SH-1 was manufactured 21 months before the ZS100 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SH-1 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic ZS100 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go in to a detailed comparison, below is a simple summation of how the SH-1 matches up versus the ZS100 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus SH-1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS100. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus SH-1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS100 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus SH-1 has outside measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS100 has sizing of 111mm x 65mm x 44mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") and a weight of 312 grams (0.69 lbs).

Check the Olympus SH-1 versus Panasonic ZS100 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are working with at that time. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the SH-1 versus the ZS100.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SH-1 and ZS100 is 88 and 87 respectively.

Often, it can be difficult to picture the difference between sensor sizing merely by reading specs. The graphic underneath might give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-1 and ZS100.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The SH-1 due to its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Panasonic ZS100 will deliver extra detail due to its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The older SH-1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.