Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic ZS8

Its time to take a more detailed look at the Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic ZS8, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SH-1 (16MP) and the ZS8 (14MP) is very similar and they use the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SH-1 was introduced 2 years later than the ZS8 and that is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a in depth comparison, below is a concise view of how the SH-1 grades versus the ZS8 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus SH-1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS8. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SH-1 Gallery & Panasonic ZS8 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera often, you'll have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus SH-1 features external dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS8 has proportions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 210 grams (0.46 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic ZS8 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the SH-1 versus the ZS8.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the SH-1 and ZS8 is 88 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to visualize the gap between sensor sizing simply by reading technical specs. The photograph below should offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the SH-1 and ZS8.

As you have seen, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different MP. You can expect to see the Olympus SH-1 to offer greater detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images a little more aggressively. The younger SH-1 provides an edge when it comes to sensor tech.