Olympus SH-1 vs Sony RX100 IV

The following is a in-depth assessment of the Olympus SH-1 vs Sony RX100 IV, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the SH-1 (16MP) and the RX100 IV (20MP) is relatively close but the SH-1 (1/2.3") and RX100 IV (1") have totally different sensor size.

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The SH-1 was unveiled 14 months prior to the RX100 IV which makes them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus SH-1 being a Compact camera and the Sony RX100 IV being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before diving right into a more detailed comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the SH-1 scores versus the RX100 IV in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SH-1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX100 IV. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SH-1 Gallery and Sony RX100 IV Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to travel with your camera frequently, you will need to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus SH-1 has got physical 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 Sony RX100 IV has proportions of 102mm x 58mm x 41mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.6") having a weight of 298 grams (0.66 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SH-1 vs Sony RX100 IV in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you use at that time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the SH-1 against the RX100 IV.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SH-1 and RX100 IV is 88 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to see the difference in sensor dimensions simply by looking through technical specs. The picture underneath will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-1 and RX100 IV.

As you have seen, each of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The SH-1 having a smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF trickier and the Sony RX100 IV will render more detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures more aggressively. The more aged SH-1 will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.