Olympus SH-2 vs Panasonic FP7

On this page, we are looking at the Olympus SH-2 and Panasonic FP7, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Ultracompact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SH-2 (16MP) and the FP7 (16MP) is fairly comparable and both cameras have the same sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The SH-2 was revealed 4 years later than the FP7 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus SH-2 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FP7 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick overview of how the SH-2 matches up vs the FP7 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus SH-2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP7. The full galleries are available at Olympus SH-2 Gallery & Panasonic FP7 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera often, you should consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus SH-2 enjoys physical measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") having a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Panasonic FP7 has proportions of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 147 grams (0.32 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SH-2 and Panasonic FP7 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you choose at the time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the SH-2 versus the FP7.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the SH-2 and FP7 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to see the difference in sensor sizing merely by going through technical specs. The graphic here may give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-2 and FP7.

As you have seen, both cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the exact same MP so you can expect comparable quality of photographs although you would want to factor the age of the cameras into account. The younger SH-2 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.