Olympus SH-2 vs Panasonic ZS100

Here is a thorough overview of the Olympus SH-2 and Panasonic ZS100, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SH-2 (16MP) and the ZS100 (20MP) is relatively close but the SH-2 (1/2.3") and ZS100 (1") offer totally different sensor sizes.

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The SH-2 was manufactured 10 months prior to the ZS100 so they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SH-2 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic ZS100 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before delving into a detailed comparison, here is a brief summary of how the SH-2 grades vs the ZS100 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SH-2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS100. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus SH-2 Gallery and Panasonic ZS100 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera often, you have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus SH-2 enjoys outside measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS100 has specifications of 111mm x 65mm x 44mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 312 grams (0.69 lbs).

Examine the Olympus SH-2 and Panasonic ZS100 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use at that time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the SH-2 and the ZS100.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SH-2 and ZS100 is 88 and 87 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be tough to envision the contrast in sensor sizing merely by looking through specifications. The visual here may give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the SH-2 and ZS100.

To sum up, both the cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SH-2 featuring a smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Panasonic ZS100 will provide you with greater detail due to its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will let you crop photographs way more aggressively. The older SH-2 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.