Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic ZS80

The following is a extended comparison of the Olympus SP-100 versus Panasonic ZS80, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SP-100 (16MP) and the ZS80 (20MP) is relatively close and both cameras offer the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SP-100 was introduced 5 years prior to the ZS80 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus SP-100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS80 being a Compact camera.

Before diving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the SP-100 grades vs the ZS80 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SP-100 & Panasonic Lumix DC-ZS80. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SP-100 Gallery & Panasonic ZS80 Gallery.

If you are going to travel with your camera often, you're going to have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-100 has exterior measurements of 122mm x 91mm x 133mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 5.2") accompanied by a weight of 594 grams (1.31 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS80 has dimensions of 112mm x 69mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") and a weight of 327 grams (0.72 lbs).

Check the Olympus SP-100 versus Panasonic ZS80 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have at that moment. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the SP-100 vs the ZS80.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SP-100 and ZS80 is 63 and 86 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor dimensions simply by looking through technical specs. The pic underneath might provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-100 and ZS80.

As you have seen, the two cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You can count on the Panasonic ZS80 to render extra detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop photographs more aggressively. The more aged SP-100 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.