Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic FZ80

Below is a detailed analysis of the Olympus SP-100 and Panasonic FZ80, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SP-100 (16MP) and the FZ80 (18MP) is very similar and both cameras offer the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SP-100 was launched 3 years prior to the FZ80 and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (SLR-like (bridge)).

Before going into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple overview of how the SP-100 grades vs the FZ80 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus SP-100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ80. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus SP-100 Gallery & Panasonic FZ80 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to lug around your camera, you will have to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus SP-100 has got physical dimensions of 122mm x 91mm x 133mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 5.2") and a weight of 594 grams (1.31 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ80 has measurements of 130mm x 94mm x 119mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 4.7") and a weight of 616 grams (1.36 lbs).

Look at the Olympus SP-100 and Panasonic FZ80 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are employing at the time. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the SP-100 and the FZ80.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SP-100 and FZ80 is 63 and 63 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very hard to picture the difference between sensor measurements merely by reading technical specs. The graphic below will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the SP-100 and FZ80.

As you have seen, both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different megapixels. You can expect to see the Panasonic FZ80 to offer you extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop images more aggressively. The older SP-100 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.