Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic GH2

Its time to look a bit more closely at the Olympus SP-100 and Panasonic GH2, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SP-100 (16MP) and the GH2 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the SP-100 (1/2.3") and GH2 (Four Thirds) possess different sensor sizing.

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The SP-100 was released 2 years later than the GH2 and that is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GH2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting through a step-by-step comparison, below is a short summary of how the SP-100 grades against the GH2 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SP-100 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-100 Gallery and Panasonic GH2 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera, you'll need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-100 has got physical measurements of 122mm x 91mm x 133mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 5.2") with a weight of 594 grams (1.31 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GH2 has dimensions of 124mm x 90mm x 76mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 3.0") along with a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SP-100 and Panasonic GH2 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are employing at the time. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the SP-100 versus the GH2.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SP-100 and GH2 is 63 and 70 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be difficult to imagine the gap between sensor sizing only by reading through specifications. The photograph here will give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the SP-100 and GH2.

Plainly, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact megapixels albeit different sensor sizing. The SP-100 offers the tinier sensor which is going to make getting shallower depth of field tougher. The newer SP-100 provides an edge when it comes to sensor tech.