Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic GX7

In this write-up, we are looking at the Olympus SP-100 and Panasonic GX7, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Advanced Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SP-100 (16MP) and the GX7 (16MP) is fairly well matched but the SP-100 (1/2.3") and GX7 (Four Thirds) come with different sensor sizes.

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The SP-100 was launched 3 months later than the GX7 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GX7 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going in to a in depth comparison, below is a quick overview of how the SP-100 matches up against the GX7 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus SP-100 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SP-100 Gallery and Panasonic GX7 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus SP-100 features external measurements of 122mm x 91mm x 133mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 5.2") and a weight of 594 grams (1.31 lbs) while the Panasonic GX7 has measurements of 123mm x 71mm x 55mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 2.2") along with a weight of 402 grams (0.89 lbs).

Check the Olympus SP-100 and Panasonic GX7 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you use at that time. Here is the front view over all size comparison of the SP-100 against the GX7.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SP-100 and GX7 is 63 and 81 respectively.

Quite often, it is hard to imagine the gap between sensor sizing just by checking specs. The visual here will offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-100 and GX7.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras offer the same exact megapixels but different sensor sizing. The SP-100 features the tinier sensor which will make getting shallow DOF more challenging.