Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic S2

Let's take a closer look at the Olympus SP-100 and Panasonic S2, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SP-100 (16MP) and the S2 (14MP) is relatively similar and they possess the exact same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SP-100 was unveiled 2 years later than the S2 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SP-100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic S2 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a brief overview of how the SP-100 grades versus the S2 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SP-100 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-100 Gallery and Panasonic S2 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera regularly, you should take into account its weight and size. The Olympus SP-100 enjoys outside dimensions of 122mm x 91mm x 133mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 5.2") with a weight of 594 grams (1.31 lbs) while the Panasonic S2 has specifications of 98mm x 57mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") and a weight of 112 grams (0.25 lbs).

Check the Olympus SP-100 and Panasonic S2 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Following is the front view overall size comparison of the SP-100 vs the S2.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the SP-100 and S2 is 63 and 96 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to visualise the difference between sensor sizing purely by reading specs. The graphic here will offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the SP-100 and S2.

All in all, the two cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements albeit not the same MP. You should count on the Olympus SP-100 to deliver greater detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop pictures much more aggressively. The fresher SP-100 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.