Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic ZS1

Lets examine more closely at the Olympus SP-100 versus Panasonic ZS1, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There is a considerable difference between the sensor resolutions of the SP-100 (16MP) and ZS1 (10MP) and the SP-100 (1/2.3") and ZS1 (1/2.5") use totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The SP-100 was revealed 4 years after the ZS1 which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SP-100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS1 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the SP-100 grades vs the ZS1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SP-100 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-100 Gallery & Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

For those who are planning to travel with your camera often, you have to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus SP-100 offers physical measurements of 122mm x 91mm x 133mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 5.2") and a weight of 594 grams (1.31 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS1 has measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SP-100 versus Panasonic ZS1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are using at that time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the SP-100 and the ZS1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SP-100 and ZS1 is 63 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to see the gap between sensor dimensions just by reading specs. The image here should offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-100 and ZS1.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The SP-100 having a bigger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Olympus SP-100 will offer you greater detail because of its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots much more aggressively. The younger SP-100 is going to have an advantage in sensor tech.