Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic ZS20

In this article, we will be analyzing the Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic ZS20, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SP-100 (16MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is pretty close and they feature the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SP-100 was revealed 22 months after the ZS20 which makes the cameras a generation away from one another. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS20 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight into a detailed comparison, below is a short view of how the SP-100 scores vs the ZS20 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SP-100 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-100 Gallery and Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry around your camera often, you'll have to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus SP-100 has got outside dimensions of 122mm x 91mm x 133mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 5.2") having a weight of 594 grams (1.31 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS20 has specifications of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus SP-100 vs Panasonic ZS20 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have attached during that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the SP-100 versus the ZS20.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SP-100 and ZS20 is 63 and 92 respectively.

More often than not, it is difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizes merely by researching specs. The image underneath will help offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SP-100 and ZS20.

As you can plainly see, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Olympus SP-100 to result in extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots far more aggressively. The more recent SP-100 provides an edge with regard to sensor technology.