Olympus SP-820UZ vs Panasonic FX580

Here is a in-depth overview of the Olympus SP-820UZ and Panasonic FX580, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SP-820UZ (14MP) and the FX580 (12MP) is relatively similar and both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SP-820UZ was unveiled 3 years later than the FX580 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple summation of how the SP-820UZ grades versus the FX580 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX580. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-820UZ Gallery & Panasonic FX580 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera, you're going to have to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus SP-820UZ offers external dimensions of 117mm x 78mm x 93mm (4.6" x 3.1" x 3.7") along with a weight of 485 grams (1.07 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FX580 has proportions of 95mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

Check the Olympus SP-820UZ and Panasonic FX580 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you select during that time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the SP-820UZ vs the FX580.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the SP-820UZ and FX580 is 69 and 95 respectively.

In many cases, it can be tough to envision the gap between sensor sizing merely by reading specs. The visual underneath should give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the SP-820UZ and FX580.

All in all, each of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You can count on the Olympus SP-820UZ to offer you greater detail having an extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop pictures more aggressively. The more modern SP-820UZ is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.