Olympus SP-820UZ vs Panasonic GX850

In this article, we are matching up the Olympus SP-820UZ vs Panasonic GX850, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SP-820UZ (14MP) and the GX850 (16MP) is fairly close but the SP-820UZ (1/2.3") and GX850 (Four Thirds) come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The SP-820UZ was announced 5 years prior to the GX850 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SP-820UZ being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GX850 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight into a complete comparison, below is a short overview of how the SP-820UZ grades vs the GX850 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX850. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-820UZ Gallery and Panasonic GX850 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera frequently, you should factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-820UZ has physical measurements of 117mm x 78mm x 93mm (4.6" x 3.1" x 3.7") with a weight of 485 grams (1.07 lbs) and the Panasonic GX850 has dimensions of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") having a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Examine the Olympus SP-820UZ vs Panasonic GX850 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you choose at that moment. Following is the front view dimension comparison of the SP-820UZ against the GX850.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SP-820UZ and GX850 is 69 and 90 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to envision the difference in sensor sizing simply by viewing specifications. The graphic underneath will help give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the SP-820UZ and GX850.

Plainly, each of these cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The SP-820UZ having a smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Panasonic GX850 will result in more detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos far more aggressively. The older SP-820UZ will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.