Olympus SP-820UZ vs Panasonic L1

Let's look much closer at the Olympus SP-820UZ versus Panasonic L1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a huge gap among the resolutions of the SP-820UZ (14MP) and L1 (7MP) and the SP-820UZ (1/2.3") and L1 (Four Thirds) offer totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The SP-820UZ was unveiled 5 years later than the L1 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus SP-820UZ being a Compact camera and the Panasonic L1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before going right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick overview of how the SP-820UZ matches up versus the L1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ and Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-820UZ Gallery and Panasonic L1 Gallery.

If you're aiming to lug around your camera often, you should take into account its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-820UZ enjoys outer measurements of 117mm x 78mm x 93mm (4.6" x 3.1" x 3.7") having a weight of 485 grams (1.07 lbs) whilst the Panasonic L1 has dimensions of 146mm x 87mm x 77mm (5.7" x 3.4" x 3.0") and a weight of 606 grams (1.34 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SP-820UZ versus Panasonic L1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with at that time. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the SP-820UZ and the L1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SP-820UZ and L1 is 69 and 65 respectively.

More often than not, it's tough to see the contrast in sensor measurements just by seeing specifications. The visual underneath might give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the SP-820UZ and L1.

Plainly, both of those cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The SP-820UZ with its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh more difficult and the Olympus SP-820UZ will produce extra detail having an extra 7MP. Greater resolution will let you crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more modern SP-820UZ will have an edge when it comes to sensor technology.