Olympus SP-820UZ vs Panasonic SZ8

Following is a in-depth assessment of the Olympus SP-820UZ and Panasonic SZ8, both Small Sensor Superzoom cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SP-820UZ (14MP) and the SZ8 (16MP) is pretty comparable and both cameras offer the identical sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SP-820UZ was introduced 16 months prior to the SZ8 which makes them a generation away from each other. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a in-depth comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the SP-820UZ scores against the SZ8 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-820UZ Gallery & Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus SP-820UZ offers exterior measurements of 117mm x 78mm x 93mm (4.6" x 3.1" x 3.7") accompanied by a weight of 485 grams (1.07 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ8 has specifications of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SP-820UZ and Panasonic SZ8 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose at that time. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the SP-820UZ versus the SZ8.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the SP-820UZ and SZ8 is 69 and 94 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to envision the contrast in sensor sizes just by going through specs. The picture here will give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-820UZ and SZ8.

All in all, both the cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same megapixels. You can expect the Panasonic SZ8 to provide extra detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop photographs way more aggressively. The more aged SP-820UZ will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.