Olympus 8000 vs Olympus XZ-2 iHS

Here is a extended review of the Olympus 8000 versus Olympus XZ-2 iHS, both Small Sensor Compact cameras and both are sold by Olympus. The resolution of the 8000 (12MP) and the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) is very comparable but the 8000 (1/2.3") and XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") boast totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The 8000 was revealed 4 years earlier than the XZ-2 iHS and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the 8000 grades against the XZ-2 iHS with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus Tough 8000 and Olympus XZ-2 iHS. The full galleries are available at Olympus 8000 Gallery and Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera regularly, you'll need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus 8000 comes with physical measurements of 95mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") having a weight of 182 grams (0.40 lbs) whilst the Olympus XZ-2 iHS has measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") and a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus 8000 versus Olympus XZ-2 iHS in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose during that time. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the 8000 versus the XZ-2 iHS.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the 8000 and XZ-2 iHS is 94 and 85 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to envision the contrast in sensor sizing only by seeing a spec sheet. The photograph underneath will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the 8000 and XZ-2 iHS.

As you can see, both the cameras provide the same resolution but not the same sensor sizing. The 8000 has the smaller sensor which will make obtaining bokeh more difficult. The older 8000 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.