Olympus TG-630 iHS vs Panasonic SZ8

Following is a complete assessment of the Olympus TG-630 iHS versus Panasonic SZ8, one is a Waterproof and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the TG-630 iHS (12MP) and SZ8 (16MP) but both cameras provide the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The TG-630 iHS was announced 12 months earlier than the SZ8 and they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a in depth comparison, here is a short summary of how the TG-630 iHS matches up versus the SZ8 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus TG-630 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-630 iHS Gallery and Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera, you have to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus TG-630 iHS enjoys exterior dimensions of 98mm x 66mm x 22mm (3.9" x 2.6" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ8 has specifications of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Compare the Olympus TG-630 iHS versus Panasonic SZ8 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen during that time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the TG-630 iHS vs the SZ8.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the TG-630 iHS and SZ8 is 94 and 94 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes simply by looking at a spec sheet. The picture underneath will help offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the TG-630 iHS and SZ8.

Clearly, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different megapixels. You should anticipate the Panasonic SZ8 to resolve more detail with its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The more aged TG-630 iHS is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.