Olympus VG-160 vs Panasonic FZ100

Following is a extended analysis of the Olympus VG-160 versus Panasonic FZ100, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the VG-160 (14MP) and the FZ100 (14MP) is very comparable and they possess the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The VG-160 was announced 18 months after the FZ100 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus VG-160 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FZ100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a concise overview of how the VG-160 scores against the FZ100 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus VG-160 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100. The whole galleries are available at Olympus VG-160 Gallery and Panasonic FZ100 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera often, you'll need to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus VG-160 enjoys external measurements of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") along with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FZ100 has specifications of 124mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") having a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs).

Compare the Olympus VG-160 versus Panasonic FZ100 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have at that time. Here is the front view sizing comparison of the VG-160 compared to the FZ100.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the VG-160 and FZ100 is 96 and 67 respectively.

In many cases, it's tough to see the difference in sensor sizes simply by seeing specifications. The pic below might offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the VG-160 and FZ100.

To sum up, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing and the exact same MP therefore you should expect comparable quality of pictures but you have to consider the production date of the cameras into account. The younger VG-160 will have a benefit in sensor technology.