Olympus VH-515 vs Sony HX5

Here, we will be comparing the Olympus VH-515 versus Sony HX5, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the VH-515 (12MP) and the HX5 (10MP) is pretty comparable but the VH-515 (1/2.3") and HX5 (1/2.4") have totally different sensor dimensions.

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The VH-515 was introduced 2 years later than the HX5 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a full comparison, here is a short summary of how the VH-515 matches up against the HX5 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus VH-515 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX5. The whole galleries are available at Olympus VH-515 Gallery and Sony HX5 Gallery.

If you're planning to lug around your camera regularly, you need to take into account its weight and volume. The Olympus VH-515 offers external dimensions of 102mm x 60mm x 21mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 0.8") along with a weight of 152 grams (0.34 lbs) whilst the Sony HX5 has sizing of 102mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Compare the Olympus VH-515 versus Sony HX5 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are using at that moment. Here is a front view scale comparison of the VH-515 vs the HX5.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the VH-515 and HX5 is 95 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, it's hard to envision the contrast in sensor measurements simply by going through specs. The graphic below may provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the VH-515 and HX5.

All in all, each of these cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The VH-515 with its bigger sensor will make shooting bokeh easier and the Olympus VH-515 will produce extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots way more aggressively. The more modern VH-515 will have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.