Olympus XZ-1 vs Panasonic SZ7

Here is a extensive comparison of the Olympus XZ-1 vs Panasonic SZ7, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a substantial difference among the resolutions of the XZ-1 (10MP) and SZ7 (14MP) and the XZ-1 (1/1.63") and SZ7 (1/2.3") come with different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The XZ-1 was launched 11 months prior to the SZ7 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the XZ-1 grades against the SZ7 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus XZ-1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus XZ-1 Gallery & Panasonic SZ7 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera regularly, you need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus XZ-1 has outer measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ7 has dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus XZ-1 vs Panasonic SZ7 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are using during that time. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the XZ-1 compared to the SZ7.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the XZ-1 and SZ7 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to picture the contrast in sensor sizing just by viewing a spec sheet. The graphic underneath should give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the XZ-1 and SZ7.

Clearly, both of these cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The XZ-1 featuring a larger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh easier and the Panasonic SZ7 will render greater detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop images a little more aggressively. The older XZ-1 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.