Olympus XZ-1 vs Samsung HZ25W

In this write-up, we will be analyzing the Olympus XZ-1 and Samsung HZ25W, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Olympus and Samsung. The resolution of the XZ-1 (10MP) and the HZ25W (12MP) is pretty similar but the XZ-1 (1/1.63") and HZ25W (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor dimensions.

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The XZ-1 was released 7 months later than the HZ25W which means that they are both of a similar age. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting through a thorough comparison, below is a short summary of how the XZ-1 matches up versus the HZ25W in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus XZ-1 & Samsung HZ25W. The complete galleries are available at Olympus XZ-1 Gallery & Samsung HZ25W Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera, you should consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus XZ-1 has exterior dimensions of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs) whilst the Samsung HZ25W has measurements of 116mm x 83mm x 92mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.6") having a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs).

Look at the Olympus XZ-1 and Samsung HZ25W in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you choose at that time. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the XZ-1 vs the HZ25W.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the XZ-1 and HZ25W is 88 and 70 respectively.

In many cases, it can be difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizing just by going over technical specs. The graphic below may provide you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the XZ-1 and HZ25W.

As you can tell, both of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The XZ-1 due to its bigger sensor will make achieving shallower DOF less difficult and the Samsung HZ25W will offer extra detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will let you crop photographs a little more aggressively. The newer XZ-1 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.