Olympus XZ-1 vs Samsung HZ50W

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Olympus XZ-1 and Samsung HZ50W, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Olympus and Samsung. There exists a big gap between the image resolutions of the XZ-1 (10MP) and HZ50W (14MP) and the XZ-1 (1/1.63") and HZ50W (1/2.3") come with different sensor sizing.

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The XZ-1 was unveiled 9 months after the HZ50W and they are of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus XZ-1 being a Compact camera and the Samsung HZ50W being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going through a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the XZ-1 scores against the HZ50W for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus XZ-1 and Samsung HZ50W. The full galleries are available at Olympus XZ-1 Gallery and Samsung HZ50W Gallery.

When you are going to carry around your camera, you should consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus XZ-1 features exterior measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") having a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs) while the Samsung HZ50W has dimensions of 116mm x 83mm x 91mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs).

Look at the Olympus XZ-1 and Samsung HZ50W in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have at that moment. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the XZ-1 versus the HZ50W.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the XZ-1 and HZ50W is 88 and 70 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to picture the difference between sensor sizes simply by reading specs. The image below will give you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the XZ-1 and HZ50W.

All in all, the 2 cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The XZ-1 using its larger sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Samsung HZ50W will deliver greater detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images far more aggressively. The more modern XZ-1 should have a benefit in sensor innovation.