Olympus XZ-1 vs Sony W230

Here, we are reviewing the Olympus XZ-1 versus Sony W230, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by competitors Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the XZ-1 (10MP) and the W230 (12MP) is fairly close but the XZ-1 (1/1.63") and W230 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor dimensions.

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The XZ-1 was unveiled 24 months later than the W230 making them a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a short summation of how the XZ-1 grades versus the W230 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus XZ-1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W230. The full galleries are available at Olympus XZ-1 Gallery and Sony W230 Gallery.

If you're aiming to lug around your camera, you will need to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus XZ-1 features physical dimensions 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 Sony W230 has sizing of 95mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Check out the Olympus XZ-1 versus Sony W230 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have at that moment. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the XZ-1 vs the W230.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the XZ-1 and W230 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to visualise the gap in sensor measurements just by viewing a spec sheet. The photograph here should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the XZ-1 and W230.

As you can see, each of the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The XZ-1 with its larger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF easier and the Sony W230 will provide you with more detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop photos way more aggressively. The younger XZ-1 is going to have a benefit in sensor technology.