Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic SZ7

Here is a detailed comparison of the Olympus XZ-2 iHS versus Panasonic SZ7, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and the SZ7 (14MP) is fairly comparable but the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and SZ7 (1/2.3") posses different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The XZ-2 iHS was brought out 12 months later than the SZ7 and they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a complete comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the XZ-2 iHS scores against the SZ7 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus XZ-2 iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery & Panasonic SZ7 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to think about its weight and size. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS has got outside dimensions of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") with a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ7 has specifications of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs).

Look at the Olympus XZ-2 iHS versus Panasonic SZ7 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you choose during that time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the XZ-2 iHS vs the SZ7.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the XZ-2 iHS and SZ7 is 85 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it's difficult to visualize the difference in sensor sizing just by seeing technical specs. The photograph here will provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the XZ-2 iHS and SZ7.

As you have seen, both cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The XZ-2 iHS due to its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF simpler and the Panasonic SZ7 will produce more detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more recent XZ-2 iHS provides a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.