Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic ZS20

Following is a complete analysis of the Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Panasonic ZS20, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and the ZS20 (14MP) is relatively well matched but the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and ZS20 (1/2.3") feature different sensor dimensions.

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The XZ-2 iHS was manufactured 8 months after the ZS20 so they are of a similar age. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a in depth comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the XZ-2 iHS scores vs the ZS20 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus XZ-2 iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS20. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery & Panasonic ZS20 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry around your camera frequently, you are going to need to think about its weight and size. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS features exterior measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") and a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS20 has specifications of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

See the Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Panasonic ZS20 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Underneath is the front view sizing comparison of the XZ-2 iHS and the ZS20.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the XZ-2 iHS and ZS20 is 85 and 92 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to imagine the gap between sensor sizes merely by checking a spec sheet. The image below will offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the XZ-2 iHS and ZS20.

As you can see, each of these cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The XZ-2 iHS due to its bigger sensor is going to make getting bokeh easier and the Panasonic ZS20 will resolve extra detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots much more aggressively. The younger XZ-2 iHS should have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.