Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Sigma SD15

Here, we are reviewing the Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Sigma SD15, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Olympus and Sigma. There exists a sizeable gap among the image resolutions of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and SD15 (5MP) and the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and SD15 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor sizes.

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The XZ-2 iHS was announced 2 years later than the SD15 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus XZ-2 iHS being a Compact camera and the Sigma SD15 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a short introduction of how the XZ-2 iHS grades vs the SD15 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Sigma SD15. The whole galleries are available at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery and Sigma SD15 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry your camera often, you're going to have to take into account its weight and measurements. 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) while the Sigma SD15 has proportions of 144mm x 107mm x 81mm (5.7" x 4.2" x 3.2") with a weight of 750 grams (1.65 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Sigma SD15 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the XZ-2 iHS versus the SD15.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the XZ-2 iHS and SD15 is 85 and 59 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to see the difference in sensor sizing purely by checking out specs. The graphic below will help offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the XZ-2 iHS and SD15.

All in all, the two cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The XZ-2 iHS using its smaller sensor will make achieving bokeh harder and the Olympus XZ-2 iHS will provide extra detail with its extra 7 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop images way more aggressively. The fresher XZ-2 iHS is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.