Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Sony W290

On this page, we will be matching up the Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Sony W290, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by companies Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and the W290 (12MP) is relatively close but the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and W290 (1/2.3") have different sensor dimensions.

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The XZ-2 iHS was brought out 3 years later than the W290 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a quick view of how the XZ-2 iHS grades versus the W290 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus XZ-2 iHS & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W290. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery & Sony W290 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera often, you'll need to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS features exterior dimensions of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") having a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs) and the Sony W290 has specifications of 98mm x 57mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs).

See the Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Sony W290 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are working with at that time. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the XZ-2 iHS and the W290.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the XZ-2 iHS and W290 is 85 and 94 respectively.

Quite often, it is very difficult to picture the difference in sensor sizing simply by looking through specs. The graphic below will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the XZ-2 iHS and W290.

All in all, the two cameras provide the same megapixel count albeit different sensor sizing. The XZ-2 iHS provides the bigger sensor which should make obtaining shallower depth of field easier. The more recent XZ-2 iHS provides an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.