SP-100ee another selection of samples ( 9 images)

The problem is not just the sensor size but the pixel loading. 12mp is really the absolute maximum these sensors can handle, if that much, and your SH-50 has just got too many at 16mp. The XZ-10 does a pretty good job with its 12mp. Marketing say they need 16mp minimum and the technical people have to do their best to patch the ensuing damage.

I am looking at buying a Superzoom and probably will go for the Canon SX50 for all its foibles just because it has 12mp and the SP100EE is showing really heavy artefacts typical of an overloaded 1/2.3" sensor, which just means the resolution is in practice probably less than a 12mp. The fact that Olympus seem to not be sending the camera out for review is also worrying. I think they are just relying on the dot sight to sell it.

Henry Falkner wrote:

KEV1N wrote:

I understand there is no problem with the camera, and that a larger sensor is able to render a better amount of detail.

The discussion here is relating to the way these small sensors render detail, and compare like for like sensor size. Some do it better, or with a more pleasing look than others.

The upshot is, for landscapes the 1/2.3 BSI-CMOS sensor is not ideal. I did a quick run-around yesterday to illustrate the situation with my SH-50 -

The horizon at 100% viewing shows over-sharpening, but the trees are mush -

If I were specifically interested in landscapes, I would look at larger sensors, possibly a different brand as well.

My SH-50 does the jobs I bought it for - and for Gannets In Flight and the moon, the red dot sight in the SP-100EE would make life a lot easier. But neither is good for serious landscape stuff.

Henry