Key Features
Dec 18 2012
Announced
12 megapixels
Resolution
| Brand | Olympus |
| Sensor Type | 1/1.7-inch |
| Sensor | CMOS |
| Weight | 346g |
| MSRP | $599USD |
Other similar cameras
Olympus XZ-1
Released Jan 26 2011 | 10MP resolution
Olympus SZ-31MR iHS
Released Feb 08 2012 | 16MP resolution
Olympus SZ-16 iHS
Released Jan 08 2013 | 16MP resolution
Overview of the XZ-2 iHS
Do you want to elevate your photography game with a powerful and compact camera? Look no further than the Olympus XZ-2 iHS! With an impressive range of features, excellent image quality and intuitive controls, this camera is perfect for both amateur and professional photographers. In this comprehensive review, we'll delve into the camera's standout features, performance, and user interface. Whether you're looking to capture high-quality portraits, action, or landscapes, the Olympus XZ-2 iHS has you covered. So, sit back and read on to find out about the camera that is making waves in the photography world!
Olympus XZ-2 iHS Pros and Cons
Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Olympus XZ-2 iHS camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!
Pros
Cons
Build and Construction
Body and dimensions
Olympus XZ-2 iHS
| Weather sealed | |
| Dimensions | 113 x 65 x 48mm |
| Weight | 346g |
| Thickness | 48mm |
Weather Sealing
The Olympus XZ-2 iHS is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.
Design and Handling
Main design features
| View Finder | Electronic (optional) |
| Screen Type | Tilting |
| Screen Resolution | 920k dots |
| Body type | Compact |
Suitable for:
| Photography | Above Avg. |
| Videography | Above Avg. |
| Travel | Above Avg. |
LCD Screen
This camera has a tilting 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 920k dots. This makes the Olympus XZ-2 iHS not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. The camera also features a touch screen, which adds to its ease of use.
Viewfinder
XZ-2 iHS includes a electronic (optional) viewfinder with no electronic viewfinder of resolution with a coverage of n/a and a magnification of n/a. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.
Image Quality
Olympus XZ-2 iHS has a 12MP sized CMOS sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 12 pixels. Olympus XZ-2 iHS has a native ISO range of 100 - 12800 which can be boosted to null - null. It can also save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.
Key Features
Dec 18 2012
Announced
100 - 12800
ISO Range
| Sensor | 1/1.7-inch |
| Extended ISO | null - null |
| Max resolution | 3968 x 2976 pixels |
DXO Sensor Scores
Overall
49 / 102
Color Depth
20.4 / 26.5
Dynamic Range
11.3 / 14.8
Low Light ISO
216 / 4505
DXO mark sensor scores
The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Olympus XZ-2 iHS camera has average color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also average, allowing it to retain low amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is poor, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the XZ-2 iHS is poor
Crop Factor
Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.
Size comparison
Crop factor calculator
Crop factor
1x
Full frame equivalent
24mm
This camera: 1/1.7-inch
24mm
Connectivity, storage, battery
| Storage | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Battery Life | 340 shots |
| Battery Model | Li-90B |
| HDMI | |
| USD | |
| Wireless Connectivity |
Storage
The Olympus XZ-2 iHS supports SD/SDHC/SDXC with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.
Battery
The Olympus XZ-2 iHS uses the Li-90B model of battery pack. This is rated for 340 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.
Photography Features
Flash
The Olympus XZ-2 iHS has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. It also offers a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.
Shutter
The Olympus XZ-2 iHS boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/2000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.
With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.
Autofocus
The Olympus XZ-2 iHS includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 35 number of focus points.
While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.
Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.
On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.
FAQ
The Olympus XZ-2 iHS features a CMOS sensor
No the XZ-2 iHS does not have weather sealing.
The Olympus XZ-2 iHS was announced on Dec 18 2012
Yes the XZ-2 iHS does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.
The XZ-2 iHS has a native ISO range of 100-12800, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.
Similar Camera Reviews
Blog Olympus XZ-1 Camera Review - A Comprehensive Guide to Enhanced Photography
This blog is an in-depth review of the Olympus XZ-1 camera. The blog highlights the features and benefits of the camera to help photographers make an informed buying decision. The review is backed by both technical analysis and practical usage of the camera.
Unleashing High-Quality Photography with the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS
Want to take stunning photos with a compact, easy-to-use camera? Discover the Olympus SZ-31MR iHS - a feature-packed device that offers exceptional image quality, impressive zooming capabilities, and advanced shooting modes.
Olympus SZ-16 iHS Camera Review: A Comprehensive Guide
The Olympus SZ-16 iHS is a versatile camera that combines advanced features with user-friendly controls. This review covers everything you need to know about this camera, from its design to its performance and image quality. Whether you're an amateur photographer or a professional looking for a backup camera, this guide will help you make an informed decision.