Name: Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ
Brand: Olympus

Technical Specifications of Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ

Overall score

5.0

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Popularity

What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.

Sensor & Image

4.8

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Sensor size

What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

Main camera megapixels

What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). A higher resolution can capture more detail.

When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

Main camera pixel size

What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.

When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

Base ISO

What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.

When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

Max ISO

What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.

When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

Photo Features

5.7

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Lens mount

What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.

When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Built-in focus motor

What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.

When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

N. of focus points

What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.

When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.

When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

AF tracking

What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.

When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

Video & Audio

4.5

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Max video resolution

What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.

When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

Video bitrate

What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.

When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

Video bit depth

What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.

When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

Video chroma subsampling

What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.

When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

Video codecs

What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.

When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264

Display & Design

5.5

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Type

What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.

When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

bridge

Weight

What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.

When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

Width

What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.

When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

Height

What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.

When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

Thickness

What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.

When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

Battery & Power

5.2

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Battery life (CIPA)

What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.

When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

Battery capacity

What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).

When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

N/A

Removable battery

What it is: Indicates whether the camera battery can be removed and replaced by the user.

When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly during a long shoot or replace an aging battery.

Importance: LOW

USB Power Delivery (PD)

What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.

When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

Connectivity & Storage

2.8

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Wi-Fi connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.

When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi version

What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.

When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

N/A

Bluetooth connectivity

What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.

When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

Bluetooth version

What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.

When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A

USB Type-C

What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.

When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ vs the average camera

Why is Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ better than the average camera?

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In-body stabilization
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
What it is: A stabilization system that physically moves the image sensor to reduce shake during handheld shooting.
When it matters: When you often shoot handheld and want sharper results at slower shutter speeds without relying only on lens stabilization.
Importance: MEDIUM
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
Supports slow-motion video
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
Supports up to 240 fps high-speed video.
What it is: The ability to record at high frame rates so motion can be played back more slowly than real time.
When it matters: When you want to emphasize fast action, movement details, or dramatic moments in playback.
Importance: LOW
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
Has a touchscreen
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
What it is: Indicates that the display acts as an input device, recognizing touch gestures.
When it matters: When you interact with your device using intuitive taps and gestures.
Importance: LOW
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
26 Mbps higher video bitrate
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a higher video bitrate than the average camera (56 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 200 Mbps
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a higher video bitrate than the average camera (56 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.56 Mbps vs 30 Mbps
0.04 GB more storage
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.
What it is: The total built-in space available for apps, media, and files.
When it matters: When you keep large libraries of photos, videos, and apps directly on your device.
Importance: LOW
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.0.043 GB vs 0 GB
Has a touchscreen
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
In-body stabilization
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
Supports slow-motion video
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
26 Mbps higher video bitrate
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a higher video bitrate than the average camera (56 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
0.04 GB more storage
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a higher internal storage than the average camera (0 GB vs 0 GB). The average camera offers 0 GB of internal storage.

Connectivity & Storage

Why is Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ worse than the average camera?

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No hot shoe
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
47 mm thicker
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ is thicker than the average camera (93 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
22.8% heavier
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ is heavier than the average camera (485 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
Smaller sensor
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
1.91 µm smaller sensor pixels
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has smaller sensor pixels than the average camera (1.4 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average sensor pixel size is 3.34 µm.
2.2 MP lower sensor resolution
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a lower sensor resolution than the average camera (14 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a sensor resolution of 16.2 MP.
1 older
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ is older than the average camera (2012 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
August 2012
4.2 fps slower mechanical burst
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
No RAW photo capture
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
No manual focus mode
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
No manual exposure control
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ does not support manual exposure, the average camera does. 72% of cameras support manual exposure controls.
26 s shorter maximum exposure
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ supports a shorter maximum exposure than the average camera (4 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
1 fewer microphones
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
Smaller sensor
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: Full frame or larger
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a smaller sensor than the average camera (1/2.3" vs APS-C).1/2.3" vs APS-C
4.2 fps slower mechanical burst
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.
Importance: MEDIUM
Good value: At least 10 fps
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a slower mechanical burst rate than the average camera (1.5 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.1.5 fps vs 5.7 fps
1.91 µm smaller sensor pixels
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has smaller sensor pixels than the average camera (1.4 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average sensor pixel size is 3.34 µm.
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 3.5 µm
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has smaller sensor pixels than the average camera (1.4 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average sensor pixel size is 3.34 µm.1.43 µm vs 3.34 µm
2.2 MP lower sensor resolution
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a lower sensor resolution than the average camera (14 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a sensor resolution of 16.2 MP.
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). A higher resolution can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.
Importance: HIGH
Good value: At least 20 MP
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has a lower sensor resolution than the average camera (14 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a sensor resolution of 16.2 MP.14 MP vs 16.2 MP
No hot shoe
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
What it is: A mounting interface on top of the camera for attaching accessories such as flashes, triggers, or microphones.
When it matters: When you want to mount an external flash, trigger, microphone, or other camera-top accessory.
Importance: LOW
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ does not have a hot shoe, the average camera does.
1 fewer microphones
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.
What it is: The number of built-in microphones used to capture audio while recording video.
When it matters: More built-in microphones can capture broader, clearer sound when you record without an external microphone.
Importance: LOW
Good value: At least 2 microphones
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ has fewer microphones than the average camera (1 vs 2). The average camera has 2 microphones.1 vs 2
No RAW photo capture
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
What it is: The ability to save images in an uncompressed RAW format, preserving all sensor data for advanced post-processing.
When it matters: When you plan to edit your photos professionally and need the most data possible.
Importance: LOW
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ does not support RAW photo capture, the average camera does. 62.8% of cameras support RAW formats.
No manual focus mode
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.
What it is: A pro mode feature that allows the user to manually adjust the focus distance using a slider.
When it matters: When the autofocus struggles or you want a specific creative artistic effect.
Importance: LOW
Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ does not support manual focus, the average camera does. 71.7% of cameras include a manual focus mode.

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ?

Extremely versatile 40x optical zoom lens (22.4-896mm equivalent) ideal for both wide-angle landscapes and distant subjects
Excellent 1080p HD video recording with high-speed frame rate options (up to 240 fps) for slow-motion footage
Convenient and widely available AA battery operation
Compact and lightweight build, making it highly portable for travel
Reliable image stabilization reduces camera shake, particularly useful at maximum zoom

What customers dislike about Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ?

Lacks manual or semi-manual shooting controls, which can be limiting for advanced photographers
Slower autofocus speeds in low-light conditions
AA batteries can deplete quickly, requiring frequent replacements unless using high-capacity rechargeables
Noise can become apparent in low-light environments due to the smaller sensor size

Expert reviews

ephotozine.com

15/10/2012

Summary of the review

Olympus SP-820UZ Digital Camera Review

The Olympus SP-820UZ is a versatile ultra-zoom camera featuring a 14-megapixel CMOS sensor, iHS technology, and a 40x optical zoom lens (22.4-896mm) designed for wide to telephoto shooting. Key advantages highlighted include dual image stabilisation, full 1080p HD video recording, a 3-inch 460k-dot screen, and 12 magic filters, though it lacks robust, dedicated manual exposure controls. Conversely, the camera relies on four AA batteries rather than a rechargeable lithium-ion pack, creating added weight and potential expense. Additionally, the fixed screen lacks touch capabilities, and the focus on automated scene modes may not suit advanced users seeking fine-tuned control over settings.

computerbild.de

29/11/2012

Review: Olympus SP-820UZ Digital Camera

The Computer Bild review awards the Olympus SP-820UZ a "good" overall rating of 2.3. The camera stands out primarily due to its massive 37x optical zoom lens, which offers a 35mm equivalent focal length range of 24mm to 883mm. Powered by a 14-megapixel CMOS sensor and a TruePic V processor, it delivers fast performance with a prompt 0.3-second autofocus trigger time under daylight conditions. Key strengths highlighted in the review include its long battery life—capable of shooting over 2,000 photos on a single set of four standard AA batteries—and its support for modern SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, the review points out several distinct limitations that hold the camera back from a higher score. Notably, it lacks both an optical and an electronic viewfinder, forcing photographers to rely entirely on a fixed 3-inch LCD monitor that becomes difficult to read in direct sunlight. Additionally, its stabilization system relies on sensor-shift mechanics rather than superior lens-based optical stabilization, resulting in slightly diminished correction. The lack of physical control buttons forces users to navigate tedious menus to change parameters, and creative...

lesnumeriques.com

06/11/2012

Stylus SP-820 UZ Review - Les Numériques

The Olympus Stylus SP-820 UZ is an affordable bridge camera that stands out for its massive 40x optical zoom (22-896 mm equivalent) and rapid performance for its price point. Key strengths highlighted in the review include its surprisingly fast startup time of 1.6 seconds and highly responsive autofocus system. Additionally, it features a generous and comfortable rubberized grip that provides excellent handling, alongside full HD video recording that delivers a relatively sharp image.

camerarace.com

Undated

Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ - Review and Specifications

The CameraRace review of the Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ characterizes it as a compact, lightweight (485g) bridge camera ideal for daily use, featuring a 3-inch LCD and fast maximum shutter speed, though it earns a low overall technical score of 26. Key advantages include its portability, while disadvantages include poor landscape (9) and portrait (11) performance ratings. Critical limitations identified include the lack of environmental sealing for protection against dust or moisture and the absence of wireless connectivity. Despite good manual handling, the camera's technical performance falls significantly behind its bridge camera competition.

Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ Review | 108 Data compared

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Technical Specifications of Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ

Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ vs the average camera

Why is Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ better than the average camera?

Why is Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ worse than the average camera?

Graphic comparison of Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ and

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ?

What customers dislike about Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ?

Expert reviews

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