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Value
The Olympus SP-570UZ costs $499, the same as its predecessor. This is pricey for a compact digital camera these days, but Olympus knows it. At this price, they know they’re competing with low-end DSLRs, said product manager Sally Smith Clemens. They are vying for consumers who want “the all-in-one solution” of the versatile lens, instead of carrying around a chunky DSLR and three lenses in a huge bag. The SP-570 is less expensive than buying a DSLR and three lenses, certainly. It’s pricey, but comes with some of the biggest features on the market.
Comparison to Olympus SP-560UZ
The SP-560UZ has less resolution on its 8-megapixel CCD, but it’s paired with the same image processor, so many of its performance features are the same as on the new model. For instance, the normal-speed Burst mode is still 1.2 fps. Face detection is included once again. The same wide array of exposure modes are available. The SP-560’s lens is one millimeter narrower and also shorter with its 18x, 27-486mm range. The lens has the same sensor-shift image stabilization system that pairs up with Olympus’ older digital image stabilization technology. The LCD screen is slightly smaller, at 2.5 inches, but the resolution is just the same at 230,000 pixels. The Olympus SP-560UZ doesn’t seem to offer any advantages over the SP-570, but still appears on the manufacturer’s website with the same $499 price. This will likely fall when the superior SP-570 becomes available.
Who It’s For
Point-and-Shooters – The newly-redesigned SP-570 looks more like a DSLR, and will scare off these users even if it does have a tutorial-like function guide.
Budget Consumers – At $499, the SP-570 isn’t built for those on the cheap.
Gadget Freaks – The Olympus SP-570UZ will make those who like to brag about the size of their lenses very happy. It doesn’t have any brand new gadgetry, but has old favorites like face detection and dual image stabilization.
Manual Control Freaks – There is a fully Manual mode, but with no jog dial to easily access the shutter speed and aperture, options are tougher to get to than on most DSLRs.
Pros/ Serious Hobbyists – The SP-570 has a versatile lens and can sync with wireless flash systems, making it a good option for hobbyists.
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