Olympus's budget superzoom of 2010 — 12MP CCD, 28-420mm 15x zoom, SD storage, 1GB internal memory, AA power
The Olympus SP-600UZ was launched in early 2010 alongside the 30x SP-800UZ as the affordable half of a superzoom pairing, reaching shops around March 2010 at roughly $250. Notably for Olympus, this generation switched from xD-Picture Cards to standard SD storage, marking the end of the proprietary format era in the SP line.
It combines a 12-megapixel 1/2.33-inch CCD with a 15x zoom spanning a 28-420mm-equivalent range at f/3.5-5.4. The rear LCD measures 2.7 inches, a generous 1GB of internal memory backs up the SD/SDHC slot (SDXC is not supported), and video records in HD with AF tracking available for moving subjects. Power comes from AA batteries rated around 340 shots with alkalines, and the camera weighs about 350g.
As a budget bridge camera it suits beginners stepping up from pocket compacts who want real telephoto reach without complexity or cost. The 28mm wide end and grippy body make it comfortable for travel, while AA power keeps it running cheaply. It lacks the raw capture and faster apertures of enthusiast superzooms, so expectations should stay at the family-camera level.
Check the AA battery compartment for leak damage and confirm the door latch still holds tension. SD storage means no card headaches, though note SDXC cards will not work. Test the zoom motor through the full 15x travel, verify HD movie mode records with sound, and inspect the lens front element, which sits exposed when the automatic cover ages.