Canon 1D MIV vs Olympus E-1

In this write-up, we are analyzing the Canon 1D MIV versus Olympus E-1, both Pro DSLR digital cameras by competitors Canon and Olympus. There is a noticeable difference between the image resolutions of the 1D MIV (16MP) and E-1 (5MP) and the 1D MIV (APS-H) and E-1 (Four Thirds) possess different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The 1D MIV was revealed 6 years after the E-1 which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Large SLR).

Before getting straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief view of how the 1D MIV scores versus the E-1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon EOS-1D Mark IV & Olympus E-1. The full galleries are viewable at Canon 1D MIV Gallery & Olympus E-1 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry around your camera frequently, you will need to think about its weight and volume. The Canon 1D MIV offers external measurements of 156mm x 157mm x 80mm (6.1" x 6.2" x 3.1") along with a weight of 1230 grams (2.71 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-1 has sizing of 141mm x 104mm x 81mm (5.6" x 4.1" x 3.2") with a weight of 735 grams (1.62 lbs).

Take a look at the Canon 1D MIV versus Olympus E-1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen during that time. Following is the front view scale comparison of the 1D MIV vs the E-1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the 1D MIV and E-1 is 51 and 59 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to visualize the difference between sensor sizes purely by checking specs. The picture underneath should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the 1D MIV and E-1.

All in all, each of the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The 1D MIV using its larger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field less difficult and the Canon 1D MIV will resolve more detail because of its extra 11 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop images far more aggressively. The younger 1D MIV provides an edge in sensor innovation.