Olympus E-1 vs Pentax RZ18

Here, we are evaluating the Olympus E-1 vs Pentax RZ18, one is a Pro DSLR and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Pentax. There exists a significant gap among the image resolutions of the E-1 (5MP) and RZ18 (16MP) and the E-1 (Four Thirds) and RZ18 (1/2.3") offer totally different sensor dimensions.

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The E-1 was launched 8 years earlier than the RZ18 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-1 being a Large SLR camera and the Pentax RZ18 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the E-1 grades versus the RZ18 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus E-1 and Pentax Optio RZ18. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-1 Gallery and Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to travel with your camera regularly, you're going to have to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-1 enjoys external measurements of 141mm x 104mm x 81mm (5.6" x 4.1" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 735 grams (1.62 lbs) whilst the Pentax RZ18 has proportions of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-1 vs Pentax RZ18 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have chosen at that time. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the E-1 against the RZ18.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-1 and RZ18 is 59 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, it's tough to envision the contrast in sensor dimensions only by researching a spec sheet. The picture below might give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the E-1 and RZ18.

As you can see, the two cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The E-1 because of its larger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF easier and the Pentax RZ18 will provide you with more detail utilizing its extra 11 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more aged E-1 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.