Olympus E-1 vs Sony RX1

Following is a comprehensive review of the Olympus E-1 and Sony RX1, one is a Pro DSLR and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. There exists a huge gap among the resolutions of the E-1 (5MP) and RX1 (24MP) and the E-1 (Four Thirds) and RX1 (Full frame) feature different sensor size.

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The E-1 was unveiled 10 years earlier than the RX1 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-1 being a Large SLR camera and the Sony RX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a in depth comparison, below is a concise view of how the E-1 scores versus the RX1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus E-1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-1 Gallery and Sony RX1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera regularly, you will want to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus E-1 has got outer dimensions of 141mm x 104mm x 81mm (5.6" x 4.1" x 3.2") having a weight of 735 grams (1.62 lbs) whilst the Sony RX1 has sizing of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") having a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-1 and Sony RX1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at that moment. Following is the front view size comparison of the E-1 and the RX1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-1 and RX1 is 59 and 79 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor sizes merely by looking through technical specs. The pic here will provide you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-1 and RX1.

As you have seen, the two cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-1 with its smaller sensor is going to make shooting bokeh more challenging and the Sony RX1 will provide you with more detail having an extra 19 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos far more aggressively. The more aged E-1 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.