Olympus E-30 vs Panasonic FP1

Below, we will be reviewing the Olympus E-30 and Panasonic FP1, one being a Advanced DSLR and the latter is a Ultracompact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-30 (12MP) and the FP1 (12MP) is relatively similar but the E-30 (Four Thirds) and FP1 (1/2.3") feature different sensor sizing.

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The E-30 was brought out 9 months prior to the FP1 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-30 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Panasonic FP1 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go in to a more detailed comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the E-30 matches up against the FP1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-30 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP1. The entire galleries are available at Olympus E-30 Gallery and Panasonic FP1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera often, you're going to have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-30 offers exterior measurements of 142mm x 108mm x 75mm (5.6" x 4.3" x 3.0") along with a weight of 695 grams (1.53 lbs) and the Panasonic FP1 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") along with a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-30 and Panasonic FP1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you choose at that time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the E-30 against the FP1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the E-30 and FP1 is 60 and 95 respectively.

Often, it's tough to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing only by reading specs. The graphic below may provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-30 and FP1.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras posses the exact same resolution albeit different sensor sizing. The E-30 comes with the bigger sensor which will make obtaining bokeh easier. The older E-30 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.