Olympus E-400 vs Panasonic S1

Here, we are evaluating the Olympus E-400 versus Panasonic S1, one is a Entry-Level DSLR and the other is a Pro Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There is a significant difference among the image resolutions of the E-400 (10MP) and S1 (24MP) and the E-400 (Four Thirds) and S1 (Full frame) have totally different sensor size.

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The E-400 was launched 13 years before the S1 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-400 being a Compact SLR camera and the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple view of how the E-400 grades against the S1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus E-400 and Panasonic Lumix DC-S1. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-400 Gallery and Panasonic S1 Gallery.

If you're aiming to travel with your camera often, you have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-400 has got physical dimensions of 130mm x 91mm x 53mm (5.1" x 3.6" x 2.1") along with a weight of 435 grams (0.96 lbs) while the Panasonic S1 has dimensions of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") having a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-400 versus Panasonic S1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you select during that time. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the E-400 against the S1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the E-400 and S1 is 77 and 54 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to envision the difference in sensor dimensions just by going through a spec sheet. The image below will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-400 and S1.

As you can see, the two cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The E-400 featuring a smaller sensor will make achieving shallow DOF more challenging and the Panasonic S1 will provide more detail utilizing its extra 14MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos way more aggressively. The more aged E-400 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.