Olympus E-420 vs Panasonic TS1

On this page, we are analyzing the Olympus E-420 versus Panasonic TS1, one is a Entry-Level DSLR and the other is a Waterproof by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-420 (10MP) and the TS1 (12MP) is very similar but the E-420 (Four Thirds) and TS1 (1/2.3") boast different sensor sizing.

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The E-420 was revealed 7 months earlier than the TS1 which means that they are of a similar generation. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-420 being a Compact SLR camera and the Panasonic TS1 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the E-420 scores against the TS1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus E-420 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-420 Gallery and Panasonic TS1 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-420 has got physical measurements of 130mm x 91mm x 53mm (5.1" x 3.6" x 2.1") having a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs) while the Panasonic TS1 has dimensions of 98mm x 63mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.5" x 0.9") and a weight of 189 grams (0.42 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-420 versus Panasonic TS1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use at that time. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-420 and the TS1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-420 and TS1 is 77 and 93 respectively.

More often than not, it is very tough to visualize the difference between sensor sizes purely by reading a spec sheet. The pic below will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the E-420 and TS1.

Clearly, both of these cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-420 having a larger sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field less difficult and the Panasonic TS1 will deliver greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop photos more aggressively. The more aged E-420 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.