Olympus E-420 vs Panasonic ZS1

In this article, we are looking at the Olympus E-420 vs Panasonic ZS1, one being a Entry-Level DSLR and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-420 (10MP) and the ZS1 (10MP) is fairly close but the E-420 (Four Thirds) and ZS1 (1/2.5") use totally different sensor size.

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The E-420 was brought out 10 months prior to the ZS1 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-420 being a Compact SLR camera and the Panasonic ZS1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving through a full comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the E-420 scores versus the ZS1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus E-420 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-420 Gallery and Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera, you have to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-420 features external measurements of 130mm x 91mm x 53mm (5.1" x 3.6" x 2.1") with a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS1 has proportions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-420 vs Panasonic ZS1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with during that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the E-420 against the ZS1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-420 and ZS1 is 77 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it is very tough to visualise the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through a spec sheet. The photograph here might provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-420 and ZS1.

As you can see, both of those cameras offer the same exact megapixels but not the same sensor sizing. The E-420 provides the larger sensor which is going to make achieving shallower depth of field less difficult. The older E-420 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.