Olympus E-5 vs Panasonic FZ40

Its time to take a deeper look at the Olympus E-5 and Panasonic FZ40, one being a Advanced DSLR and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-5 (12MP) and the FZ40 (14MP) is fairly close but the E-5 (Four Thirds) and FZ40 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor dimensions.

Samsung Releases Faster Versions of EVO MicroSD Cards

The E-5 was introduced 7 months later than the FZ40 so they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Panasonic FZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go into a complete comparison, here is a concise summation of how the E-5 grades versus the FZ40 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus E-5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ40. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-5 Gallery and Panasonic FZ40 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera, you will need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-5 enjoys physical measurements of 143mm x 117mm x 75mm (5.6" x 4.6" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ40 has measurements of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") along with a weight of 494 grams (1.09 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-5 and Panasonic FZ40 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are employing during that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the E-5 versus the FZ40.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-5 and FZ40 is 58 and 68 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to visualise the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through specs. The photograph below should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the E-5 and FZ40.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-5 with its larger sensor will make shooting bokeh easier and the Panasonic FZ40 will provide you with greater detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos way more aggressively. The fresher E-5 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.