Olympus E-500 vs Sony HX1

Lets look a bit more closely at the Olympus E-500 versus Sony HX1, former is a Advanced DSLR while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the E-500 (8MP) and the HX1 (9MP) is relatively similar but the E-500 (Four Thirds) and HX1 (1/2.4") possess different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The E-500 was launched 4 years prior to the HX1 which is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-500 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Sony HX1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the E-500 matches up vs the HX1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-500 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-500 Gallery & Sony HX1 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera often, you have to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus E-500 offers exterior dimensions of 130mm x 95mm x 66mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.6") and a weight of 479 grams (1.06 lbs) while the Sony HX1 has specifications of 115mm x 83mm x 92mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 3.6") with a weight of 544 grams (1.20 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-500 versus Sony HX1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you use at that time. Following is the front view proportions comparison of the E-500 against the HX1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-500 and HX1 is 70 and 67 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to picture the contrast between sensor sizes simply by going over technical specs. The image underneath may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the E-500 and HX1.

As you can tell, each of the cameras have got different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The E-500 due to its bigger sensor is going to make shooting bokeh simpler and the Sony HX1 will deliver extra detail utilizing its extra 1MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots much more aggressively. The more aged E-500 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.