Olympus E-520 vs Panasonic FS12

Here, we are reviewing the Olympus E-520 vs Panasonic FS12, former is a Entry-Level DSLR while the other is a Ultracompact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-520 (10MP) and the FS12 (12MP) is fairly close but the E-520 (Four Thirds) and FS12 (1/2.3") offer totally different sensor size.

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The E-520 was revealed 8 months earlier than the FS12 which means that they are of a similar age. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-520 being a Compact SLR camera and the Panasonic FS12 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before getting into a full comparison, here is a brief overview of how the E-520 matches up versus the FS12 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus E-520 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS12. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-520 Gallery & Panasonic FS12 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera frequently, you're going to have to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus E-520 has got exterior measurements of 136mm x 92mm x 68mm (5.4" x 3.6" x 2.7") along with a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FS12 has specifications of 97mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 129 grams (0.28 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-520 vs Panasonic FS12 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are using at that time. Following is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-520 against the FS12.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the E-520 and FS12 is 68 and 95 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to envision the difference in sensor sizes purely by viewing technical specs. The image underneath might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-520 and FS12.

As you have seen, both the cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The E-520 using its larger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF easier and the Panasonic FS12 will provide you with more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more aged E-520 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.