Olympus E-520 vs Panasonic ZR1

Below, we will be analyzing the Olympus E-520 versus Panasonic ZR1, former being a Entry-Level DSLR while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-520 (10MP) and the ZR1 (12MP) is relatively close but the E-520 (Four Thirds) and ZR1 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The E-520 was announced 11 months prior to the ZR1 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-520 being a Compact SLR camera and the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera.

Before going through a more detailed comparison, below is a brief view of how the E-520 scores vs the ZR1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-520 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-520 Gallery & Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera often, you're going to have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus E-520 enjoys outside measurements of 136mm x 92mm x 68mm (5.4" x 3.6" x 2.7") accompanied by a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs) and the Panasonic ZR1 has specifications of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-520 versus Panasonic ZR1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you select during that time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the E-520 compared to the ZR1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-520 and ZR1 is 68 and 94 respectively.

Normally, it's tough to envision the gap in sensor sizing only by looking through technical specs. The visual below should give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-520 and ZR1.

As you have seen, both cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-520 with its bigger sensor will make getting shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic ZR1 will result in greater detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will help you crop shots much more aggressively. The older E-520 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.