Olympus E-520 vs Sony TX1

In this article, we will be matching up the Olympus E-520 and Sony TX1, former being a Entry-Level DSLR while the latter is a Ultracompact by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the E-520 (10MP) and the TX1 (10MP) is relatively comparable but the E-520 (Four Thirds) and TX1 (1/2.4") come with totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-520 was unveiled 11 months before the TX1 so they are both of a similar age. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-520 being a Compact SLR camera and the Sony TX1 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the E-520 scores vs the TX1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-520 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-TX1. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-520 Gallery & Sony TX1 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera regularly, you need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-520 enjoys outside dimensions of 136mm x 92mm x 68mm (5.4" x 3.6" x 2.7") having a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs) while the Sony TX1 has proportions of 94mm x 58mm x 17mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs).

See the Olympus E-520 and Sony TX1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have attached at that time. Underneath is the front view scale comparison of the E-520 vs the TX1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-520 and TX1 is 68 and 96 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing only by going through a spec sheet. The photograph here should offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-520 and TX1.

Clearly, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact megapixels albeit not the same sensor sizing. The E-520 features the bigger sensor which is going to make achieving bokeh simpler. The older E-520 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.