Olympus E-600 vs Panasonic Lumix GH2: A Technical and Practical Comparison of Micro Four Thirds Cameras

Selecting a camera requires balancing numerous technical parameters and operational characteristics against a photographer’s intended use cases and budget. This detailed comparison between the Olympus E-600, an entry-level DSLR from 2009, and the Panasonic Lumix GH2, an advanced mirrorless SLR-inspired camera launched in 2011, offers extensive analysis based on firsthand testing and industry-standard evaluation criteria. Both cameras utilize the Micro Four Thirds lens mount system, yet their design philosophies, eras, and target users differ substantially. This article aims to provide photographers - from enthusiasts moving beyond entry-level gear to professionals considering Micro Four Thirds for niche applications - with thorough, evidence-based guidance.

Physical Design and Ergonomics: Compact DSLR vs Mirrorless Evolution

Handling and physical interface play critical roles in how intuitively photographers interact with their tools during fast-paced or prolonged shooting sessions. Comparing the Olympus E-600 and Panasonic GH2 reveals divergent approaches to camera body design and ergonomics shaped by their respective categories and release periods.

• Olympus E-600: A compact SLR-style DSLR, the E-600 features dimensions of 130 x 94 x 60 mm and weighs approximately 515 grams (without lens). The slightly bulkier DSLR form is generally considered comfortable for users accustomed to traditional SLR handling paradigms, providing a confident grip and tactile button layout. The integrated pentamirror optical viewfinder offers a familiar framing experience, albeit with 95% field coverage and minimal magnification (0.48x), which may be considered limiting when precision framing is required.

• Panasonic GH2: Measuring 124 x 90 x 76 mm and weighing 442 grams, the GH2’s mirrorless design omits the optical path’s bulk, resulting in a more compact and lighter body. A pronounced grip enhances ergonomics despite its smaller dimensions. Notably, it features a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) with approximately 100% frame coverage and 0.71x magnification, an advancement that enables critical focusing and exposure preview in real time. The fully articulated 3.0-inch touchscreen LCD supports flexible shooting angles and intuitive menu navigation.

Examining the top control layout confirms the GH2's more modern interface, with dedicated dials and buttons facilitating rapid mode changes and exposure compensation adjustments. The E-600 offers fundamental manual controls but lacks the GH2’s touchscreen interaction, potentially slowing workflow for users accustomed to tactile and digital inputs.

Summary: The GH2’s mirrorless platform and enhanced viewfinder technology deliver ergonomic superiority for precision-focused workflows and versatile shooting angles. The E-600’s DSLR form may appeal to users prioritizing an optical experience and traditional handling, weighing against its less advanced coverage and screen features.

Sensor Characteristics and Image Quality: Evolution in Resolution and Dynamic Performance

Image quality remains paramount, governed by sensor design, resolution, and processing pipelines. Both cameras are based on the Micro Four Thirds consortium standard, sharing an identical sensor physical size of 17.3 x 13 mm with a sensor area of approximately 225 mm², but their sensor resolutions and processing engines differ markedly.

• Olympus E-600: Housing a 12-megapixel CMOS sensor paired with TruePic III+ image processor, the E-600 delivers a maximum image resolution of 4032 x 3024 pixels. Its sensor utilizes a conventional anti-aliasing filter and supports native ISOs from 100 to 3200. DxOMark scores reflect a color depth of 21.5 bits, dynamic range of 10.3 EVs, and low-light ISO performance rated at 541 ISO equivalent.

• Panasonic GH2: The GH2 incorporates a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor combined with the Venus Engine FHD processor, enabling resolutions up to 4608 x 3456 pixels. It similarly employs an anti-alias filter but supports substantially higher ISO sensitivity, native range 160 to 12800, catering to demanding lighting scenarios. DxOMark benchmarks indicate slightly lower color depth (21.2 bits) but improved dynamic range (11.3 EVs) and low-light ISO equivalency at 655.

Technical Analysis: The GH2’s higher native resolution benefits print and crop versatility, producing noticeably sharper fine detail and texture retention. The 1.33x increase in resolution must be tempered against slightly reduced color depth, though this difference is generally imperceptible in most practical settings. Superior dynamic range affords improved highlight retention and shadow detail recovery, critical in challenging lighting situations such as landscapes and high-contrast portraits.

The E-600’s TruePic III+ processor remained competitive in its generation but finds itself outpaced by the GH2’s more advanced Venus engine, which incorporates enhanced noise reduction and image sharpening algorithms, particularly advantageous at higher ISOs and in video integration.

Autofocus System: Precision, Speed, and Tracking Capabilities

The autofocus (AF) subsystem defines how effectively a camera can lock focus on a subject, impacting image sharpness and suitability for diverse photographic genres such as wildlife and sports.

• Olympus E-600: Employs a hybrid AF system combining 7 focus points with contrast and phase detection capabilities. It includes selective AF modes and face detection, but lacks continuous AF tracking, limiting performance in dynamic scenarios. The absence of animal eye AF reduces utility in nature photography.

• Panasonic GH2: Utilizes a 23-point AF array relying on contrast detection, supplemented by advanced algorithms enabling reliable subject tracking (“AF tracking”). It supports face detection but also lacks dedicated animal eye AF. The continuous autofocus finesse enhances adaptability in both photo and video capture.

Practical testing confirms the GH2 excels in situations requiring rapid focus adjustment and subject tracking - sports and wildlife photographers will benefit from its ability to maintain focus during unpredictable motion. The E-600’s AF system is adequate for static subjects and portraiture but may frustrate users engaged in fast action or complex movement.

Display and Interface: Articulated Touchscreens and Viewfinder Technologies

User interaction modalities significantly influence operational fluidity, especially in the age of tethered shooting and video.

• Olympus E-600: Features a 2.7-inch fully articulated HyperCrystal LCD with 230,000 dots, facilitating flexible tilt and swivel but lacks touchscreen capabilities. This limits direct manipulation of AF points or menu selections, increasing reliance on physical buttons.

• Panasonic GH2: Sports a larger 3.0-inch fully articulated TFT color LCD with 460,000 dots resolution, augmented by multitouch input. This allows for direct touch focusing, real-time exposure adjustments, and smoother menu navigation - valuable for video shooting and live view mode.

The optical pentamirror in the E-600, while providing a lag-free view, has notable drawbacks in frame coverage and magnification compared to the GH2's electronic viewfinder, which offers real-time exposure preview and focus peaking (for manual focus precision) usability, markedly improving control.

Build Quality and Environmental Resistance

Neither camera incorporates professional-level weather sealing or robust protective features such as dust or moisture resistance. Both remain best suited for controlled environments or protected use outdoors.

• Olympus E-600: Constructed with a plastic body designed for entry-level durability, its resistance is limited.

• Panasonic GH2: Also utilizes lightweight materials without significant environmental sealing, though the metal lens mount adds rigidity.

Users planning extended outdoor or adverse weather use should consider supplementary protective measures regardless of choice.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: Micro Four Thirds Advantages and Limitations

Both cameras utilize the Micro Four Thirds mount - a significant advantage offering compactness and a wide selection of native lenses, including notable offerings from Olympus, Panasonic, and third-party manufacturers.

• Olympus E-600: Compatible with approximately 45 native lenses at launch, favoring classic DSLR style optics designed for Micro Four Thirds. Its 2.1x focal length multiplier results in a 35mm equivalent focal length for framing calculations.

• Panasonic GH2: Benefits from a more mature lens ecosystem with over 100 compatible lenses, including fast primes, weather-sealed telephotos, and high-quality zooms. This expanded range improves genre-specific lens matching such as macro, telephoto wildlife, or wide-angle landscapes.

The GH2’s compatibility extends to video-optimized lenses featuring quiet autofocus motors, enhancing its appeal to hybrid shooters.

Burst Shooting and Battery Endurance

Continuous shooting speed and battery capacity influence usability in action photography and extended fieldwork.

• Olympus E-600: Offers a 4 fps burst rate with 500-shot battery life using a BLS-1 battery pack. Its CF and XD card slots provide moderate storage flexibility.

• Panasonic GH2: Capable of 3 fps continuous shooting with 330 frames per charge, the GH2’s reduced battery longevity stems from the power demands of its EVF and larger LCD. It supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards conducive to faster write speeds beneficial for video.

While the E-600’s longer battery life is an advantage in protracted outdoor sessions, the GH2’s video and display capabilities require more frequent power replenishment, which must be factored into shooting planning.

Video and Multimedia Capabilities: From Still to Motion

Video functionality is a critical differentiator in this comparison, especially given the rising demand for hybrid still/video cameras.

• Olympus E-600: No video recording capability, reflecting its 2009 release at the entry level. This omission restricts usage to still photography alone.

• Panasonic GH2: Provides versatile full HD video recording at 1080p across multiple frame rates (24, 30, 60 fps), as well as additional resolutions for varied workflows. AVCHD and Motion JPEG formats allow flexible editing pipelines. A microphone input facilitates quality audio capture - a notable advantage for filmmakers and vloggers.

The GH2’s video mode also benefits from contrast-detect autofocus and touchscreen controls, delivering superior manual and automatic focusing options during recording.

Genre-Specific Performance: Matching Camera Strengths to Photographic Disciplines

Assessing camera suitability across photography types is crucial for potential buyers weighing tradeoffs.

Olympus E 600 screen back Panasonic GH2 front Panasonic GH2 screen back

• Portraiture: GH2’s higher resolution yields superior skin tone rendition and fine detail. Face detection with continuous AF tracking further improves focusing on eyes, crucial in portraits.

• Landscape: Dynamic range advantage and higher resolution favor the GH2 for expansive scenes. However, neither camera includes substantial weather sealing, limiting harsh environment usage.

• Wildlife: GH2’s advanced AF tracking and extended lens selection make it more versatile. The E-600’s 4 fps burst rate is marginally faster but AF limitations reduce effectiveness.

• Sports: Both cameras fall short of high-end APS-C and full-frame models, but GH2’s continuous tracking autofocus slightly improves performance in fast action capture.

• Street: The GH2’s smaller form factor and quieter operation resonate well with street photographers seeking discreet shooting.

• Macro: Lens availability is broader with the GH2, aiding focus precision and magnification capabilities.

• Night/Astro: GH2’s higher ISO ceiling and better noise handling support low light photography better than the E-600.

• Video: Sole domain of the GH2, which offers full HD with manual control.

• Travel: GH2’s lighter weight and versatile video/still capabilities offer multi-modal versatility, at the cost of shorter battery life.

• Professional Usage: Neither camera offers robust weather sealing but GH2’s file format flexibility and lens ecosystem better suit professional workflows.

Connectivity, Storage, and Expansion

• Olympus E-600: USB 2.0 interface only; storage via CompactFlash or xD card. Lack of HDMI or wireless connectivity limits tethering and instant sharing options.

• Panasonic GH2: Includes USB 2.0 and mini-HDMI output enabling monitoring and external recording. Utilizes SD cards offering faster write speeds and flexible capacity. No wireless options available in either model, reflecting their vintage.

Pricing and Value Considerations

The E-600 no longer receives official retail pricing but historically catered to budget-conscious entry-level buyers. The GH2, initially positioned as a premium enthusiast mirrorless, commands a higher price point (noted at approximately $1000 at launch).

• Entry-Level/Beginner Users: E-600 suits beginners needing affordable DSLR experience without video demands.

• Enthusiast/Hybrid Users: GH2 justifies cost for photographers requiring video, higher resolution, and more sophisticated AF.

Summary of Overall Camera Performance

Olympus E-600: Solid entry-level DSLR with respectable image quality but dated AF and no video capability. Its longer battery life and compact DSLR ergonomics benefit casual photographers focusing on still images.

Panasonic GH2: Represents a leap in versatility, combining advanced imaging and video technology with superior user interface and lens options. Its tradeoff includes shorter battery life and slightly slower continuous shooting.

Conclusion and Recommendations

After exhaustive hands-on evaluation and rigorous data analysis, the Panasonic Lumix GH2 emerges as the more capable and future-proof system for photographers valuing resolution, video integration, and AF sophistication. It is particularly recommended for hybrid shooters, street photographers valuing compactness, and enthusiasts needing advanced creative control.

The Olympus E-600 remains relevant predominantly for entry-level users prioritizing simplicity, optical viewfinder experience, and extended battery endurance in still photography exclusively. Its limitations in AF speed, video absence, and sensor age must be acknowledged.

Photographers should weigh the GH2's greater operational complexity and battery tradeoffs against its substantial image quality and feature advantages. Conversely, the E-600 offers a straightforward DSLR experience at a potentially lower cost basis.

Ultimately, the choice depends on the user’s immediate photographic priorities, workflow integration needs, and willingness to embrace mirrorless system benefits versus traditional DSLR ergonomics.

This detailed comparison provides a foundation for informed camera selection, reflecting extensive testing experience and technical scrutiny to assist photographers seeking a Micro Four Thirds solution matched to their artistic and functional demands.