Olympus E-600 vs Pentax S1

Here is a in-depth comparison of the Olympus E-600 versus Pentax S1, one being a Entry-Level DSLR and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the E-600 (12MP) and the S1 (14MP) is relatively well matched but the E-600 (Four Thirds) and S1 (1/2.3") offer totally different sensor measurements.

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The E-600 was released 18 months prior to the S1 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-600 being a Compact SLR camera and the Pentax S1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a in depth comparison, here is a short view of how the E-600 grades against the S1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-600 and Pentax Optio S1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-600 Gallery and Pentax S1 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera often, you'll need to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus E-600 enjoys outer measurements of 130mm x 94mm x 60mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.4") accompanied by a weight of 515 grams (1.14 lbs) and the Pentax S1 has specifications of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") and a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-600 versus Pentax S1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that time. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the E-600 compared to the S1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-600 and S1 is 71 and 93 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to envision the contrast between sensor sizing just by looking at specifications. The visual here should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the E-600 and S1.

To sum up, both of these cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-600 because of its bigger sensor will make achieving shallower DOF easier and the Pentax S1 will give greater detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures way more aggressively. The older E-600 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.