Olympus FE-4000 vs Panasonic S2

The following is a detailed overview of the Olympus FE-4000 and Panasonic S2, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the FE-4000 (12MP) and the S2 (14MP) is pretty comparable and they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The FE-4000 was introduced 3 years earlier than the S2 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go through a more detailed comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the FE-4000 scores vs the S2 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus FE-4000 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus FE-4000 Gallery and Panasonic S2 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to travel with your camera often, you'll have to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus FE-4000 has got outside measurements of 95mm x 57mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs) while the Panasonic S2 has measurements of 98mm x 57mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 112 grams (0.25 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus FE-4000 and Panasonic S2 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the FE-4000 against the S2.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the FE-4000 and S2 is 95 and 96 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to picture the gap in sensor dimensions just by going through a spec sheet. The image below may offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the FE-4000 and S2.

Clearly, both the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should expect the Panasonic S2 to produce extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged FE-4000 will be behind in sensor innovation.