Olympus FE-45 vs Panasonic F5

The following is a extended review of the Olympus FE-45 and Panasonic F5, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a sizable difference among the resolutions of the FE-45 (10MP) and F5 (14MP) but they use the same exact sensor size (1/2.3").

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The FE-45 was introduced 5 years before the F5 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the FE-45 matches up against the F5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus FE-45 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-F5. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus FE-45 Gallery & Panasonic F5 Gallery.

If you're going to travel with your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus FE-45 has outer dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") and a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) whilst the Panasonic F5 has proportions of 97mm x 58mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.3" x 0.9") and a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs).

See the Olympus FE-45 and Panasonic F5 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are employing at that time. Here is the front view size comparison of the FE-45 compared to the F5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the FE-45 and F5 is 95 and 96 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to visualise the contrast in sensor dimensions simply by checking out a spec sheet. The pic underneath should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the FE-45 and F5.

As you can see, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You can expect the Panasonic F5 to provide extra detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots far more aggressively. The more aged FE-45 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.