Olympus FE-45 vs Panasonic XS1

Below is a extensive assessment of the Olympus FE-45 versus Panasonic XS1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap among the sensor resolutions of the FE-45 (10MP) and XS1 (16MP) but they feature the exact same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The FE-45 was unveiled 5 years prior to the XS1 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras come with the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting straight into a complete comparison, below is a short summary of how the FE-45 matches up vs the XS1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus FE-45 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus FE-45 Gallery and Panasonic XS1 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera often, you have to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus FE-45 enjoys exterior dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") along with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) whilst the Panasonic XS1 has proportions of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") with a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs).

Compare the Olympus FE-45 versus Panasonic XS1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have at that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the FE-45 vs the XS1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FE-45 and XS1 is 95 and 97 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to picture the contrast in sensor measurements simply by seeing a spec sheet. The visual underneath may offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the FE-45 and XS1.

As you can see, both cameras have got the exact same sensor measurements albeit different megapixels. You should count on the Panasonic XS1 to show greater detail having an extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures much more aggressively. The older FE-45 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.