Olympus E-M1 vs Panasonic SZ7

Here is a in-depth overview of the Olympus E-M1 and Panasonic SZ7, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-M1 (16MP) and the SZ7 (14MP) is fairly close but the E-M1 (Four Thirds) and SZ7 (1/2.3") offer totally different sensor sizing.

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

The E-M1 was launched 22 months later than the SZ7 making them a generation apart from one another. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-M1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ7 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a short highlight of how the E-M1 grades against the SZ7 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus OM-D E-M1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ7. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-M1 Gallery and Panasonic SZ7 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera, you have to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus E-M1 has exterior measurements of 130mm x 94mm x 63mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.5") with a weight of 497 grams (1.10 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ7 has specifications of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 133 grams (0.29 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-M1 and Panasonic SZ7 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilising at that moment. The following is a front view dimension comparison of the E-M1 versus the SZ7.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-M1 and SZ7 is 71 and 95 respectively.

More often than not, it can be tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing only by viewing a spec sheet. The visual underneath should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the E-M1 and SZ7.

As you can see, the two cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-M1 due to its larger sensor will make getting bokeh simpler and the Olympus E-M1 will result in extra detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop pics way more aggressively. The fresher E-M1 is going to have an edge in sensor tech.