Olympus E-M5 II vs Panasonic SZ1

Here, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-M5 II and Panasonic SZ1, one being a Advanced Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-M5 II (16MP) and the SZ1 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the E-M5 II (Four Thirds) and SZ1 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor size.

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The E-M5 II was launched 3 years later than the SZ1 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-M5 II being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ1 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a thorough comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the E-M5 II matches up against the SZ1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus OM-D E-M5 II and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-M5 II Gallery and Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-M5 II features physical dimensions of 124mm x 85mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 469 grams (1.03 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ1 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-M5 II and Panasonic SZ1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select during that time. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the E-M5 II compared to the SZ1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-M5 II and SZ1 is 80 and 95 respectively.

Quite often, it can be tough to envision the difference between sensor sizing simply by checking specs. The photograph below might give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-M5 II and SZ1.

As you can plainly see, both cameras come with the identical megapixels albeit not the same sensor sizing. The E-M5 II uses the bigger sensor which will make achieving shallower depth of field simpler. The younger E-M5 II will have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.