Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic 3D1

Below is a comprehensive analysis of the Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic 3D1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the 3D1 (12MP) is very comparable but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and 3D1 (1/2.3") provide different sensor size.

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The E-P1 was announced 3 years before the 3D1 and that is a fairly serious gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic 3D1 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the E-P1 grades versus the 3D1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-P1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-3D1. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-P1 Gallery and Panasonic 3D1 Gallery.

If you are aiming to lug around your camera often, you are going to need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-P1 comes with exterior measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") along with a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) while the Panasonic 3D1 has measurements of 108mm x 58mm x 24mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 0.9") and a weight of 193 grams (0.43 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic 3D1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Following is a front view physical size comparison of the E-P1 compared to the 3D1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the E-P1 and 3D1 is 86 and 93 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to picture the contrast in sensor measurements purely by checking out specs. The visual below might give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-P1 and 3D1.

All in all, the 2 cameras provide the same MP but different sensor measurements. The E-P1 features the larger sensor which will make obtaining bokeh easier. The older E-P1 will be behind in sensor technology.