Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic FH2

Following is a in-depth comparison of the Olympus E-P1 and Panasonic FH2, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the FH2 (14MP) is pretty well matched but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and FH2 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor sizing.

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The E-P1 was launched 17 months before the FH2 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Both cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FH2 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a in depth comparison, below is a quick view of how the E-P1 scores versus the FH2 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-P1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH2. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-P1 Gallery and Panasonic FH2 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera, you will need to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-P1 offers 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) whilst the Panasonic FH2 has measurements of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") and a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-P1 and Panasonic FH2 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have at that moment. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the E-P1 versus the FH2.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the E-P1 and FH2 is 86 and 96 respectively.

Often, its hard to envision the contrast between sensor sizes just by looking at technical specs. The image underneath may give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P1 and FH2.

As you have seen, both cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The E-P1 because of its bigger sensor will make shooting shallower DOF easier and the Panasonic FH2 will resolve more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more aged E-P1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.