Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic FP8

Here is a in depth overview of the Olympus E-P1 and Panasonic FP8, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Ultracompact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the FP8 (12MP) is fairly close but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and FP8 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor size.

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The E-P1 was announced at a similar time to the FP8 and they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FP8 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a short summation of how the E-P1 scores vs the FP8 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP8. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-P1 Gallery and Panasonic FP8 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera, you need to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-P1 features outside measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") with a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) while the Panasonic FP8 has proportions of 96mm x 60mm x 20mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 0.8") having a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-P1 and Panasonic FP8 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the E-P1 vs the FP8.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-P1 and FP8 is 86 and 95 respectively.

Typically, it is difficult to visualise the difference in sensor sizing merely by researching specifications. The visual below may give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the E-P1 and FP8.

Plainly, each of the cameras offer the same exact megapixels but not the same sensor sizing. The E-P1 offers the larger sensor which will make getting shallower DOF less difficult.