Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic FS12

Here is a in-depth analysis of the Olympus E-P1 versus Panasonic FS12, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Ultracompact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the FS12 (12MP) is fairly similar but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and FS12 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor dimensions.

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The E-P1 was revealed 4 months later than the FS12 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FS12 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before going right into a thorough comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the E-P1 scores versus the FS12 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS12. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus E-P1 Gallery and Panasonic FS12 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera frequently, you need to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus E-P1 offers outer dimensions of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") and a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) and the Panasonic FS12 has sizing of 97mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 129 grams (0.28 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-P1 versus Panasonic FS12 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose during that time. Underneath is a front view measurements comparison of the E-P1 versus the FS12.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-P1 and FS12 is 86 and 95 respectively.

Normally, its hard to visualise the gap between sensor sizing just by reviewing a spec sheet. The visual underneath will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the E-P1 and FS12.

Clearly, both of the cameras provide the same megapixels but not the same sensor sizing. The E-P1 uses the larger sensor which should make getting shallow DOF simpler.