Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic FZ100

On this page, we will be analyzing the Olympus E-P1 versus Panasonic FZ100, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the FZ100 (14MP) is relatively similar but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and FZ100 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor dimensions.

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The E-P1 was launched 11 months prior to the FZ100 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FZ100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going into a in-depth comparison, here is a short highlight of how the E-P1 scores versus the FZ100 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-P1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-P1 Gallery and Panasonic FZ100 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you are going to need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-P1 provides 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) while the Panasonic FZ100 has measurements of 124mm x 82mm x 92mm (4.9" x 3.2" x 3.6") having a weight of 540 grams (1.19 lbs).

See the Olympus E-P1 versus Panasonic FZ100 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select at that time. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the E-P1 compared to the FZ100.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the E-P1 and FZ100 is 86 and 67 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes only by going over technical specs. The pic below may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P1 and FZ100.

As you have seen, both of those cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-P1 because of its bigger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field easier and the Panasonic FZ100 will offer greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots more aggressively. The more aged E-P1 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.