Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic GH1

Below is a detailed review of the Olympus E-P1 and Panasonic GH1, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Advanced Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the GH1 (12MP) is fairly similar and both cameras offer the same sensor sizes (Four Thirds).

Photography Glossary

The E-P1 was launched very close to the GH1 so they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the E-P1 matches up versus the GH1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-P1 Gallery & Panasonic GH1 Gallery.

If you're aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-P1 has got physical measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") having a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GH1 has proportions of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-P1 and Panasonic GH1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen at that time. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the E-P1 versus the GH1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-P1 and GH1 is 86 and 81 respectively.

Typically, it is tough to imagine the difference between sensor measurements merely by reading a spec sheet. The visual underneath might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-P1 and GH1.

Clearly, each of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the identical megapixels so you can expect similar quality of photographs though you really should take the launch date of the products into consideration.