Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic S2

Here is a complete comparison of the Olympus E-P1 versus Panasonic S2, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the S2 (14MP) is very close but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and S2 (1/2.3") offer different sensor dimensions.

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The E-P1 was announced 3 years prior to the S2 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S2 being a Compact camera.

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a concise summary of how the E-P1 grades versus the S2 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-P1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S2. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-P1 Gallery and Panasonic S2 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera frequently, you will want to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-P1 comes with outer 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 S2 has proportions of 98mm x 57mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") along with a weight of 112 grams (0.25 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-P1 versus Panasonic S2 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select during that time. Underneath is a front view over all size comparison of the E-P1 and the S2.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the E-P1 and S2 is 86 and 96 respectively.

Often, it is tough to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing only by viewing specifications. The graphic here will provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the E-P1 and S2.

Plainly, each of these cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The E-P1 using its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF less difficult and the Panasonic S2 will provide you with greater detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also enable you to crop pics way more aggressively. The older E-P1 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.