Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic SZ8

Below, we are reviewing the Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic SZ8, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a noticeable gap between the sensor resolutions of the E-P1 (12MP) and SZ8 (16MP) and the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and SZ8 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-P1 was introduced 5 years prior to the SZ8 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ8 being a Compact camera.

Before getting in to a complete comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the E-P1 grades versus the SZ8 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ8. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-P1 Gallery & Panasonic SZ8 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera often, you will want to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-P1 features exterior measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) and the Panasonic SZ8 has dimensions of 100mm x 60mm x 27mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic SZ8 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are using during that time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the E-P1 versus the SZ8.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-P1 and SZ8 is 86 and 94 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to see the difference between sensor sizing merely by reading specs. The photograph here will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-P1 and SZ8.

All in all, both of these cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-P1 having a larger sensor will make getting shallower DOF less difficult and the Panasonic SZ8 will deliver greater detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop pics much more aggressively. The older E-P1 is going to be behind in sensor technology.