Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic ZS15

Below, we are matching up the Olympus E-P1 versus Panasonic ZS15, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the ZS15 (12MP) is very close but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and ZS15 (1/2.3") enjoy different sensor sizes.

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The E-P1 was released 3 years before the ZS15 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS15 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a complete comparison, below is a quick summary of how the E-P1 grades vs the ZS15 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-P1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS15. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-P1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS15 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to travel with your camera frequently, you'll need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-P1 has external measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") and a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS15 has dimensions of 105mm x 58mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.3") having a weight of 208 grams (0.46 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-P1 versus Panasonic ZS15 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you choose at that time. Here is the front view overall size comparison of the E-P1 against the ZS15.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-P1 and ZS15 is 86 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to imagine the gap in sensor dimensions merely by researching technical specs. The picture underneath might give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P1 and ZS15.

As you have seen, both the cameras posses the exact same megapixels but different sensor dimensions. The E-P1 contains the larger sensor which should make achieving bokeh simpler. The more aged E-P1 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.