Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic ZS50

Lets look a bit more in depth at the Olympus E-P1 versus Panasonic ZS50, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the ZS50 (12MP) is relatively close but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and ZS50 (1/2.3") feature different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-P1 was introduced 6 years earlier than the ZS50 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech 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 ZS50 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the E-P1 grades versus the ZS50 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-P1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-P1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS50 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to travel with your camera frequently, you'll have to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus E-P1 has got outside dimensions of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") having a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS50 has sizing of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-P1 versus Panasonic ZS50 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose at that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the E-P1 and the ZS50.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the E-P1 and ZS50 is 86 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, it can be difficult to visualize the difference in sensor dimensions just by looking through specs. The picture underneath will provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P1 and ZS50.

All in all, each of the cameras posses the exact same MP albeit different sensor dimensions. The E-P1 includes the bigger sensor which will make getting shallow depth of field simpler. The more aged E-P1 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.