Olympus E-P2 vs Panasonic ZR1

Below is a complete assessment of the Olympus E-P2 and Panasonic ZR1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-P2 (12MP) and the ZR1 (12MP) is relatively close but the E-P2 (Four Thirds) and ZR1 (1/2.3") provide different sensor measurements.

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The E-P2 was revealed 9 months later than the ZR1 so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-P2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving right into a in depth comparison, here is a short summary of how the E-P2 grades against the ZR1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-P2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-P2 Gallery and Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

For those who are intending to lug around your camera frequently, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-P2 features exterior dimensions of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZR1 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-P2 and Panasonic ZR1 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 are utilizing during that time. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the E-P2 against the ZR1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-P2 and ZR1 is 86 and 94 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor measurements merely by looking through technical specs. The graphic underneath will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P2 and ZR1.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras come with the identical megapixel count albeit different sensor measurements. The E-P2 comes with the bigger sensor which is going to make obtaining shallower depth of field simpler. The fresher E-P2 should have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.