Olympus E-P2 vs Panasonic ZS30

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Olympus E-P2 versus Panasonic ZS30, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a substantial gap between the resolutions of the E-P2 (12MP) and ZS30 (18MP) and the E-P2 (Four Thirds) and ZS30 (1/2.3") feature different sensor measurements.

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The E-P2 was announced 3 years earlier than the ZS30 which is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-P2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS30 being a Compact camera.

Before going in to a in depth comparison, below is a brief overview of how the E-P2 grades versus the ZS30 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-P2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS30. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-P2 Gallery & Panasonic ZS30 Gallery.

If you are aiming to travel with your camera frequently, you're going to have to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-P2 provides exterior dimensions of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") and a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS30 has measurements of 105mm x 59mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 198 grams (0.44 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-P2 versus Panasonic ZS30 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have attached during that time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the E-P2 compared to the ZS30.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-P2 and ZS30 is 86 and 92 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to picture the contrast between sensor dimensions merely by reading specifications. The picture below should give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P2 and ZS30.

To sum up, both cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The E-P2 with its bigger sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF less difficult and the Panasonic ZS30 will offer you extra detail with its extra 6MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more aged E-P2 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.