Olympus E-P2 vs Panasonic ZS7

Here is a extensive comparison of the Olympus E-P2 versus Panasonic ZS7, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-P2 (12MP) and the ZS7 (12MP) is very well matched but the E-P2 (Four Thirds) and ZS7 (1/2.3") have different sensor sizing.

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The E-P2 was unveiled 15 months earlier than the ZS7 making them a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-P2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS7 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight to a full comparison, here is a simple overview of how the E-P2 scores against the ZS7 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-P2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-P2 Gallery and Panasonic ZS7 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera, you need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-P2 comes with exterior dimensions of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") along with a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS7 has proportions of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-P2 versus Panasonic ZS7 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using during that time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-P2 compared to the ZS7.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-P2 and ZS7 is 86 and 91 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing merely by looking at specifications. The graphic here may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the E-P2 and ZS7.

Plainly, both of these cameras have the same megapixel count but different sensor sizing. The E-P2 offers the larger sensor which will make obtaining shallow DOF less difficult. The older E-P2 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.