Olympus E-PL1 vs Panasonic FZ47

Here, we will be contrasting the Olympus E-PL1 versus Panasonic FZ47, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-PL1 (12MP) and the FZ47 (12MP) is relatively similar but the E-PL1 (Four Thirds) and FZ47 (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor measurements.

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The E-PL1 was revealed 14 months earlier than the FZ47 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FZ47 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go straight to a complete comparison, here is a short view of how the E-PL1 scores versus the FZ47 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ47. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery & Panasonic FZ47 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera often, you are going to need to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PL1 enjoys exterior dimensions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") along with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) and the Panasonic FZ47 has sizing of 120mm x 80mm x 92mm (4.7" x 3.1" x 3.6") accompanied by a weight of 498 grams (1.10 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PL1 versus Panasonic FZ47 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the E-PL1 vs the FZ47.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL1 and FZ47 is 86 and 68 respectively.

More often than not, it's tough to see the difference between sensor sizing only by going over specs. The visual here will help provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL1 and FZ47.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras come with the identical megapixels albeit not the same sensor sizing. The E-PL1 provides the bigger sensor which should make obtaining bokeh less difficult. The older E-PL1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.