Olympus E-PL1 vs Panasonic TS1

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Olympus E-PL1 vs Panasonic TS1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Waterproof by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-PL1 (12MP) and the TS1 (12MP) is pretty well matched but the E-PL1 (Four Thirds) and TS1 (1/2.3") come with different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL1 was brought out 16 months later than the TS1 which makes the cameras a generation apart from one another. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic TS1 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a in-depth comparison, below is a concise summary of how the E-PL1 matches up versus the TS1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS1. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery and Panasonic TS1 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to lug around your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PL1 provides external dimensions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) while the Panasonic TS1 has sizing of 98mm x 63mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.5" x 0.9") with a weight of 189 grams (0.42 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-PL1 vs Panasonic TS1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you choose at the time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the E-PL1 compared to the TS1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL1 and TS1 is 86 and 93 respectively.

Typically, it is very hard to imagine the contrast between sensor measurements just by reading through technical specs. The photograph underneath may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL1 and TS1.

As you can tell, the two cameras enjoy the same exact megapixels albeit different sensor measurements. The E-PL1 has got the bigger sensor which is going to make obtaining bokeh simpler. The newer E-PL1 provides an edge in sensor innovation.