Olympus E-PL1 vs Panasonic ZR1

Below, we will be comparing the Olympus E-PL1 and Panasonic ZR1, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-PL1 (12MP) and the ZR1 (12MP) is relatively similar but the E-PL1 (Four Thirds) and ZR1 (1/2.3") use different sensor sizing.

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The E-PL1 was introduced 10 months after the ZR1 so they are of a similar age. Both cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a thorough comparison, below is a short summary of how the E-PL1 grades against the ZR1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery & Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

If you are going to travel with your camera regularly, you should think about its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL1 has got outside measurements of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") having a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) while the Panasonic ZR1 has specifications of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-PL1 and Panasonic ZR1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have attached at that moment. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the E-PL1 versus the ZR1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL1 and ZR1 is 86 and 94 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very hard to picture the contrast between sensor dimensions simply by reading specifications. The picture below might give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL1 and ZR1.

Plainly, both the cameras have got the exact same megapixels albeit different sensor dimensions. The E-PL1 includes the bigger sensor which will make obtaining shallow DOF easier. The fresher E-PL1 should have an edge with regard to sensor technology.