Olympus E-PL1 vs Panasonic ZS45

The following is a in-depth overview of the Olympus E-PL1 versus Panasonic ZS45, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a noticeable gap among the sensor resolutions of the E-PL1 (12MP) and ZS45 (16MP) and the E-PL1 (Four Thirds) and ZS45 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL1 was introduced 5 years earlier than the ZS45 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS45 being a Compact camera.

Before diving in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief overview of how the E-PL1 grades vs the ZS45 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS45. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery & Panasonic ZS45 Gallery.

For those who are intending to travel with your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PL1 enjoys exterior dimensions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS45 has proportions of 108mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.3") having a weight of 249 grams (0.55 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-PL1 versus Panasonic ZS45 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are employing at that time. Following is the front view measurement comparison of the E-PL1 against the ZS45.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL1 and ZS45 is 86 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to visualise the gap in sensor dimensions simply by checking out technical specs. The picture underneath will offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL1 and ZS45.

As you can tell, both cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The E-PL1 using its bigger sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field easier and the Panasonic ZS45 will provide greater detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots much more aggressively. The more aged E-PL1 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.