Olympus E-PL1s vs Panasonic Lumix FP5: A Practical Comparison for Every Photography Need

When it comes to cameras, experience matters. After more than a decade testing digital cameras across surprising environments - from dimly lit concert halls to sun-baked savannahs - I've learned that specs rarely tell the whole story. Today, we’re putting two compact contenders head-to-head: the Olympus E-PL1s, an entry-level mirrorless from 2010, and the 2011 ultracompact Panasonic Lumix FP5. Each targets a very different shooter, but both bring intriguing personalities to the table. Pull up a chair - I’ll share how these two perform in the trenches, which user types they'll serve best, and some hands-on tips you won’t find in marketing brochures.

Handling and Ergonomics: Bigger Isn’t Always Better, But It Helps

Starting with the basics: size and feel. The Olympus E-PL1s sports a rangefinder-style mirrorless body measuring 115x72x42 mm and weighing 334g - not bulky by any means, but substantial relative to the tiny Panasonic FP5's ultracompact 101x59x18 mm frame and featherweight 141g.

The E-PL1s offers a deeper grip and more physical controls, which you can immediately appreciate after prolonged shooting sessions. The Panasonic, by contrast, hugs your pocket but at the cost of handling comfort - especially if you have larger hands or prefer manual shooting styles.

For street photographers or travelers valuing discretion and extreme portability, the Panasonic’s slim profile is a clear advantage. But for enthusiasts who demand secure handling and fast access to dials during action or manual exposure, the Olympus’s heft and layout win out hands down.

Ergonomics matter even more when you find yourself shooting standing on a rocky outcrop or shivering wrist-deep in a wildlife hide. Personally, I found the E-PL1s more accommodating when braced for stability, reducing fatigue across dozens of shots. The FP5’s slick shell was charming but less sure-footed in real-world grips.

Design Language and Control Layout: Intuitive or Clunky?

Look at the top view design to appreciate the control philosophies behind these cameras:

Olympus’s E-PL1s edition embraces a traditional DSLR-like control scheme with dedicated mode dials and a rear dial for quick adjustments. Exposure compensation, manual mode, and aperture/shutter priority are readily accessible. These features are a boon for those familiar with classic photography workflows. The fixed 2.7” LCD has a modest 230k-dot resolution - adequate but uninspiring.

Meanwhile, Panasonic’s FP5 swaps physical dials for a 3-inch touchscreen, also 230k dots, which surprisingly supports basic live view touch focus. However, manual exposure modes are entirely absent, nudging users toward full auto or program modes. The FP5's minimal physical controls lean heavily on touchscreen menus - nice for casual shooting, but a dealbreaker if you need tactile command.

For photographers who prize immediate hands-on control for complex scenes, the Olympus delivers a clear advantage. But the FP5’s touch interface and simplicity may appeal to novice or casual shooters embracing smartphone-like ease.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Here, the differences become pronounced.

Olympus E-PL1s employs a Four Thirds 17.3 x 13 mm CMOS sensor with 12 megapixels. This sensor size is roughly four times larger than the FP5’s tiny 1/2.3-inch CCD (6.08 x 4.56 mm) with 14 megapixels.

Why does this matter? Larger sensors inherently capture more light and offer better noise control, dynamic range, and color fidelity.

From hands-on testing in both daylight landscapes and dim interiors, the E-PL1s noticeably outperforms the FP5 in:

• Dynamic range - Olympus's sensor handles shadows and highlights more gracefully, preserving detail in bright skies and shaded foregrounds.
• Noise control at high ISO - Thanks to the CMOS sensor and TruePic V processor, images stay cleaner at ISO 800 and beyond.
• Color depth and skin tone reproduction - The E-PL1s provides richer, more natural colors, particularly for skin tones in portraits - a key point I’ll expand on below.

By contrast, the FP5’s tiny sensor struggles beyond ISO 400, producing loud color noise and limited tonal gradation. Its 14MP resolution on a smaller sensor creates harsher aliasing artifacts and weaker color accuracy.

However, the FP5’s fixed lens and sensor combo deliver respectable results for casual snapshots and smartphone replacements, provided lighting is good.

LCD and Interface: Viewing and Adjusting on the Fly

Both cameras stick to fixed LCDs without viewfinders - options for EVF are unavailable on the FP5 and optional (but nonexistent on this model) on the E-PL1s.

The FP5’s 3-inch touchscreen is modern for its time, supporting focus point selection and playback gestures. This tactile experience feels a bit like using a large smartphone, which can either delight or frustrate depending on your habits.

The E-PL1s’ 2.7-inch screen, while older tech with no touch capability, offers a more classic camera feel. The anti-reflective HyperCrystal LCD helps a bit in bright conditions, but the smaller size and lower resolution limit precision focusing and composition review - still, the physical controls offset this limitation.

In direct daylight, neither screen performs excellently, but the E-PL1s is marginally clearer. Lack of a built-in EVF for both models remains a significant omission, especially for bright outdoor use.

Autofocus Performance: Where Speed and Accuracy Matter Most

Autofocus systems mark one of the most critical usability differences.

The Olympus E-PL1s boasts an 11-point contrast-detection AF system with face detection and continuous AF during live view - a capable setup for an entry-level mirrorless of its day.

In practical shooting conditions - for portraits, street, and casual wildlife - I found the E-PL1s’s AF accurate but occasionally hunting in dim light or on low-contrast subjects. Still, it was quite competitive for its vintage.

The Panasonic FP5 also uses an 11-point contrast-detection AF with face detection but lacks continuous AF and manual focus entirely. Because the FP5 has a fixed lens, its autofocus algorithm is simpler but slower to adjust, sometimes resulting in missed focus in dynamic scenes.

Here's the kicker: the Olympus supports selective AF area mode and face detection, useful for portraits. The FP5's AF is more limited, best treated as point-and-shoot simplicity.

For tracking fast-moving subjects in wildlife or sports, neither camera excels, but the Olympus at least offers burst shooting at 3fps with AF-C, whereas the FP5 can hit 6fps only with static focusing set beforehand - making Olympus better suited for mid-paced action.

Lens Ecosystem and Versatility: Expand or Stick?

One undisputed advantage of the E-PL1s is its Micro Four Thirds mount, compatible with over 100 lenses ranging from ultra-wide primes to long telephotos. This lens ecosystem allows photographers to tailor their gear to portraits, macro, wildlife, or landscapes.

The Panasonic FP5, on the other hand, has a fixed zoom lens 35-140mm equivalent (4x optical zoom) with an aperture range of f/3.5-5.9. This lens covers basic everyday focal lengths but lacks the speed or versatility for low light or creative bokeh.

So, while the FP5 is a simple grab-and-go, the Olympus can evolve with you from entry-level shooter to advanced enthusiast, investing in high-quality glass over time.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Ready for Adventure?

Neither the Olympus E-PL1s nor the Panasonic FP5 offer environmental sealing. They are vulnerable to dust and moisture, so cautious use outdoors in adverse conditions is advised.

The E-PL1s boasts a sturdier build with metal parts in key areas and a solid chassis that feels reassuring in hand. The FP5’s plastic shell is lightweight but less durable in rough travel scenarios.

For landscape or wildlife photographers frequently outside, this matters. Neither camera could be my sole go-to in professional weather-challenging contexts, but the Olympus would survive a bit more handling abuse.

Battery Life and Storage: How Long and How Much?

Olympus E-PL1s uses a BLS-1 battery providing roughly 290 shots per charge, somewhat average for mirrorless cameras of its era.

Panasonic FP5 struggles with only 260 shots per charge, typical for ultracompacts with smaller battery volumes.

Both cameras accept SD cards, but the FP5 also supports SDXC card formats and has internal memory - handy if you forget your card.

Longer shooting sessions would favor carrying spares regardless, especially on trips where charging isn’t convenient.

Video Capabilities: Basic but Functional

Both cameras max out at 720p HD at 30fps, outputting Motion JPEG files.

Olympus E-PL1s video is serviceable for casual clips but lacks image stabilization strength during handheld recording despite sensor-shift IS. Panasonic FP5 features optical image stabilization - a highlight for video stability in a compact body.

Neither camera offers advanced video options like manual exposure while recording or external mic inputs, placing them solidly in the casual video shooter category.

Real-World Testing Across Photography Genres

To distill this technical data into actionable insights, I put both cameras through genre-specific tests. The resulting performance maps tell us who shines where.

Olympus E PL1s front Olympus E PL1s screen back Panasonic FP5 front Panasonic FP5 screen back

Portrait Photography

Portrait shooters value pleasing skin tones, sharp eyes, and smooth background separation.

• Olympus E-PL1s:
  • Superior color rendition yields natural, flattering skin tones.
  • Thanks to larger sensor and interchangeable fast primes, more effective bokeh and creamy background separation.
  • Reliable face detection ensures sharp eyes even in modest light.
• Panasonic FP5:
  • Limited by sensor size and slower lens, resulting in flatter skin tones and harsher background.
  • Face detection works but macro contrast rendering is lackluster.

Verdict: Olympus offers a noticeable edge for portraits and headshots.

Landscape Photography

Vital factors: resolution, dynamic range, and weather robustness.

• Olympus E-PL1s:
  • 12MP sensor delivers ample detail.
  • Wider dynamic range captures shadow and highlight detail better.
  • While not weather-sealed, easier to pair with external filters and tripods due to grip and controls.
• Panasonic FP5:
  • Higher megapixel count (14MP) but on a very small sensor reduces effective detail.
  • Limited dynamic range, struggles with highlights in bright scenes.
  • Compactness great for travel, but limited creative control.

Verdict: Olympus suits serious landscape shooters; FP5 is fine for casual snaps.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Critical needs here: autofocus speed, burst rate, reach.

• Olympus E-PL1s:
  • 3fps burst with AF tracking acceptable for mid-action sequences.
  • Ability to use tele lenses considerably extends reach.
• Panasonic FP5:
  • Faster burst at 6fps but focus locks at first shot - poor for tracking.
  • Zoom lens max is 140mm equivalent, limiting distant subjects.

Verdict: Olympus is far superior for serious wildlife and sports.

Street Photography

Discreteness, portability, and low light to capture candid moments.

• Panasonic FP5:
  • Compact, lightweight, and quiet.
  • Touchscreen focus speeds up candid shooting.
• Olympus E-PL1s:
  • Bulkier but with superior image quality in low light.
  • Relies on shutter sound but offers manual modes for creative street shots.

Verdict: FP5 excels in stealth and convenience; Olympus wins on quality.

Macro Photography

Precision focusing and lens options are paramount.

• Olympus E-PL1s:
  • Can pair with dedicated macro lenses offering up to 1:1 magnification.
  • Sensor-based stabilization aids handheld macro shots.
• Panasonic FP5:
  • 10cm closest focusing distance adequate but limited magnification.
  • No manual focus hinders precise control.

Verdict: Olympus is macro-ready; FP5 is casual only.

Night and Astrophotography

High ISO performance and exposure flexibility dominate here.

• Olympus E-PL1s:
  • Clean ISO performance up to 1600 ISO.
  • Manual exposure controls facilitate long exposures.
• Panasonic FP5:
  • Noise degrades image quality at anything over ISO 400.
  • No manual exposure modes restrict long-exposure astrophotography ambitions.

Verdict: Olympus is the better night-sky companion.

Video and Travel Photography

Balanced convenience, battery life, and recording options count.

• Olympus E-PL1s:
  • Versatile video capture, stable handling for run-and-gun shoots.
  • Bigger and heavier to carry around.
• Panasonic FP5:
  • Highly pocketable, touchscreen simplifies quick video clips.
  • Optical stabilization improves handheld video smoothness.

Verdict: FP5 appeals to travelers wanting minimal bulk; Olympus suits those prioritizing quality and control.

Professional Use

Reliability, file formats, and workflow integration drive demanding shoots.

• Olympus E-PL1s:
  • Supports RAW file capture for post-processing flexibility.
  • Compatible with advanced Micro Four Thirds lenses.
• Panasonic FP5:
  • No RAW support.
  • Fixed lens limits creative options.

Verdict: Olympus is far more professional-ready.

Analyzing these factors holistically, the Olympus E-PL1s boasts a balanced package with performance strengths often found only in higher-tier cameras at its price point. The Panasonic FP5 embraces ultracompact convenience at the expense of versatility and image quality.

Connectivity and Other Features

Neither camera provides wireless connectivity, Bluetooth, or GPS - common limitations for cameras from this generation. USB 2.0 is available on both, allowing basic wired transfer.

The Olympus includes an HDMI out port for direct viewing; Panasonic surprisingly lacks this - some frustration for presenting images on large screens.

Both cameras feature built-in flashes, with the Olympus offering external flash support, expanding creative lighting.

Price-to-Performance: Value Beyond Numbers

Priced at about $600 (E-PL1s) vs. $200 (FP5), your choice boils down to priorities.

If you want an entry-level system camera with room to grow - better image quality, control, and lens options - the Olympus feels worth the higher investment. For lifeloggers, casual shooters, or those seeking a straightforward compact, the Panasonic FP5 offers exceptional portability and simplicity at a budget.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Buy Which?

The Olympus E-PL1s is a solid pick for:

• Enthusiasts ready to explore manual and creative shooting modes.
• Portrait, landscape, macro, night, and event photographers craving quality and control.
• Users who appreciate the flexibility of interchangeable lenses.
• Those who prioritize image quality and future-proofing over pocketability.

The Panasonic Lumix FP5 shines for:

• Beginners and casual shooters wanting a straightforward grab-and-go.
• Travelers and street photographers valuing compactness and convenience.
• Those happy with full-auto shooting without manual exposure complexity.
• Budget-conscious buyers seeking a simple camera with zoom flexibility.

Wrapping It Up

Both the Olympus E-PL1s and Panasonic FP5 represent thoughtful design choices from their respective categories - the former bridging entry-level mirrorless sophistication and the latter championing compact ease. Your ideal fit hinges on your shooting style, ambitions, and tolerance for gadget heft.

Hopefully, this deep dive from sensor to system has helped crystallize their differences. Whether you’re eyeing landscapes behind a fast prime or candid family snaps in bustling streets, knowing how these cameras behave in real-world scenarios informs smarter purchase decisions.

Happy shooting!