Olympus E-PL1s vs Panasonic FZ35

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-PL1s vs Panasonic FZ35, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PL1s (12MP) and the FZ35 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the E-PL1s (Four Thirds) and FZ35 (1/2.3") possess different sensor sizing.

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The E-PL1s was introduced 5 months later than the FZ35 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL1s being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FZ35 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the E-PL1s matches up against the FZ35 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL1s and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ35. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL1s Gallery and Panasonic FZ35 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera, you will have to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PL1s has got external measurements 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 FZ35 has proportions of 118mm x 76mm x 89mm (4.6" x 3.0" x 3.5") with a weight of 397 grams (0.88 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL1s vs Panasonic FZ35 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you choose at that time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the E-PL1s versus the FZ35.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL1s and FZ35 is 86 and 72 respectively.

More often than not, it can be hard to picture the gap between sensor sizing purely by reading through technical specs. The graphic underneath should give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL1s and FZ35.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras enjoy the same exact megapixels albeit different sensor sizing. The E-PL1s features the bigger sensor which should make getting bokeh simpler.