Olympus E-PL1s vs Panasonic G1

In this article, we will be matching up the Olympus E-PL1s vs Panasonic G1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-PL1s (12MP) and the G1 (12MP) is pretty comparable and they feature the same exact sensor sizes (Four Thirds).

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The E-PL1s was launched 23 months later than the G1 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL1s being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic G1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go through a more detailed comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the E-PL1s grades vs the G1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL1s and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-PL1s Gallery and Panasonic G1 Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you will have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL1s provides exterior measurements of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) whilst the Panasonic G1 has specifications of 124mm x 84mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 360 grams (0.79 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-PL1s vs Panasonic G1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have during that time. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the E-PL1s against the G1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the E-PL1s and G1 is 86 and 82 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to see the contrast in sensor measurements simply by going through technical specs. The graphic below should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL1s and G1.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the same exact resolution so you should expect comparable quality of files though you will want to take the production date of the cameras into account. The more modern E-PL1s is going to have a benefit in sensor technology.