Olympus E-PL2 vs Panasonic SZ1

Here is a in depth overview of the Olympus E-PL2 and Panasonic SZ1, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a large gap between the sensor resolutions of the E-PL2 (12MP) and SZ1 (16MP) and the E-PL2 (Four Thirds) and SZ1 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL2 was launched 11 months before the SZ1 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-PL2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ1 being a Compact camera.

Before going in to a in depth comparison, below is a quick view of how the E-PL2 grades against the SZ1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PL2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL2 Gallery & Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera often, you'll need to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PL2 has got exterior measurements of 114mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 362 grams (0.80 lbs) whilst the Panasonic SZ1 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL2 and Panasonic SZ1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are using at that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the E-PL2 and the SZ1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL2 and SZ1 is 85 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizing just by reading through technical specs. The visual underneath should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL2 and SZ1.

As you have seen, both of those cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-PL2 due to its larger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field easier and the Panasonic SZ1 will give you greater detail utilizing its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will let you crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The older E-PL2 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.