Olympus E-PL2 vs Panasonic ZS50

On this page, we are looking at the Olympus E-PL2 versus Panasonic ZS50, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-PL2 (12MP) and the ZS50 (12MP) is fairly comparable but the E-PL2 (Four Thirds) and ZS50 (1/2.3") posses different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL2 was announced 4 years earlier than the ZS50 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PL2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS50 being a Compact camera.

Before delving right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief overview of how the E-PL2 scores versus the ZS50 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL2 Gallery & Panasonic ZS50 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to travel with your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL2 provides outer measurements of 114mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 362 grams (0.80 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS50 has dimensions of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-PL2 versus Panasonic ZS50 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the E-PL2 and the ZS50.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL2 and ZS50 is 85 and 90 respectively.

Quite often, it is very difficult to picture the difference in sensor dimensions just by seeing a spec sheet. The image underneath should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL2 and ZS50.

As you can see, both cameras provide the same megapixel count but different sensor dimensions. The E-PL2 has the larger sensor which is going to make achieving bokeh less difficult. The more aged E-PL2 will be behind in sensor tech.