Olympus E-PL7 vs Panasonic FH2

Here is a in-depth analysis of the Olympus E-PL7 versus Panasonic FH2, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-PL7 (16MP) and the FH2 (14MP) is very comparable but the E-PL7 (Four Thirds) and FH2 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor sizing.

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The E-PL7 was released 3 years later than the FH2 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL7 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FH2 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a in depth comparison, here is a brief overview of how the E-PL7 scores versus the FH2 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PL7 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH2. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL7 Gallery & Panasonic FH2 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera, you have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PL7 provides physical measurements of 115mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 1.5") with a weight of 357 grams (0.79 lbs) and the Panasonic FH2 has proportions of 94mm x 54mm x 19mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.7") having a weight of 121 grams (0.27 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-PL7 versus Panasonic FH2 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Below is a front view scale comparison of the E-PL7 compared to the FH2.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL7 and FH2 is 86 and 96 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to see the gap in sensor sizing simply by going through technical specs. The photograph below will help offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL7 and FH2.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The E-PL7 featuring a larger sensor will make achieving shallower DOF less difficult and the Olympus E-PL7 will provide extra detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop images way more aggressively. The more recent E-PL7 is going to have an edge in sensor tech.