Olympus E-PL9 vs Panasonic SZ1

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Olympus E-PL9 vs Panasonic SZ1, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-PL9 (16MP) and the SZ1 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and SZ1 (1/2.3") enjoy different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL9 was manufactured 6 years after the SZ1 which is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ1 being a Compact camera.

Before we go through a comprehensive comparison, below is a brief view of how the E-PL9 grades against the SZ1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL9 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The entire galleries are available at Olympus E-PL9 Gallery and Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera often, you will have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL9 has outer measurements of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") with a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ1 has dimensions of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL9 vs Panasonic SZ1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you select at that moment. Following is the front view measurement comparison of the E-PL9 against the SZ1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the E-PL9 and SZ1 is 85 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to picture the contrast between sensor sizes just by looking at technical specs. The picture here may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL9 and SZ1.

As you have seen, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact resolution albeit different sensor sizes. The E-PL9 contains the bigger sensor which is going to make achieving shallower DOF easier. The fresher E-PL9 should have a benefit in sensor tech.