Olympus E-PM1 vs Olympus SZ-30MR

Below is a comprehensive analysis of the Olympus E-PM1 vs Olympus SZ-30MR, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are created by Olympus. There is a large difference among the image resolutions of the E-PM1 (12MP) and SZ-30MR (16MP) and the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and SZ-30MR (1/2.3") possess different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The E-PM1 was launched 9 months later than the SZ-30MR so they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus SZ-30MR being a Compact camera.

Before getting in to a more detailed comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the E-PM1 grades against the SZ-30MR with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PM1 & Olympus SZ-30MR. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery & Olympus SZ-30MR Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera frequently, you're going to have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus E-PM1 features physical measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) whilst the Olympus SZ-30MR has specifications of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus E-PM1 vs Olympus SZ-30MR in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are employing at the time. Following is the front view size comparison of the E-PM1 compared to the SZ-30MR.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the E-PM1 and SZ-30MR is 89 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to picture the contrast in sensor measurements only by checking out specifications. The photograph here will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PM1 and SZ-30MR.

Plainly, the 2 cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The E-PM1 due to its larger sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF less difficult and the Olympus SZ-30MR will provide more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop images far more aggressively. The more recent E-PM1 provides an advantage in sensor technology.