Olympus E-PM1 vs Olympus SH-1

In this write-up, we are matching up the Olympus E-PM1 and Olympus SH-1, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both sold by Olympus. There exists a considerable gap between the sensor resolutions of the E-PM1 (12MP) and SH-1 (16MP) and the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and SH-1 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor dimensions.

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The E-PM1 was revealed 3 years before the SH-1 which is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus SH-1 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a detailed comparison, below is a short overview of how the E-PM1 grades versus the SH-1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PM1 & Olympus Stylus SH-1. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery & Olympus SH-1 Gallery.

When you are going to travel with your camera regularly, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PM1 features physical measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) and the Olympus SH-1 has measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-PM1 and Olympus SH-1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select at that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the E-PM1 versus the SH-1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PM1 and SH-1 is 89 and 88 respectively.

Sometimes, it's tough to see the gap between sensor dimensions merely by checking specifications. The pic underneath should provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PM1 and SH-1.

Plainly, each of these cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The E-PM1 with its larger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field easier and the Olympus SH-1 will give you greater detail because of its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop photos far more aggressively. The more aged E-PM1 is going to be behind with regard to sensor technology.