Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic S1

Its time to look much closer at the Olympus E-PM1 versus Panasonic S1, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There is a substantial difference among the sensor resolutions of the E-PM1 (12MP) and S1 (24MP) and the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and S1 (Full frame) possess different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The E-PM1 was announced 8 years earlier than the S1 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going through a in-depth comparison, below is a short summary of how the E-PM1 scores vs the S1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PM1 & Panasonic Lumix DC-S1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery & Panasonic S1 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to travel with your camera frequently, you are going to need to think about its weight and size. The Olympus E-PM1 features outside measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) and the Panasonic S1 has specifications of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") having a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PM1 versus Panasonic S1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select during that time. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the E-PM1 versus the S1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the E-PM1 and S1 is 89 and 54 respectively.

Generally, it's hard to imagine the difference in sensor dimensions only by looking through technical specs. The pic below will provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PM1 and S1.

As you have seen, both cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The E-PM1 having a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field more difficult and the Panasonic S1 will provide you with extra detail with its extra 12MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots far more aggressively. The more aged E-PM1 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.