Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic FH1

Below, we are analyzing the Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic FH1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PM1 (12MP) and the FH1 (12MP) is fairly well matched but the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and FH1 (1/2.3") enjoy different sensor size.

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The E-PM1 was unveiled 23 months later than the FH1 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FH1 being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a in-depth comparison, below is a quick summary of how the E-PM1 matches up versus the FH1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PM1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery and Panasonic FH1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera often, you'll have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PM1 has got outer dimensions 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 Panasonic FH1 has dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic FH1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are working with at the time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the E-PM1 against the FH1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PM1 and FH1 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to imagine the gap between sensor sizing just by checking specifications. The graphic below may offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PM1 and FH1.

Plainly, both cameras posses the exact same resolution but different sensor sizing. The E-PM1 has the larger sensor which will make getting shallower depth of field easier. The more recent E-PM1 should have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.