Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic FS12

Here, we are reviewing the Olympus E-PM1 and Panasonic FS12, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Ultracompact by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PM1 (12MP) and the FS12 (12MP) is fairly well matched but the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and FS12 (1/2.3") provide different sensor measurements.

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The E-PM1 was revealed 2 years after the FS12 which is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FS12 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving right into a complete comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the E-PM1 scores vs the FS12 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PM1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS12. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery & Panasonic FS12 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry around your camera frequently, you need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PM1 has got outside dimensions 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 Panasonic FS12 has dimensions of 97mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") with a weight of 129 grams (0.28 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PM1 and Panasonic FS12 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the E-PM1 compared to the FS12.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PM1 and FS12 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, its tough to visualize the gap between sensor sizes purely by reading through specs. The image here will help offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PM1 and FS12.

All in all, the two cameras feature the identical megapixels but different sensor sizes. The E-PM1 comes with the larger sensor which will make obtaining shallow DOF less difficult. The younger E-PM1 provides an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.