Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic FX78

Here, we will be comparing the Olympus E-PM1 versus Panasonic FX78, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-PM1 (12MP) and the FX78 (12MP) is pretty well matched but the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and FX78 (1/2.3") have different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The E-PM1 was launched 11 months after the FX78 and they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FX78 being a Compact camera.

Before delving right into a more detailed comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the E-PM1 grades against the FX78 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX78. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery and Panasonic FX78 Gallery.

When you are going to travel with your camera often, you'll have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PM1 offers 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) whilst the Panasonic FX78 has measurements of 100mm x 55mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.8") having a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PM1 versus Panasonic FX78 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have during that time. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the E-PM1 compared to the FX78.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the E-PM1 and FX78 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to visualize the contrast between sensor dimensions simply by reading through technical specs. The pic below will help give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PM1 and FX78.

As you can tell, the two cameras feature the identical MP albeit different sensor dimensions. The E-PM1 includes the bigger sensor which will make obtaining shallower DOF easier. The fresher E-PM1 provides a benefit with regard to sensor technology.