Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic FZ1000

Following is a in depth assessment of the Olympus E-PM1 and Panasonic FZ1000, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Large Sensor Superzoom by companies Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a substantial gap between the resolutions of the E-PM1 (12MP) and FZ1000 (20MP) and the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and FZ1000 (1") boast totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PM1 was launched 3 years earlier than the FZ1000 which is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FZ1000 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving right into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple summation of how the E-PM1 matches up versus the FZ1000 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ1000. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery & Panasonic FZ1000 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you'll need to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus E-PM1 features outer 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 FZ1000 has specifications of 137mm x 99mm x 131mm (5.4" x 3.9" x 5.2") with a weight of 831 grams (1.83 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PM1 and Panasonic FZ1000 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have attached at that time. Here is a front view size comparison of the E-PM1 vs the FZ1000.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PM1 and FZ1000 is 89 and 55 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to envision the contrast between sensor sizes simply by reviewing a spec sheet. The image underneath may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PM1 and FZ1000.

As you can see, each of the cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The E-PM1 featuring a bigger sensor will make getting shallow DOF simpler and the Panasonic FZ1000 will offer you more detail utilizing its extra 8MP. Higher resolution will let you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The more aged E-PM1 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.