Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1: A Hands-On Comparison of Entry-Level Micro Four Thirds Pioneers

In the evolving mirrorless camera landscape of the early 2010s, Olympus and Panasonic both played seminal roles with their entry-level Micro Four Thirds (MFT) models. Among them, the Olympus PEN E-PM1 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1 stand out as trailblazers often paired in debates over compact system camera virtues. Having spent extensive time with these two, putting them through rigorous testing workflows across multiple photography genres, I’m ready to provide a deeply technical yet user-friendly comparison to help photographers - from hobbyists to professionals - identify which model might still find a place in their kit or as a collector’s curiosity.

Looking and Feeling: Size, Handling, and Design Approaches

Both cameras share the Micro Four Thirds mount but differ significantly in body style. The Olympus E-PM1 adopts a minimalist, rangefinder-esque design, emphasizing compactness and portability. Its dimensions (110x64x34 mm) and light weight (265g) make it one of the smallest mirrorless cameras available at its launch.

Conversely, the Panasonic G1 exhibits a bulkier, SLR-styled body (124x84x45 mm, 360g), reminiscent of a traditional DSLR, with a pronounced grip and more physical controls.

In practice, these design choices manifest distinctly. The E-PM1’s diminutive size lends well to street and travel photography scenarios where discretion and minimal presence are assets. Its lack of a built-in viewfinder, however, means relying heavily on the rear LCD for composition - a factor we’ll revisit.

The G1’s heft and SLR styling afford a sturdier handhold and more tactile control access, aligning with users who prefer traditional ergonomics or plan extended handheld shooting sessions. The body houses a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) covering 100%, aiding composition in bright outdoors.

The top control layouts further emphasize their design ethos:

The Panasonic G1 offers dedicated dials and buttons for aperture, shutter speed, exposure compensation, and more, favoring quick manual adjustments on the fly. Olympus’s E-PM1 condenses these controls into more menu-driven operations, echoing its entry-level intent but potentially slowing workflow for power users.

Ergonomics Verdict: For photographers prioritizing portability or casual carry, the E-PM1 charms. For those valuing control immediacy and traditional handling, the G1 remains preferable.

Sensor and Image Quality: Foundations of the Visual Output

Both cameras sport a 12MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor (17.3x13mm) - a standard early MFT sizing - delivering images at resolutions close to 4000x3000 pixels.

When it comes to image quality, DxOMark scores offer a useful benchmark: Olympus E-PM1 scores 52 overall, Panasonic G1 narrowly edges at 53. Color depth (21.0 vs. 21.1 bits) and dynamic range (both 10.3 EV) are effectively equivalent, indicating their sensors behave very similarly under controlled testing.

However, the native ISO ceiling differs notably: the E-PM1 boasts a maximum native ISO of 12800, whereas the G1 caps at 1600 (boosted ISO up to 3200). In real-world terms, this means the Olympus offers more flexibility shooting in dim conditions, albeit its higher ISO images carry more noise, typical for sensors of that era and size.

Both employ an anti-aliasing filter, smoothing fine details to prevent moiré but slightly sacrificing ultimate acuity. Color rendition adheres to natural yet somewhat muted palettes compared to modern mirrorless cameras, though the Olympus’s TruePic VI processor appears to render skin tones with marginally warmer hues.

Image Quality Verdict: Nearly neck-and-neck for mid-ISO shots, with the Olympus E-PM1 having an edge in higher ISO tolerance and slightly richer JPEG rendition. Raw files from both provide ample room for post-processing thanks to solid color depth and dynamic range.

Autofocus: Tracking Speed, Accuracy, and Face Detection

Autofocus (AF) systems significantly shape real-world usability.

The Olympus E-PM1 packages 35 contrast-detection AF points with face detection capabilities, plus continuous AF, single AF, and tracking modes. In daylight or well-lit scenes, it performs briskly, locking with reasonable accuracy even on darker subjects.

The Panasonic G1 has contrast-detection AF as well but lacks face detection and continuous tracking. Its point count isn’t specified but employs multi-area AF zones selectable by the user. AF speed feels slightly slower, especially in low light.

Neither camera offers phase detection autofocus, which was rare for early mirrorless models.

Practically, Olympus’s face detection assists portrait photographers by honing focus on eyes - a critical advantage in casual portraiture. Continuous tracking is valuable for moving subjects but not flawless; expect occasional hunting during rapid movement or low-contrast scenes.

Autofocus Verdict: The Olympus E-PM1 delivers a more versatile and responsive AF experience compared to the Panasonic G1, translating to higher keeper rates in dynamic and portrait shooting.

Display and Viewfinder: Framing and Review Experience

Display technology and viewfinder presence are decisive usability factors.

The Olympus E-PM1 features a 3-inch fixed “HyperCrystal” LCD with anti-reflective coating, offering 460k-dot resolution. The screen provides decent daylight visibility but is non-articulated, limiting composition from awkward angles.

The Panasonic G1 sports an identical size and resolution 3-inch fully articulated LCD. This flexibility enhances usability for macro, low-angle, and high-angle shooting - invaluable for creative compositions or video grab.

Additionally, the G1 integrates a built-in EVF covering 100% frame coverage, a glaring omission on the E-PM1, which only offers an optional accessory EVF dangling off the hot shoe. Many photographers consider an integrated viewfinder essential for stability, sunlit use, and precise framing.

Through side-by-side use, photographers often find the G1’s EVF indispensable outdoors, and the articulated screen a boon for specialty shooting. The E-PM1’s minimalistic LCD setup, while viable indoors or casual snaps, restricts versatility.

Display/Viewfinder Verdict: Panasonic G1 is the clear winner for compositional flexibility, especially for outdoor, macro, or video work.

Build Quality and Environmental Considerations

Neither camera offers ruggedized weather sealing or protection against the elements. Both carry some risk in wet or dusty conditions, a consideration for landscape and wildlife photographers who scout unpredictable terrains.

Physically, the heavier, larger G1 feels more robust and stable in the hand, while the E-PM1’s lighter body sacrifices some durability for portability.

Neither has freeze-proof or crush-proof features; both depend heavily on user care and suitable protective accessories.

Build Quality Verdict: G1 feels marginally more solid; however, neither model suits professionals requiring all-weather dependability.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Both Olympus E-PM1 and Panasonic G1 share the Micro Four Thirds mount, granting access to an extensive lens library - currently topping 100+ native lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, and third-party manufacturers like Sigma and Tamron.

The lens selection spans ultra-compact primes, pro-level zooms, macro optics, and specialized tilt-shift and fisheye lenses.

Thanks to their MFT mount, adaptors also enable usage of legacy Four Thirds and even some DSLR lenses, albeit without full autofocus.

Lens Ecosystem Verdict: Both cameras open the door to one of the most flexible and affordable mirrorless lens lineups in existence - an enduring advantage for future upgrades.

Continuous Shooting and Burst Rates: Capturing Movement

For sports, wildlife, or any action photography, continuous shooting speeds and buffer capacity matter.

The Olympus E-PM1 touts a 6fps continuous shooting rate, superior to the Panasonic G1’s modest 3fps max.

In practical field testing, the E-PM1’s buffer fills faster with large raw files, but its faster burst rate assists in catching fleeting moments better.

The G1’s slower rate and lack of continuous tracking AF limit its action potential.

Burst Rate Verdict: E-PM1 edges ahead for subjects in motion but neither matches today’s dedicated sports cameras.

Video Capabilities: Recording Quality and Usability

Video is another important consideration.

The Olympus E-PM1 supports full HD 1080p recording at 60fps (AVCHD and Motion JPEG formats) - a strong feature for its era. It lacks microphone and headphone ports but offers HDMI out for external monitoring.

Panasonic G1 lacks any video recording capabilities - it’s strictly a stills camera.

This makes the E-PM1 more attractive for hybrid shooters wanting occasional video without adding a dedicated camcorder.

Video Verdict: Olympus E-PM1 dominates by including capable 1080p video options.

Battery Life and Storage: Powering Long Sessions

Both cameras use proprietary rechargeable battery packs with similar claimed lifespans (~330 shots).

The E-PM1 uses the BLS-5 battery; the G1 uses a similar but unspecified battery type. Real-world shooting results in roughly half a day of moderate use before requiring recharge.

Each supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with the G1 uniquely compatible also with legacy MMC cards. Both cameras have a single memory card slot.

For extended travel or professional gigs, carrying spare batteries is advisable.

Connectivity and Extras: Wireless and Ports

Neither camera offers wireless connectivity such as Wi-Fi, NFC, or Bluetooth, unsurprising for their vintage.

Both include HDMI output and USB 2.0 ports. The E-PM1’s lacks microphone or headphone jacks; the G1, being photo-only, has no video-specific ports.

Flash-wise, the G1 includes a built-in popup flash with 10.5m range and various modes. The E-PM1 relies on an external flash via hot shoe only.

Connectivity Verdict: A wash, with the G1’s built-in flash providing slight creative convenience.

Real-World Photography Applications: Strengths and Use Cases

Having dissected specs and performance, let’s evaluate the cameras across major photography disciplines:

Portraiture: Rendering Skin and Backgrounds

The Olympus E-PM1’s faster AF with face detection and wider ISO latitude make it more approachable for casual and even semi-professional portrait work. Its Micro Four Thirds sensor produces pleasant skin tones, with the TruePic VI engine helping deliver smooth gradations.

Although the Panasonic G1 offers solid color depth, the absence of face detection and slower autofocus can cause missed focus on eyes in spontaneous sessions. Its built-in EVF helps with eye-level framing but is offset by more awkward manual focusing.

Verdict: E-PM1 wins on portrait usability and image quality nuances.

Landscape: Dynamic Range and Detail Capture

Both cameras boast identical dynamic range and resolution, producing fine landscape detail.

However, the G1’s articulated screen aids composing from ground level or over obstacles. The E-PM1’s compactness eases carrying multiple lenses to remote sites.

Neither offers weather sealing, meaning extra caution is needed in harsh elements.

Verdict: Tie with slight subjective edge to G1 for compositional flexibility.

Wildlife: Burst Speed and Telephoto Performance

E-PM1’s 6fps continuous and tracking AF outperform the G1, whose 3fps and lack of tracking make capturing fast animals harder.

Both can mount the same extensive telephoto lens options thanks to the MFT mount’s 2x crop factor, which doubles effective focal length.

Verdict: E-PM1 is more suited for casual wildlife attempts.

Sports: Autofocus and Frame Rate Necessities

Similarly, E-PM1’s faster burst rate and continuous AF modes prove better for sports where action is rapid.

G1’s slower response and manual-heavy controls fall short in fast-paced environments.

Verdict: E-PM1 clearly preferred.

Street Photography: Discretion and Portability

E-PM1’s compact size and quiet operation help remain unobtrusive.

The G1, while offering EVF for framing, feels bulkier, louder, and less spontaneous.

Verdict: E-PM1 wins for street shooters seeking light, quick capture.

Macro: Focusing Precision and Stability

Macro work benefits from articulated screens, aiding difficult angles.

G1 provides this plus built-in flash to light subjects.

E-PM1 offers sensor-based image stabilization but no articulated screen.

Verdict: Tie based on priorities: stabilization (E-PM1) or articulation (G1).

Night/Astro: High ISO and Exposure Options

E-PM1’s higher ISO ceiling and better noise handling give it a leg up for astrophotography or dim scenes.

G1’s max ISO 1600 limits options.

Neither include special astro modes or long exposure assistance.

Verdict: E-PM1 preferred for night enthusiasts.

Video: Recording Flexibility

Only Olympus E-PM1 offers solid Full HD 60fps recording with smooth autofocus.

G1 is strictly photo-only.

Verdict: E-PM1 by default.

Travel: Versatility and Endurance

The E-PM1’s small size, light weight, and video capabilities make it a versatile travel companion.

G1’s longer battery life per charge (marginal) and articulation help ease shooting diversity.

Verdict: Slight edge to E-PM1, but G1 viable with care.

Professional Workflows: Reliability and Formats

Both support RAW files, fundamental to professional editing workflows.

Build durability lacks weather sealing for professional outdoor use.

Connectivity and control limitations reduce their appeal for demanding users.

Verdict: Neither ideal for professionals needing rugged, fast work, but E-PM1 slightly more modern.

Overall Performance and Scores

Summarizing strengths and weaknesses with an eye on empirical ratings visualized below:

E-PM1 narrowly outperforms G1 overall due to better autofocus, video, and ISO flexibility.

Industry-standard assessment across photographic dimensions reinforces these findings:

Olympus leads in portraits, action, and video; Panasonic fair in landscapes and macro.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

After extensive hands-on evaluations and technical comparisons spanning sensor metrics to real-world use across genres, here is a distilled verdict for various user types:

• Casual and Entry-Level Photographers Seeking Portability: Olympus E-PM1’s compact design, better autofocus, and video capabilities make it the recommended choice.

• Traditional DSLR/SLR Users Transitioning to Mirrorless: Panasonic G1’s familiar handling style, built-in EVF, and articulated screen offer a gentle onramp.

• Portrait and Event Photographers: E-PM1 outshines with face detection and ISO versatility.

• Travel Photographers: The small size and lightweight E-PM1 wins, although G1’s articulated display can help with creative shots.

• Video Shooters: Olympus is the only choice here.

• Budget-Conscious Collectors or Backup Cameras: Both cameras can fit this role; G1s are sometimes found at lower prices but lack video.

In summary, while both are venerable Micro Four Thirds pioneers, the Olympus PEN E-PM1 edges ahead as the more practical and versatile everyday camera, especially for photographers valuing autofocus speed, higher ISO capacity, and video recording.

The Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1, meanwhile, offers a solid ergonomic foundation and compositional aids but feels limited by aging AF technology and video absence.

For anyone evaluating these cameras in today’s used gear market or appreciating their place in mirrorless history, this comprehensive view should help make an informed, experience-driven choice.

Thank you for joining me on this detailed exploration - as always, happy shooting and let your gear be the trusty companion in your photographic journey.