Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic GH2

The following is a extended analysis of the Olympus E-PM1 versus Panasonic GH2, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a considerable gap between the image resolutions of the E-PM1 (12MP) and GH2 (16MP) but both cameras have the identical sensor dimensions (Four Thirds).

Photography Glossary

The E-PM1 was unveiled 9 months after the GH2 and they are of a similar age. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic GH2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going right into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick summary of how the E-PM1 scores versus the GH2 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery & Panasonic GH2 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to travel with your camera frequently, you are going to need to factor its weight and size. The Olympus E-PM1 offers physical 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 GH2 has specifications of 124mm x 90mm x 76mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 3.0") and a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-PM1 versus Panasonic GH2 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the E-PM1 and the GH2.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PM1 and GH2 is 89 and 70 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to see the gap between sensor dimensions only by reviewing specs. The image here will help provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PM1 and GH2.

All in all, the 2 cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Panasonic GH2 to offer you extra detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop pictures way more aggressively. The newer E-PM1 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.