Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic LZ20

Here is a in depth overview of the Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic LZ20, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a big gap between the sensor resolutions of the E-PM1 (12MP) and LZ20 (16MP) and the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and LZ20 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-PM1 was introduced 7 months earlier than the LZ20 so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic LZ20 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before delving straight to a thorough comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the E-PM1 grades vs the LZ20 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PM1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery and Panasonic LZ20 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera often, you have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus E-PM1 features outside measurements 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 LZ20 has specifications of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") along with a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic LZ20 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you select at that moment. Below is a front view physical size comparison of the E-PM1 and the LZ20.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PM1 and LZ20 is 89 and 71 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to see the difference between sensor sizing merely by reviewing a spec sheet. The graphic below will give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PM1 and LZ20.

Clearly, both the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-PM1 using its larger sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field simpler and the Panasonic LZ20 will offer extra detail using its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop pics more aggressively. The older E-PM1 is going to be behind in sensor technology.