Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic ZR1

Let's examine more in depth at the Olympus E-PM1 and Panasonic ZR1, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PM1 (12MP) and the ZR1 (12MP) is relatively close but the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and ZR1 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor measurements.

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The E-PM1 was brought out 2 years later than the ZR1 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZR1 being a Compact camera.

Before going in to a in depth comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the E-PM1 matches up vs the ZR1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PM1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery & Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera, you are going to need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PM1 enjoys external 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) and the Panasonic ZR1 has dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus E-PM1 and Panasonic ZR1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with at that moment. Here is the front view measurements comparison of the E-PM1 vs the ZR1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PM1 and ZR1 is 89 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to see the contrast in sensor sizing simply by researching technical specs. The photograph here will help give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PM1 and ZR1.

As you can tell, both of the cameras have got the exact same MP albeit not the same sensor sizing. The E-PM1 contains the bigger sensor which should make getting bokeh less difficult. The newer E-PM1 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.