Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic ZS50

In this article, we will be reviewing the Olympus E-PM1 and Panasonic ZS50, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PM1 (12MP) and the ZS50 (12MP) is relatively comparable but the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and ZS50 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor dimensions.

Samsung Releases Faster Versions of EVO MicroSD Cards

The E-PM1 was introduced 4 years before the ZS50 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic ZS50 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a complete comparison, below is a brief summary of how the E-PM1 matches up vs the ZS50 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PM1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery & Panasonic ZS50 Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PM1 enjoys 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) while the Panasonic ZS50 has measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 243 grams (0.54 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PM1 and Panasonic ZS50 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you have during that time. The following is the front view scale comparison of the E-PM1 vs the ZS50.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the E-PM1 and ZS50 is 89 and 90 respectively.

Usually, it can be hard to visualise the contrast in sensor measurements purely by checking out a spec sheet. The graphic here may provide you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PM1 and ZS50.

Clearly, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact MP albeit not the same sensor measurements. The E-PM1 features the bigger sensor which should make obtaining bokeh simpler. The older E-PM1 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.