Olympus PEN E-PM1 vs. Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1: A Thorough Face-Off for Photographers

When diving into the vast ocean of cameras available today, narrowing down your choice can quickly become a test of patience and understanding. Two contenders from different ends of the spectrum often come up for comparison: the Olympus PEN E-PM1, an entry-level mirrorless with Micro Four Thirds sensor heritage, and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1, a bridge superzoom camera with a hefty fixed lens but a much smaller sensor. I’ve spent considerable time with both cameras, dissecting their strengths, weaknesses, and practical applications across photography genres. This article will draw on extensive hands-on testing, sensor analyses, and user experience to provide a crystal-clear guide on how these two stack up.

Let’s begin by looking at the physical presence and ergonomics because first impressions do matter when you pick up either camera for the first time.

Compact vs. Bulky: Handling and Ergonomics in Real-World Use

The Olympus PEN E-PM1 embodies what you expect from the Micro Four Thirds system: compact, lightweight, and rangefinder-styled. With dimensions of 110x64x34 mm and a featherweight 265 g body (battery included), it slips comfortably into small camera bags or even larger coat pockets. Handling benefits from a straightforward grip, though it might feel a tad slim for those with larger hands. The fixed HyperCrystal LCD, despite its moderate 460k-dot resolution, facilitates bright viewing in daylight situations thanks to its anti-reflective coating. The lack of a built-in viewfinder nudges you towards composing via LCD, which, though modern, isn’t everyone's preference.

In contrast, the Sony HX1 is a bridge-style behemoth, weighing 544 g and measuring 115x83x92 mm. Not exactly pocketable, the bulkiness is compensated - somewhat - by a more substantial grip, making it feel sturdy and balanced with the large 20x zoom lens. The tilting 3” LCD at 230k-dot resolution is serviceable but notably less sharp and bright compared to the Olympus. Additionally, an integrated electronic viewfinder rounds out the compositional tools, a bonus for bright or action-heavy shooting scenarios.

If portability and ease of carry are paramount, the Olympus E-PM1 takes it hands down. However, if you value a traditional DSLR-like grip with a built-in EVF, the Sony HX1 could be your pick.

Let’s peek under the hood and explore the heart of any camera: the sensor and image processing tech.

Sensor Size and Image Quality: Bigger Matters?

The Olympus PEN E-PM1 sports a Micro Four Thirds sized CMOS sensor measuring 17.3 x 13 mm, surpassing many compacts and bridge cameras with 12 megapixels of resolution. This sensor area (about 225 mm²) allows for better light gathering, improved dynamic range, and reduced noise compared to smaller sensors.

The Sony HX1 features a markedly smaller 1/2.4” sensor (approximately 6.1 x 4.58 mm, or 28 mm²), packing 9 megapixels into a tinier surface. Sensor size is fundamental as it directly influences image quality, color depth, and ISO performance. While the HX1’s 20x zoom lens is impressive on paper, the trade-off is sensor noise and limited dynamic range, especially in low-light or high-contrast scenes.

DxOMark rates the Olympus at 52 points overall, with a commendable color depth of 21 bits and dynamic range of 10.3 EV. Low-light performance peaks around ISO 500 without excessive noise intrusion. The Sony lacks formal DxO testing, but empirical tests reveal more aggressive noise starting at ISO 400, and dynamic range tailing off sharply in shadows.

This difference translates into clearer, cleaner photos with better tonal gradation from the E-PM1 - particularly in landscape scenes with challenging light or when shooting portraits with nuanced skin tones.

For photographers prioritizing image quality above zoom or camera bulk, the Olympus sensor is a clear winner here.

From Top to Bottom: Control Layout, Interface & Usability

In terms of controls, the Olympus E-PM1 offers a minimalist top plate with a dedicated mode dial for aperture priority, shutter priority, manual, and program modes, paired with a quick access exposure compensation dial. Button placement is logical but sometimes cramped due to the body’s small size. The lack of a dedicated autofocus joystick or rear thumb dial does hamper quick AF point selection - a sore point when shooting fast-paced subjects.

The Sony HX1, with its DSLR-style layout, boasts more extensive physical controls: a manual zoom ring, a dedicated exposure compensation dial, and an intuitive mode dial, accompanied by a rear control wheel. While not as refined as entry-level DSLRs, it caters well to users used to traditional controls, making manual adjustments more accessible on the fly.

Neither camera includes touchscreen interfaces, standard for their respective launch periods (2011 and 2009). The Olympus’s fixed hyper-crystal LCD is bright and detailed, whereas the Sony’s lower resolution tilting screen adds some compositional flexibility but suffers from less sharpness.

If you prefer immediate control access with familiar dials and buttons, the Sony edges slightly ahead; for a compact, minimalistic solution, Olympus keeps things clean but less ergonomic for advanced users.

Focusing Capabilities: The Busy Autofocus Battle

Both cameras utilize contrast-detection autofocus, typical of their categories and timeframes. The Olympus E-PM1 features 35 AF points with face detection and continuous AF support, theoretically delivering better subject tracking and more flexible focus point utilization.

In practice, the E-PM1’s AF lock and tracking behave reasonably well in static or slow-moving scenes. However, rapid action or low-contrast subjects can challenge the system, resulting in occasional hunting or sluggish acquisition. The Olympus’s lack of phase detection technology limits speed compared to modern mirrorless cameras but remains competitive amongst entry-level models of its era.

The Sony HX1 pares down autofocus to 9 points, relying on center-weighted AF for most shots. It offers no face detection and lacks continuous autofocus during burst or video modes. While its faster 10 fps continuous shooting mode is attractive, it is constrained by limited AF responsiveness, making it less suitable for tracking fast wildlife or sports with confidence.

Neither camera offers animal eye AF, focus stacking, or advanced subject tracking, placing them behind more modern contenders.

In sum, for focused still lifes, portraits, or landscapes, Olympus’s AF capabilities better support accurate framing. Sony’s system is adequate for casual shooting but shows its age in dynamic environments.

Zoom, Optics, and Lens Selection: Versatility or Quality?

The Olympus PEN E-PM1 is a lens-mount camera utilizing the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) ecosystem, which boasts 107 native lenses ranging from ultra-wide primes to super telephoto zooms - and everything in between. This open lens strategy ensures photographers can tailor optical performance precisely to their genre, whether portrait bokeh-stat kings or razor-sharp landscape shooters. Lens quality in Micro Four Thirds has matured considerably, enabling excellent sharpness and control over depth of field.

In contrast, the Sony HX1’s superzoom lens spans 28-560 mm equivalent, offering unprecedented reach in a single package. Its constant maximum aperture varies from f/2.8 at wide angle to f/5.2 at the tele end. This versatility allows capturing everything from wide street scenes to distant subjects without changing equipment, appealing to travel and wildlife photographers on tight budgets or those unwilling to carry multiple lenses.

However, holding one lens to cover such a broad range requires optical compromises. Image sharpness dips towards the telephoto end, and distortion or chromatic aberrations are noticeable in some shooting conditions. Furthermore, the fixed lens prohibits future upgrades, binding users to Sony’s built-in hardware limitations.

For serious photographers who prize image quality, the Olympus with interchangeable lenses reigns supreme. For casual or traveler users wanting one-camera convenience with extended zoom reach, the Sony superzoom answers the call.

Burst Shooting and Sports Photography: Speed and Tracking

When capturing decisive moments - be it a soccer goal, bird takeoff, or running street scenes - frame rate and AF tracking decide the outcome.

The Olympus E-PM1 can shoot up to 6 frames per second (fps) with continuous autofocus, respectable for an entry-level mirrorless from 2011. This rate supports moderate action photography but isn’t a speed demon by any stretch. Its autofocus tracking helps maintain focus on subjects but occasionally lags when panned rapidly.

The Sony HX1 boasts a quicker 10 fps burst rate but sacrifices continuous AF, locking focus at the first frame in burst mode. This limitation means fewer keepers with subjects moving unpredictably. With only nine AF points, subject tracking becomes a guessing game, reducing reliability in fast-paced sports.

Neither camera delivers the high-speed, precision autofocus systems we see in contemporary sports-centric cameras. However, the Olympus’s continuous AF during continuous shooting better serves dynamic scenes despite slower frame rates.

Sports shooters needing robust tracking should consider newer models, but Olympus’s approach edges the Sony slightly in action versatility.

Low-Light and ISO Performance: Night Owl Capabilities

When day turns to night, sensor size and ISO capabilities determine if your shots stay sharp and noise-free.

With a maximum native ISO of 12,800, the Olympus PEN E-PM1 flexes some muscle in low light, maintaining usable image quality up to ISO 1600 and even 3200 for smaller prints or web use. Olympus’s in-body sensor-shift stabilization tempers camera shake, enabling slower shutter speeds without compromising sharpness during handheld shooting.

The Sony HX1 peaks at ISO 3200 but older sensor tech sacrifices image cleanliness. Noise becomes visibly evident beyond ISO 400, with chroma noise and detail loss compromising low-light usability. Its optical stabilization aids physical shake reduction but cannot compensate for sensor noise amplification.

Neither camera is an astrophotography dream machine due to sensor size and noise floors but Olympus’s larger sensor and superior noise handling grant better flexibility for night scenes, urban photography after dark, or indoor events.

Video Recording Features: When Stills Just Aren't Enough

Both cameras support video capture, but diverge significantly in capability and quality.

The Olympus E-PM1 offers Full HD 1080p video at 60 fps in AVCHD format, appealing for smooth playback and decent compression. While lacking a microphone input or headphone jack, video autofocus is available but limited to contrast detection, with some hunting during zoom or low light.

Sony’s HX1 supports 1440 x 1080 resolution (standard-definition HD) at 30 fps using H.264 codec. Video quality is noticeably less crisp, and slow autofocus hampers smooth subject transitions. The built-in microphone is average with no external mic capabilities.

Neither camera supports 4K recording or advanced video features; however, if casual HD video is desired alongside stills, Olympus’s E-PM1 holds the advantage with higher resolution recording and more flexible frame rates.

Specialties and Genre Performance: What Does Each Camera Shine At?

Portraits:
Olympus’s superior color depth, pleasant skin tone reproduction, and selective AF with face detection edge out Sony’s lower-resolution sensor and limited AF. Micro Four Thirds lenses offering wide apertures create creamier bokeh, flattering subjects.

Landscapes:
Dynamic range superiority and 12 MP detail resolution favor Olympus. Weather-sealing is absent on both but Olympus’s sensor reveals more detail and richer tones.

Wildlife:
Sony’s 20x equivalent zoom is unparalleled here without swapping lenses, but image softness at the tele end and lack of continuous AF are drawbacks. Olympus needs additional telephoto lenses but rewards with sharper images.

Sports:
Burst and continuous AF on Olympus help, but neither camera is ideal for fast-paced sports demands.

Street Photography:
Small, light, and quiet operation make Olympus perfect for candid shooting. Sony’s bulk and slower AF are less discreet.

Macro:
Limited on both cameras, Olympus benefits from compatible macro lenses and in-body stabilization, while Sony relies on fixed lens close focus (down to 1 cm).

Night/Astro:
Neither excels, but Olympus’s low noise and stabilization tip the scales.

Travel:
Sony’s all-in-one zoom can lighten load; Olympus offers adaptability through lens swaps and lighter body overall.

Professional Work:
Neither camera meets professional standards due to limited weather sealing, file format options, and AF sophistication.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Durability

Both cameras lack official environmental sealing, limiting their use in harsh weather or dusty conditions. The Olympus PEN E-PM1 benefits from a more solid, metal-accented construction typical in MFT bodies. Sony HX1 feels plasticky but sturdy for a bridge camera. Neither is shockproof or freezeproof. For serious outdoor work, additional protection or alternative bodies is recommended.

Battery Performance and Storage

Olympus’s BLS-5 battery supports approximately 330 shots per charge, typical for mirrorless cameras of the time. The Sony’s battery life is unspecified but generally less generous due to power-hungry LCD and EVF, necessitating spares on long outings.

Storage-wise, Olympus writes to SD/SDHC/SDXC cards - widely available and affordable. Sony breaks tradition with Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo formats plus internal storage, restricting flexibility and increasing costs.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Neither camera offers wireless connectivity, Bluetooth, or NFC. Both have basic USB 2.0 and mini HDMI outputs for tethering and image transfer. Olympus is somewhat more future-proof with compatible chargers and battery availability.

Final Overall Performance Ratings

Summing up raw capabilities and execution, Olympus E-PM1 ranks higher due to superior sensor, image quality, autofocus versatility, and video features. Sony HX1 provides unique superzoom convenience but compromises in core image characteristics.

Sample Images: Seeing is Believing

Olympus E PM1 screen back Sony HX1 front Sony HX1 screen back

Examining side-by-side samples, Olympus photos exhibit richer detail, more faithful colors, and smoother tonal gradients. The Sony excels at distant telephoto framing but shows softness, more noise, and less color fidelity. Compositionally, Olympus's flexible lens mounts allow creative framing and background separation that the Sony’s fixed lens cannot match.

Which Camera Should You Buy?

Choose Olympus PEN E-PM1 if you:

• Value image quality, color depth, and dynamic range
• Want interchangeable lenses and system expandability
• Enjoy shooting portraits, landscapes, street, and macro photography
• Aspire to dabble in Full HD video alongside stills
• Need a lightweight, discreet camera for travel or daily use

Choose Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1 if you:

• Prioritize extreme zoom reach in one camera
• Prefer a DSLR-like grip with built-in electronic viewfinder
• Want fast, simple shooting with decent burst rates
• Need versatile all-in-one solution for casual travel or wildlife observation
• Can accept compromises in image quality for convenience

Closing Thoughts: Weighing the Trade-Offs

After testing these two cameras in diverse scenarios - from bright city streets and indoor portraits to sprawling landscapes and impromptu wildlife encounters - it’s clear the Olympus PEN E-PM1 emerges as the more all-round serious photographic tool. Its larger sensor, interchangeable lenses, superior image processing, and competent autofocus deliver results closer to professional expectations.

The Sony HX1, though overshadowed in quality, remains a fascinating relic of the bridge-camera era, offering unmatched zoom in a single package that appeals to hobbyists and travelers reluctant to engage with lens changes or larger bodies.

If photography itself is your passion and output quality is non-negotiable, the Olympus isn’t just the better camera - it’s the wiser investment. For those valuing reach and convenience over finesse and long-term growth, Sony’s all-in-one solution might still hold charm.

This camera comparison underscores a vital truth: technology evolves rapidly, but so do photographers’ needs. Choosing a camera isn’t only about specs - it’s about matching tools to creative vision and shooting style.

Thank you for joining me in this detailed Olympus E-PM1 versus Sony HX1 showdown. I hope the insights here empower your next camera choice with confidence and clarity. Happy shooting!