Olympus E-PM1 vs Sony HX20V

On this page, we will be looking at the Olympus E-PM1 versus Sony HX20V, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by companies Olympus and Sony. There exists a crucial gap among the sensor resolutions of the E-PM1 (12MP) and HX20V (18MP) and the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and HX20V (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor dimensions.

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The E-PM1 was brought out 8 months earlier than the HX20V which means that they are of a similar generation. The two cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony HX20V being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a quick view of how the E-PM1 grades vs the HX20V for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX20V. The entire galleries are available at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery and Sony HX20V Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera, you need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PM1 provides outside measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) and the Sony HX20V has proportions of 107mm x 62mm x 35mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.4") having a weight of 254 grams (0.56 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-PM1 versus Sony HX20V in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are using at the time. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the E-PM1 compared to the HX20V.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PM1 and HX20V is 89 and 90 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be tough to envision the difference in sensor sizes just by seeing a spec sheet. The image here will give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PM1 and HX20V.

As you can see, both of the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-PM1 because of its bigger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF easier and the Sony HX20V will show more detail having its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop pictures more aggressively. The more aged E-PM1 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.