Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic S1

On this page, we will be looking at the Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic S1, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by companies Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a noticeable gap among the resolutions of the E-PM2 (16MP) and S1 (24MP) and the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and S1 (Full frame) provide different sensor dimensions.

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The E-PM2 was manufactured 6 years prior to the S1 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick overview of how the E-PM2 scores against the S1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM2 & Panasonic Lumix DC-S1. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery & Panasonic S1 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry your camera frequently, you will want to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PM2 comes with physical measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) and the Panasonic S1 has measurements of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") accompanied by a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic S1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you use at the time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the E-PM2 against the S1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PM2 and S1 is 89 and 54 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizing simply by researching a spec sheet. The graphic here will give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PM2 and S1.

Clearly, both cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-PM2 due to its smaller sensor is going to make getting bokeh more challenging and the Panasonic S1 will provide you with extra detail due to its extra 8MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures more aggressively. The older E-PM2 will be behind in sensor technology.