Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic FH1

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Olympus E-PM2 and Panasonic FH1, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a sizable difference between the sensor resolutions of the E-PM2 (16MP) and FH1 (12MP) and the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and FH1 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor size.

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The E-PM2 was launched 3 years later than the FH1 and that is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FH1 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a concise summation of how the E-PM2 scores vs the FH1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery & Panasonic FH1 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera, you'll need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PM2 has outer measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) and the Panasonic FH1 has dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") having a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus E-PM2 and Panasonic FH1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are using at that time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the E-PM2 vs the FH1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the E-PM2 and FH1 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Usually, it can be hard to see the difference between sensor sizing purely by reading through technical specs. The photograph below will give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PM2 and FH1.

As you can tell, each of these cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The E-PM2 due to its bigger sensor will make shooting shallow DOF simpler and the Olympus E-PM2 will give greater detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots far more aggressively. The newer E-PM2 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.