Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic FH20

Following is a detailed overview of the Olympus E-PM2 versus Panasonic FH20, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PM2 (16MP) and the FH20 (14MP) is relatively well matched but the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and FH20 (1/2.3") posses different sensor size.

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The E-PM2 was revealed 3 years after the FH20 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FH20 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a in depth comparison, here is a simple view of how the E-PM2 matches up versus the FH20 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PM2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH20. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery and Panasonic FH20 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera often, you will want to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PM2 enjoys physical dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FH20 has measurements of 100mm x 56mm x 28mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.1") and a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-PM2 versus Panasonic FH20 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. Here is a front view over all size comparison of the E-PM2 versus the FH20.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PM2 and FH20 is 89 and 93 respectively.

Normally, its hard to visualize the gap between sensor sizes purely by looking at specifications. The pic below may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PM2 and FH20.

To sum up, the 2 cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-PM2 with its bigger sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF simpler and the Olympus E-PM2 will give you more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The fresher E-PM2 provides a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.