Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic FP2

Here is a in-depth assessment of the Olympus E-PM2 versus Panasonic FP2, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Ultracompact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-PM2 (16MP) and the FP2 (14MP) is very well matched but the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and FP2 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The E-PM2 was manufactured 3 years later than the FP2 and that is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FP2 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before getting into a full comparison, here is a quick view of how the E-PM2 grades versus the FP2 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PM2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP2. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery and Panasonic FP2 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera often, you'll need to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PM2 offers outer dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FP2 has measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") and a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PM2 versus Panasonic FP2 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you choose at that time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the E-PM2 compared to the FP2.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PM2 and FP2 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to see the difference between sensor sizing only by looking at specs. The graphic here should offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PM2 and FP2.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras have different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-PM2 due to its larger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field easier and the Olympus E-PM2 will resolve greater detail due to its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos a bit more aggressively. The more modern E-PM2 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.