Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic LZ20

Following is a in depth comparison of the Olympus E-PM2 versus Panasonic LZ20, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PM2 (16MP) and the LZ20 (16MP) is fairly comparable but the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and LZ20 (1/2.3") offer totally different sensor sizing.

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The E-PM2 was launched 11 months after the LZ20 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both the cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic LZ20 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before diving right into a thorough comparison, here is a short highlight of how the E-PM2 scores against the LZ20 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PM2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ20. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery and Panasonic LZ20 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera often, you're going to have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PM2 offers outside measurements 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 LZ20 has proportions of 120mm x 76mm x 80mm (4.7" x 3.0" x 3.1") along with a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-PM2 versus Panasonic LZ20 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you have during that time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the E-PM2 vs the LZ20.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PM2 and LZ20 is 89 and 71 respectively.

Often, it is difficult to envision the gap in sensor sizes simply by going through specifications. The pic here should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PM2 and LZ20.

Plainly, both of the cameras provide the same resolution but not the same sensor sizes. The E-PM2 contains the larger sensor which will make achieving shallower DOF easier. The younger E-PM2 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.