Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic S1

Let's take a deeper look at the Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic S1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a significant difference among the sensor resolutions of the E-PM2 (16MP) and S1 (12MP) and the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and S1 (1/2.3") boast different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The E-PM2 was launched 2 years later than the S1 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S1 being a Compact camera.

Before delving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a short view of how the E-PM2 grades vs the S1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PM2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery and Panasonic S1 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PM2 provides exterior 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) whilst the Panasonic S1 has sizing of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic S1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have attached at the time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the E-PM2 versus the S1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PM2 and S1 is 89 and 96 respectively.

Usually, it can be tough to imagine the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through specifications. The graphic here might provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PM2 and S1.

Plainly, both of those cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-PM2 because of its larger sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field easier and the Olympus E-PM2 will result in extra detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop photos more aggressively. The fresher E-PM2 should have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.