Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic SZ1

Below, we are reviewing the Olympus E-PM2 versus Panasonic SZ1, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PM2 (16MP) and the SZ1 (16MP) is very comparable but the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and SZ1 (1/2.3") feature different sensor size.

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The E-PM2 was revealed 17 months after the SZ1 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ1 being a Compact camera.

Before getting through a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the E-PM2 matches up versus the SZ1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PM2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ1. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery & Panasonic SZ1 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to travel with your camera frequently, you will need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PM2 enjoys external measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) while the Panasonic SZ1 has measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 131 grams (0.29 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PM2 versus Panasonic SZ1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are working with at that time. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the E-PM2 versus the SZ1.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the E-PM2 and SZ1 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to picture the contrast in sensor dimensions purely by going through specifications. The image underneath may offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PM2 and SZ1.

To sum up, the two cameras posses the exact same MP but different sensor dimensions. The E-PM2 contains the larger sensor which should make obtaining shallower depth of field easier. The more recent E-PM2 provides an edge with regard to sensor tech.