Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic XS1

Here, we are analyzing the Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic XS1, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PM2 (16MP) and the XS1 (16MP) is fairly close but the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and XS1 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-PM2 was introduced 5 months later than the XS1 so they are both of a similar age. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic XS1 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a brief summation of how the E-PM2 scores vs the XS1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PM2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery & Panasonic XS1 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera, you need to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PM2 has external dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Panasonic XS1 has sizing of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") having a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic XS1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose at the time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the E-PM2 versus the XS1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PM2 and XS1 is 89 and 97 respectively.

More often than not, its hard to envision the contrast in sensor sizing only by looking through specifications. The photograph underneath will offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PM2 and XS1.

Plainly, both of the cameras come with the identical megapixels but not the same sensor sizing. The E-PM2 uses the larger sensor which is going to make achieving bokeh simpler.