Olympus SH-50 vs Panasonic GX1

Here, we are contrasting the Olympus SH-50 versus Panasonic GX1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SH-50 (16MP) and the GX1 (16MP) is very close but the SH-50 (1/2.3") and GX1 (Four Thirds) provide totally different sensor measurements.

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The SH-50 was announced 11 months later than the GX1 so they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SH-50 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GX1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick summary of how the SH-50 scores versus the GX1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SH-50 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SH-50 Gallery and Panasonic GX1 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus SH-50 features physical dimensions of 112mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) and the Panasonic GX1 has measurements of 116mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") having a weight of 318 grams (0.70 lbs).

Check the Olympus SH-50 versus Panasonic GX1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have attached at the time. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the SH-50 compared to the GX1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SH-50 and GX1 is 88 and 87 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to envision the gap in sensor sizing merely by viewing technical specs. The visual underneath will give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the SH-50 and GX1.

As you have seen, both of the cameras come with the identical resolution but not the same sensor sizing. The SH-50 uses the smaller sensor which should make obtaining shallow DOF more difficult. The more recent SH-50 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.