Olympus SP-590 UZ vs Panasonic GF1

Below, we are comparing the Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic GF1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SP-590 UZ (12MP) and the GF1 (12MP) is very comparable but the SP-590 UZ (1/2.3") and GF1 (Four Thirds) feature different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The SP-590 UZ was released 9 months prior to the GF1 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a concise view of how the SP-590 UZ grades against the GF1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SP-590 UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery & Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

If you're intending to carry your camera, you need to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus SP-590 UZ enjoys exterior dimensions of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") and a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) and the Panasonic GF1 has measurements of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SP-590 UZ and Panasonic GF1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached at the time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the SP-590 UZ compared to the GF1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SP-590 UZ and GF1 is 72 and 85 respectively.

More often than not, it is very hard to picture the contrast in sensor sizing merely by checking out specifications. The visual here should give you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the SP-590 UZ and GF1.

Plainly, each of these cameras have got the exact same megapixels but different sensor sizing. The SP-590 UZ provides the smaller sensor which is going to make getting bokeh trickier. The older SP-590 UZ will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.