Olympus SP-610UZ vs Panasonic GM1

Below, we will be analyzing the Olympus SP-610UZ and Panasonic GM1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the SP-610UZ (14MP) and the GM1 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the SP-610UZ (1/2.3") and GM1 (Four Thirds) enjoy different sensor size.

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The SP-610UZ was launched 3 years prior to the GM1 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SP-610UZ being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the SP-610UZ matches up against the GM1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus SP-610UZ & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus SP-610UZ Gallery & Panasonic GM1 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera regularly, you have to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus SP-610UZ has outer dimensions of 107mm x 73mm x 73mm (4.2" x 2.9" x 2.9") with a weight of 405 grams (0.89 lbs) while the Panasonic GM1 has sizing of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SP-610UZ and Panasonic GM1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you select at that moment. Below is the front view size comparison of the SP-610UZ vs the GM1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SP-610UZ and GM1 is 79 and 93 respectively.

Normally, it can be hard to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing only by reading through technical specs. The visual below may give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the SP-610UZ and GM1.

As you can tell, the two cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SP-610UZ because of its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult and the Panasonic GM1 will give greater detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop photographs somewhat more aggressively. The older SP-610UZ is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.