Olympus SZ-11 vs Panasonic GX1

Lets examine more closely at the Olympus SZ-11 versus Panasonic GX1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the SZ-11 (14MP) and the GX1 (16MP) is very well matched but the SZ-11 (1/2.3") and GX1 (Four Thirds) come with different sensor sizes.

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The SZ-11 was introduced 6 months before the GX1 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus SZ-11 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GX1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go in to a complete comparison, below is a short overview of how the SZ-11 grades against the GX1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus SZ-11 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SZ-11 Gallery and Panasonic GX1 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-11 features physical measurements of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Panasonic GX1 has specifications 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 SZ-11 versus Panasonic GX1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use at that moment. Here is the front view scale comparison of the SZ-11 compared to the GX1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-11 and GX1 is 89 and 87 respectively.

Sometimes, its tough to imagine the difference between sensor sizing only by reading through specifications. The visual here should give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the SZ-11 and GX1.

Plainly, both the cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SZ-11 using its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF more challenging and the Panasonic GX1 will resolve greater detail using its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images much more aggressively.