Olympus SZ-12 vs Panasonic GM1

Here is a detailed overview of the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic GM1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the GM1 (16MP) is pretty close but the SZ-12 (1/2.3") and GM1 (Four Thirds) offer different sensor size.

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The SZ-12 was announced 23 months before the GM1 which makes them a generation apart from each other. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SZ-12 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting into a full comparison, here is a short overview of how the SZ-12 matches up against the GM1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-12 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1. The whole galleries are available at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery and Panasonic GM1 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry your camera often, you'll need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SZ-12 enjoys outside dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") along with a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) and the Panasonic GM1 has dimensions of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") along with a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SZ-12 versus Panasonic GM1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are employing at that moment. Following is a front view size comparison of the SZ-12 versus the GM1.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-12 and GM1 is 89 and 93 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to visualize the gap in sensor sizing merely by researching technical specs. The visual underneath should provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-12 and GM1.

As you have seen, both of those cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The SZ-12 with its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow depth of field tougher and the Panasonic GM1 will provide you with extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will help you crop photographs way more aggressively. The older SZ-12 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.