Olympus 1 vs Panasonic FS12

In this write-up, we are matching up the Olympus 1 versus Panasonic FS12, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Ultracompact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the 1 (12MP) and the FS12 (12MP) is very similar but the 1 (1/1.7") and FS12 (1/2.3") use different sensor size.

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The 1 was unveiled 4 years later than the FS12 and that is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus 1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic FS12 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving in to a thorough comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the 1 scores vs the FS12 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus 1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FS12. The full galleries are available at Olympus 1 Gallery & Panasonic FS12 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus 1 has outside dimensions of 116mm x 87mm x 57mm (4.6" x 3.4" x 2.2") accompanied by a weight of 402 grams (0.89 lbs) while the Panasonic FS12 has sizing of 97mm x 55mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.9") along with a weight of 129 grams (0.28 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus 1 versus Panasonic FS12 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached at the time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the 1 versus the FS12.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the 1 and FS12 is 79 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing only by going over a spec sheet. The visual here will give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 and FS12.

As you can see, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact resolution but different sensor sizing. The 1 uses the larger sensor which should make obtaining shallower depth of field less difficult. The younger 1 should have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.