Olympus 1 vs Panasonic ZS5

Following is a comprehensive review of the Olympus 1 and Panasonic ZS5, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the 1 (12MP) and the ZS5 (12MP) is relatively similar but the 1 (1/1.7") and ZS5 (1/2.3") possess different sensor sizes.

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The 1 was brought out 3 years after the ZS5 which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus 1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS5 being a Compact camera.

Before getting through a full comparison, below is a short view of how the 1 matches up versus the ZS5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus 1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS5. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus 1 Gallery & Panasonic ZS5 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry around your camera, you will want to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus 1 has got exterior measurements of 116mm x 87mm x 57mm (4.6" x 3.4" x 2.2") having a weight of 402 grams (0.89 lbs) while the Panasonic ZS5 has measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 32mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus 1 and Panasonic ZS5 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you select during that time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the 1 and the ZS5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the 1 and ZS5 is 79 and 92 respectively.

Usually, it's hard to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes merely by going over technical specs. The picture underneath should provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 and ZS5.

As you can tell, both the cameras have got the exact same MP albeit different sensor sizes. The 1 provides the bigger sensor which will make obtaining shallow DOF simpler. The more recent 1 provides an edge with regard to sensor technology.