Olympus 1 vs Panasonic ZS7

The following is a in-depth assessment of the Olympus 1 and Panasonic ZS7, both Small Sensor Superzoom digital cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the 1 (12MP) and the ZS7 (12MP) is relatively similar but the 1 (1/1.7") and ZS7 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor size.

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The 1 was launched 2 years after the ZS7 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus 1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Panasonic ZS7 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a detailed comparison, below is a concise summation of how the 1 scores against the ZS7 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus 1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS7. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus 1 Gallery and Panasonic ZS7 Gallery.

When you are looking to travel with your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus 1 enjoys outer dimensions of 116mm x 87mm x 57mm (4.6" x 3.4" x 2.2") along with a weight of 402 grams (0.89 lbs) whilst the Panasonic ZS7 has measurements of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs).

Check out the Olympus 1 and Panasonic ZS7 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Underneath is the front view sizing comparison of the 1 vs the ZS7.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the 1 and ZS7 is 79 and 91 respectively.

Usually, its hard to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions purely by going over specs. The image underneath will help provide you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 and ZS7.

All in all, both cameras offer the same exact resolution albeit not the same sensor dimensions. The 1 includes the bigger sensor which will make obtaining shallower depth of field easier. The newer 1 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.