Olympus 1 vs Sony A500

Here, we will be analyzing the Olympus 1 versus Sony A500, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the 1 (12MP) and the A500 (12MP) is relatively close but the 1 (1/1.7") and A500 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizes.

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The 1 was revealed 4 years later than the A500 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus 1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Sony A500 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before going right into a complete comparison, here is a quick summary of how the 1 scores vs the A500 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus 1 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A500. The full galleries are provided at Olympus 1 Gallery and Sony A500 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera, you need to factor its weight and size. The Olympus 1 offers exterior measurements of 116mm x 87mm x 57mm (4.6" x 3.4" x 2.2") and a weight of 402 grams (0.89 lbs) whilst the Sony A500 has specifications of 137mm x 104mm x 84mm (5.4" x 4.1" x 3.3") along with a weight of 630 grams (1.39 lbs).

Examine the Olympus 1 versus Sony A500 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are using at that moment. Here is a front view scale comparison of the 1 and the A500.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 1 and A500 is 79 and 63 respectively.

Sometimes, it's tough to envision the gap in sensor sizing only by looking through technical specs. The graphic here might offer you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the 1 and A500.

As you can tell, both cameras come with the identical megapixel count albeit not the same sensor sizing. The 1 offers the smaller sensor which is going to make achieving shallow DOF more challenging. The younger 1 will have an edge in sensor tech.