Olympus 550WP vs Panasonic GF1

Here, we are analyzing the Olympus 550WP versus Panasonic GF1, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the 550WP (10MP) and the GF1 (12MP) is very comparable but the 550WP (1/2.3") and GF1 (Four Thirds) boast different sensor sizing.

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The 550WP was revealed 9 months prior to the GF1 and they are of a similar age. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus 550WP being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a in-depth comparison, here is a short view of how the 550WP grades versus the GF1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus 550WP & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The full galleries are available at Olympus 550WP Gallery & Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

If you are going to travel with your camera frequently, you'll need to consider its weight and size. The Olympus 550WP provides outside dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") accompanied by a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GF1 has specifications of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") along with a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus 550WP versus Panasonic GF1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you choose during that time. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the 550WP and the GF1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the 550WP and GF1 is 94 and 85 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to picture the contrast in sensor dimensions purely by seeing a spec sheet. The image below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the 550WP and GF1.

As you can see, both of these cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The 550WP having a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field tougher and the Panasonic GF1 will provide more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The more aged 550WP will be behind in sensor technology.