Olympus 550WP vs Panasonic GH1

Here is a extended analysis of the Olympus 550WP and Panasonic GH1, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the 550WP (10MP) and the GH1 (12MP) is relatively close but the 550WP (1/2.3") and GH1 (Four Thirds) posses totally different sensor measurements.

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The 550WP was brought out 6 months prior to the GH1 and they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus 550WP being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief view of how the 550WP grades vs the GH1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus 550WP and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1. The entire galleries are available at Olympus 550WP Gallery and Panasonic GH1 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera regularly, you will want to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus 550WP has exterior dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") and a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) while the Panasonic GH1 has sizing of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") with a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Compare the Olympus 550WP and Panasonic GH1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilising at that time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the 550WP compared to the GH1.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the 550WP and GH1 is 94 and 81 respectively.

Generally, it can be difficult to envision the gap in sensor sizing just by looking through a spec sheet. The visual below should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the 550WP and GH1.

As you can see, both cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The 550WP due to its smaller sensor will make getting bokeh tougher and the Panasonic GH1 will provide you with greater detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots more aggressively.