Olympus 550WP vs Panasonic ZR1

Its time to look closer at the Olympus 550WP versus Panasonic ZR1, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the 550WP (10MP) and the ZR1 (12MP) is pretty similar and both cameras have the same sensor measurements (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The 550WP was manufactured 6 months before the ZR1 and they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before delving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief view of how the 550WP matches up vs the ZR1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus 550WP and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZR1. The entire galleries are available at Olympus 550WP Gallery and Panasonic ZR1 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera regularly, you need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus 550WP has physical dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") along with a weight of 167 grams (0.37 lbs) and the Panasonic ZR1 has dimensions of 98mm x 55mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") and a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs).

Compare the Olympus 550WP versus Panasonic ZR1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the 550WP vs the ZR1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the 550WP and ZR1 is 94 and 94 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to imagine the gap between sensor sizing merely by going over specifications. The visual here should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the 550WP and ZR1.

Plainly, the 2 cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Panasonic ZR1 to offer extra detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop photographs more aggressively.