Olympus 9000 vs Panasonic L1

Here is a in-depth overview of the Olympus 9000 and Panasonic L1, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Advanced DSLR by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a sizable gap between the resolutions of the 9000 (12MP) and L1 (7MP) and the 9000 (1/2.3") and L1 (Four Thirds) provide totally different sensor sizes.

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The 9000 was revealed 2 years later than the L1 and that is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus 9000 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic L1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before getting straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a short view of how the 9000 matches up versus the L1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus 9000 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1. The full galleries are provided at Olympus 9000 Gallery & Panasonic L1 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera, you have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus 9000 comes with exterior measurements of 96mm x 60mm x 31mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 225 grams (0.50 lbs) while the Panasonic L1 has specifications of 146mm x 87mm x 77mm (5.7" x 3.4" x 3.0") with a weight of 606 grams (1.34 lbs).

Examine the Olympus 9000 and Panasonic L1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have during that time. Here is a front view physical size comparison of the 9000 compared to the L1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the 9000 and L1 is 92 and 65 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizing merely by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic here will give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the 9000 and L1.

As you can see, the 2 cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The 9000 having a tinier sensor will make shooting shallower DOF more challenging and the Olympus 9000 will give you greater detail because of its extra 5MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more modern 9000 is going to have an advantage in sensor innovation.