Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic GF1

In this article, we will be analyzing the Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic GF1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a sizeable gap among the resolutions of the SH-1 (16MP) and GF1 (12MP) and the SH-1 (1/2.3") and GF1 (Four Thirds) come with totally different sensor measurements.

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The SH-1 was announced 4 years later than the GF1 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus SH-1 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going straight into a complete comparison, below is a simple overview of how the SH-1 grades versus the GF1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus SH-1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SH-1 Gallery and Panasonic GF1 Gallery.

In case you're going to lug around your camera frequently, you need to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus SH-1 offers external dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") along with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Panasonic GF1 has specifications of 119mm x 71mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") with a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic GF1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using at the time. Following is the front view dimensions comparison of the SH-1 versus the GF1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SH-1 and GF1 is 88 and 85 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to see the contrast in sensor measurements simply by seeing technical specs. The graphic underneath may give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the SH-1 and GF1.

As you can tell, both cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The SH-1 with its smaller sensor will make getting shallower DOF more challenging and the Olympus SH-1 will produce extra detail with its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop shots a little more aggressively. The younger SH-1 will have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.