Olympus SH-1 vs Panasonic S1

In this article, we will be evaluating the Olympus SH-1 versus Panasonic S1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a considerable gap among the sensor resolutions of the SH-1 (16MP) and S1 (12MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The SH-1 was announced 3 years later than the S1 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going through a more detailed comparison, below is a quick summary of how the SH-1 scores versus the S1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SH-1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SH-1 Gallery & Panasonic S1 Gallery.

When you are going to lug around your camera, you will have to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus SH-1 provides outer measurements of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") with a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Panasonic S1 has measurements of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") along with a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus SH-1 versus Panasonic S1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are utilizing at the time. The following is the front view dimensions comparison of the SH-1 against the S1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SH-1 and S1 is 88 and 96 respectively.

Typically, it's hard to envision the gap in sensor measurements merely by checking out specs. The visual here will give you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the SH-1 and S1.

All in all, both of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Olympus SH-1 to provide extra detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more modern SH-1 is going to have an edge in sensor innovation.