Olympus SH-2 vs Panasonic GF2

Following is a in depth analysis of the Olympus SH-2 versus Panasonic GF2, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There is a large difference among the sensor resolutions of the SH-2 (16MP) and GF2 (12MP) and the SH-2 (1/2.3") and GF2 (Four Thirds) offer totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The SH-2 was revealed 4 years after the GF2 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus SH-2 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a short summation of how the SH-2 grades vs the GF2 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus Stylus SH-2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2. The full galleries are provided at Olympus SH-2 Gallery & Panasonic GF2 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera often, you will have to think about its weight and size. The Olympus SH-2 enjoys outer dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) while the Panasonic GF2 has specifications of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") with a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs).

Examine the Olympus SH-2 versus Panasonic GF2 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you use during that time. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the SH-2 against the GF2.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the SH-2 and GF2 is 88 and 88 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to see the contrast in sensor sizes merely by seeing specifications. The pic below should provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the SH-2 and GF2.

Plainly, each of the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The SH-2 with its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF more difficult and the Olympus SH-2 will produce more detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop images way more aggressively. The fresher SH-2 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.