Olympus SH-2 vs Panasonic S1

Here is a comprehensive assessment of the Olympus SH-2 vs Panasonic S1, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a crucial difference between the sensor resolutions of the SH-2 (16MP) and S1 (12MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

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The SH-2 was introduced 4 years later than the S1 and that is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the SH-2 grades vs the S1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus SH-2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus SH-2 Gallery and Panasonic S1 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera, you have to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus SH-2 comes with external dimensions of 109mm x 63mm x 42mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.7") having a weight of 271 grams (0.60 lbs) and the Panasonic S1 has specifications of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") having a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Compare the Olympus SH-2 vs Panasonic S1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are employing at the time. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the SH-2 and the S1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the SH-2 and S1 is 88 and 96 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing purely by reviewing specs. The graphic here might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the SH-2 and S1.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Olympus SH-2 to offer you greater detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs more aggressively. The newer SH-2 provides a benefit with regard to sensor tech.