Olympus 8010 vs Panasonic GF2

In this article, we are analyzing the Olympus 8010 versus Panasonic GF2, one being a Waterproof and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the 8010 (13MP) and the GF2 (12MP) is fairly close but the 8010 (1/2.3") and GF2 (Four Thirds) possess different sensor dimensions.

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The 8010 was announced 12 months prior to the GF2 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus 8010 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving through a detailed comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the 8010 matches up vs the GF2 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus Tough 8010 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus 8010 Gallery and Panasonic GF2 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera regularly, you have to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus 8010 comes with physical measurements of 98mm x 64mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.5" x 0.9") having a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs) and the Panasonic GF2 has sizing of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") with a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus 8010 versus Panasonic GF2 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are using at that time. The following is the front view physical size comparison of the 8010 and the GF2.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 8010 and GF2 is 92 and 88 respectively.

Quite often, it's hard to visualize the gap in sensor sizing only by looking through specs. The photograph here might give you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the 8010 and GF2.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The 8010 with its smaller sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF more challenging and the Olympus 8010 will provide you with more detail with its extra 1MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The older 8010 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.