Olympus 8010 vs Panasonic XS1

Here is a comprehensive analysis of the Olympus 8010 vs Panasonic XS1, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the 8010 (13MP) and the XS1 (16MP) is pretty well matched and they come with the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The 8010 was announced 3 years prior to the XS1 and that is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting through a detailed comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the 8010 scores versus the XS1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus Tough 8010 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1. The whole galleries are available at Olympus 8010 Gallery and Panasonic XS1 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera often, you will need to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus 8010 offers outside dimensions of 98mm x 64mm x 24mm (3.9" x 2.5" x 0.9") having a weight of 245 grams (0.54 lbs) whilst the Panasonic XS1 has proportions of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") and a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs).

Look at the Olympus 8010 vs Panasonic XS1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilising at that time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the 8010 against the XS1.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the 8010 and XS1 is 92 and 97 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to visualize the difference between sensor sizing just by reading through technical specs. The photograph below will provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the 8010 and XS1.

As you have seen, both of those cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should expect the Panasonic XS1 to give you more detail with its extra 3 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The older 8010 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.