Olympus XZ-10 vs Panasonic GF2

Here is a in depth assessment of the Olympus XZ-10 versus Panasonic GF2, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the XZ-10 (12MP) and the GF2 (12MP) is fairly similar but the XZ-10 (1/2.3") and GF2 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The XZ-10 was revealed 24 months later than the GF2 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus XZ-10 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going through a in-depth comparison, below is a quick highlight of how the XZ-10 matches up vs the GF2 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus XZ-10 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus XZ-10 Gallery & Panasonic GF2 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry your camera often, you will want to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus XZ-10 has outside dimensions of 102mm x 61mm x 34mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 221 grams (0.49 lbs) and the Panasonic GF2 has measurements of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") with a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs).

Check the Olympus XZ-10 versus Panasonic GF2 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you use during that time. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the XZ-10 against the GF2.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the XZ-10 and GF2 is 91 and 88 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to envision the gap between sensor sizing simply by reading specs. The photograph underneath may offer you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the XZ-10 and GF2.

All in all, each of these cameras enjoy the same exact MP but not the same sensor sizing. The XZ-10 comes with the tinier sensor which should make achieving shallower depth of field more challenging. The fresher XZ-10 will have a benefit in sensor technology.