Olympus VG-120 vs Panasonic GX1

Here, we will be comparing the Olympus VG-120 versus Panasonic GX1, former is a Ultracompact while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the VG-120 (14MP) and the GX1 (16MP) is pretty comparable but the VG-120 (1/2.3") and GX1 (Four Thirds) posses totally different sensor dimensions.

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The VG-120 was revealed 13 months before the GX1 which makes them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus VG-120 being a Ultracompact camera and the Panasonic GX1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving right into a more detailed comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the VG-120 matches up vs the GX1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus VG-120 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX1. The full galleries are available at Olympus VG-120 Gallery & Panasonic GX1 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus VG-120 enjoys physical dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") with a weight of 120 grams (0.26 lbs) and the Panasonic GX1 has specifications of 116mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") having a weight of 318 grams (0.70 lbs).

See the Olympus VG-120 versus Panasonic GX1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached at that time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the VG-120 against the GX1.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the VG-120 and GX1 is 96 and 87 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to envision the difference in sensor sizes only by going through specifications. The image underneath may give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the VG-120 and GX1.

To sum up, both cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The VG-120 with its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Panasonic GX1 will provide greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also help you crop photographs a good deal more aggressively. The more aged VG-120 will be disadvantaged in sensor technology.