Olympus VG-160 vs Panasonic GF2

Here is a in-depth assessment of the Olympus VG-160 and Panasonic GF2, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the VG-160 (14MP) and the GF2 (12MP) is very well matched but the VG-160 (1/2.3") and GF2 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor dimensions.

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The VG-160 was unveiled 11 months later than the GF2 and they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus VG-160 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight into a in depth comparison, below is a quick summation of how the VG-160 grades against the GF2 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus VG-160 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2. The full galleries are available at Olympus VG-160 Gallery & Panasonic GF2 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera regularly, you're going to have to factor its weight and size. The Olympus VG-160 enjoys outside dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GF2 has specifications of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") and a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus VG-160 and Panasonic GF2 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are utilizing at that time. The following is the front view dimensions comparison of the VG-160 against the GF2.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the VG-160 and GF2 is 96 and 88 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to see the difference between sensor sizing only by reading through technical specs. The photograph underneath might give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the VG-160 and GF2.

As you have seen, both of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The VG-160 with its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field harder and the Olympus VG-160 will give you more detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop pics a little more aggressively. The more recent VG-160 is going to have an edge in sensor innovation.