Olympus VG-160 vs Panasonic XS1

Let's take a closer look at the Olympus VG-160 vs Panasonic XS1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the VG-160 (14MP) and the XS1 (16MP) is relatively close and they come with the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The VG-160 was unveiled 12 months before the XS1 which means that they are both of a similar age. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a detailed comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the VG-160 scores against the XS1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus VG-160 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1. The full galleries are provided at Olympus VG-160 Gallery & Panasonic XS1 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera often, you are going to need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus VG-160 has got outside measurements of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") accompanied by a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) while the Panasonic XS1 has dimensions of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") with a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs).

Examine the Olympus VG-160 vs Panasonic XS1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you choose at that time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the VG-160 against the XS1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the VG-160 and XS1 is 96 and 97 respectively.

Quite often, it is very tough to see the difference in sensor sizing simply by researching specs. The photograph underneath should give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the VG-160 and XS1.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You can count on the Panasonic XS1 to result in more detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older VG-160 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.