Olympus VR-320 vs Panasonic S1

On this page, we are matching up the Olympus VR-320 vs Panasonic S1, one is a Small Sensor Superzoom and the other is a Pro Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a huge gap between the resolutions of the VR-320 (14MP) and S1 (24MP) and the VR-320 (1/2.3") and S1 (Full frame) offer totally different sensor size.

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The VR-320 was revealed 8 years earlier than the S1 which is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Olympus VR-320 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting right into a full comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the VR-320 scores against the S1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus VR-320 and Panasonic Lumix DC-S1. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus VR-320 Gallery and Panasonic S1 Gallery.

When you are looking to travel with your camera frequently, you will want to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus VR-320 has physical dimensions of 101mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Panasonic S1 has measurements of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") along with a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus VR-320 vs Panasonic S1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have attached at the time. The following is a front view dimension comparison of the VR-320 and the S1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the VR-320 and S1 is 94 and 54 respectively.

Normally, it's tough to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions just by looking at technical specs. The image underneath will provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the VR-320 and S1.

As you have seen, each of the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The VR-320 using its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult and the Panasonic S1 will give you greater detail because of its extra 10MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos more aggressively. The more aged VR-320 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.