Olympus VR-320 vs Panasonic GH1

Following is a extended comparison of the Olympus VR-320 and Panasonic GH1, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the VR-320 (14MP) and the GH1 (12MP) is relatively comparable but the VR-320 (1/2.3") and GH1 (Four Thirds) boast totally different sensor measurements.

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The VR-320 was introduced 2 years after the GH1 which is a fairly large difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus VR-320 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting right into a detailed comparison, here is a short introduction of how the VR-320 scores versus the GH1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus VR-320 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1. The whole galleries are available at Olympus VR-320 Gallery & Panasonic GH1 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera often, you will have to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus VR-320 features external measurements of 101mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) and the Panasonic GH1 has sizing of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") with a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Compare the Olympus VR-320 and Panasonic GH1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you choose at that moment. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the VR-320 compared to the GH1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the VR-320 and GH1 is 94 and 81 respectively.

More often than not, it can be difficult to see the contrast in sensor sizes just by checking out specs. The pic below will offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the VR-320 and GH1.

All in all, both of those cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The VR-320 using its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field trickier and the Olympus VR-320 will show greater detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots more aggressively. The more recent VR-320 will have a benefit in sensor technology.