Olympus VR-320 vs Panasonic GM1

Below, we will be reviewing the Olympus VR-320 versus Panasonic GM1, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the VR-320 (14MP) and the GM1 (16MP) is relatively similar but the VR-320 (1/2.3") and GM1 (Four Thirds) possess different sensor dimensions.

Samsung Releases Faster Versions of EVO MicroSD Cards

The VR-320 was introduced 3 years earlier than the GM1 and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras come with different body type with the Olympus VR-320 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before going through a in-depth comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the VR-320 matches up against the GM1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus VR-320 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus VR-320 Gallery & Panasonic GM1 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera often, you will need to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus VR-320 has got outside measurements of 101mm x 58mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.1") along with a weight of 158 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Panasonic GM1 has measurements of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs).

See the Olympus VR-320 versus Panasonic GM1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you select at the time. The following is the front view dimension comparison of the VR-320 versus the GM1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the VR-320 and GM1 is 94 and 93 respectively.

Quite often, it's difficult to visualize the gap between sensor sizing merely by going over specifications. The graphic below will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the VR-320 and GM1.

Plainly, the two cameras have got different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The VR-320 having a tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field harder and the Panasonic GM1 will offer greater detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs much more aggressively. The older VR-320 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.