Olympus VR-340 vs Panasonic GH2

Lets look more closely at the Olympus VR-340 and Panasonic GH2, former being a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the VR-340 (16MP) and the GH2 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the VR-340 (1/2.3") and GH2 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor dimensions.

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The VR-340 was announced 10 months later than the GH2 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus VR-340 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GH2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a concise highlight of how the VR-340 matches up versus the GH2 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus VR-340 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2. The whole galleries are available at Olympus VR-340 Gallery & Panasonic GH2 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera often, you are going to need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus VR-340 provides exterior measurements of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") and a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) and the Panasonic GH2 has measurements of 124mm x 90mm x 76mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 3.0") along with a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus VR-340 and Panasonic GH2 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the VR-340 against the GH2.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the VR-340 and GH2 is 96 and 70 respectively.

Typically, it's hard to visualise the difference between sensor sizing only by looking at a spec sheet. The graphic below might give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the VR-340 and GH2.

As you can see, each of the cameras offer the same exact megapixel count albeit not the same sensor sizing. The VR-340 provides the tinier sensor which will make getting bokeh more difficult. The newer VR-340 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.