Olympus VR-340 vs Panasonic LF1

Its time to look more in depth at the Olympus VR-340 versus Panasonic LF1, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a substantial gap among the sensor resolutions of the VR-340 (16MP) and LF1 (12MP) and the VR-340 (1/2.3") and LF1 (1/1.7") posses different sensor dimensions.

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The VR-340 was introduced 22 months prior to the LF1 which makes them a generation away from one another. Both the cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before getting straight to a thorough comparison, here is a concise summary of how the VR-340 grades against the LF1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus VR-340 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LF1. The whole galleries are available at Olympus VR-340 Gallery & Panasonic LF1 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera frequently, you have to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus VR-340 offers physical dimensions of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") with a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs) while the Panasonic LF1 has measurements of 103mm x 62mm x 28mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 192 grams (0.42 lbs).

Compare the Olympus VR-340 versus Panasonic LF1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that moment. Below is a front view overall size comparison of the VR-340 compared to the LF1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the VR-340 and LF1 is 96 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it is tough to visualize the contrast in sensor sizes merely by researching a spec sheet. The image below should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the VR-340 and LF1.

As you can see, both cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The VR-340 using its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field trickier and the Olympus VR-340 will provide you with extra detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots more aggressively. The more aged VR-340 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.