Olympus XZ-1 vs Panasonic S1

Here, we are evaluating the Olympus XZ-1 versus Panasonic S1, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the other is a Pro Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a noticeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the XZ-1 (10MP) and S1 (24MP) and the XZ-1 (1/1.63") and S1 (Full frame) offer different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The XZ-1 was unveiled 9 years prior to the S1 which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus XZ-1 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic S1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going into a complete comparison, here is a simple highlight of how the XZ-1 grades vs the S1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus XZ-1 & Panasonic Lumix DC-S1. The full galleries are provided at Olympus XZ-1 Gallery & Panasonic S1 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry around your camera often, you need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus XZ-1 has outside measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") with a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs) while the Panasonic S1 has dimensions of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") accompanied by a weight of 1021 grams (2.25 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus XZ-1 versus Panasonic S1 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Following is a front view overall size comparison of the XZ-1 versus the S1.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the XZ-1 and S1 is 88 and 54 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is tough to visualize the gap between sensor sizes purely by looking at technical specs. The picture below will provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the XZ-1 and S1.

As you have seen, both of these cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The XZ-1 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF more challenging and the Panasonic S1 will give you greater detail having an extra 14MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The more aged XZ-1 is going to be behind in sensor innovation.