Olympus XZ-1 vs Panasonic LX7

In this article, we will be evaluating the Olympus XZ-1 versus Panasonic LX7, both Small Sensor Compact cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the XZ-1 (10MP) and the LX7 (10MP) is relatively comparable but the XZ-1 (1/1.63") and LX7 (1/1.7") enjoy different sensor measurements.

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The XZ-1 was announced 20 months earlier than the LX7 which makes the cameras a generation away from one another. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before going in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple view of how the XZ-1 scores against the LX7 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus XZ-1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX7. The whole galleries are available at Olympus XZ-1 Gallery and Panasonic LX7 Gallery.

If you're looking to travel with your camera frequently, you'll have to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus XZ-1 enjoys physical dimensions of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") along with a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs) and the Panasonic LX7 has sizing of 111mm x 68mm x 46mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.8") having a weight of 298 grams (0.66 lbs).

Look at the Olympus XZ-1 versus Panasonic LX7 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have attached at that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the XZ-1 versus the LX7.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the XZ-1 and LX7 is 88 and 86 respectively.

Typically, it is difficult to imagine the gap in sensor dimensions simply by going through specs. The picture underneath will help provide you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the XZ-1 and LX7.

As you can plainly see, both of these cameras offer the same exact megapixels albeit different sensor dimensions. The XZ-1 offers the bigger sensor which will make achieving shallower DOF less difficult. The more aged XZ-1 will be behind with regard to sensor technology.