Olympus XZ-1 vs Zeiss ZX1

Its time to take a deeper look at the Olympus XZ-1 and Zeiss ZX1, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Large Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Zeiss. There is a significant difference among the resolutions of the XZ-1 (10MP) and ZX1 (37MP) and the XZ-1 (1/1.63") and ZX1 (Full frame) come with totally different sensor sizes.

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The XZ-1 was introduced 8 years prior to the ZX1 which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus XZ-1 being a Compact camera and the Zeiss ZX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before going through a complete comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the XZ-1 matches up versus the ZX1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus XZ-1 and Zeiss ZX1. The whole galleries are available at Olympus XZ-1 Gallery and Zeiss ZX1 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry around your camera, you are going to need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus XZ-1 has exterior measurements of 111mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.7") and a weight of 275 grams (0.61 lbs) whilst the Zeiss ZX1 has dimensions of 142mm x 93mm x 46mm (5.6" x 3.7" x 1.8") and a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Compare the Olympus XZ-1 and Zeiss ZX1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you choose at the time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the XZ-1 against the ZX1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the XZ-1 and ZX1 is 88 and 67 respectively.

In many cases, it can be difficult to see the contrast in sensor sizes just by viewing a spec sheet. The pic here might offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the XZ-1 and ZX1.

As you can see, each of these cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The XZ-1 with its smaller sensor will make shooting bokeh more difficult and the Zeiss ZX1 will result in extra detail using its extra 27MP. Greater resolution can also let you crop images a little more aggressively. The more aged XZ-1 will be behind in sensor innovation.