Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic FH1

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Olympus XZ-2 iHS versus Panasonic FH1, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and the FH1 (12MP) is very well matched but the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and FH1 (1/2.3") use different sensor dimensions.

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The XZ-2 iHS was unveiled 2 years after the FH1 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before diving through a complete comparison, below is a concise synopsis of how the XZ-2 iHS scores against the FH1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FH1. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery and Panasonic FH1 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry around your camera often, you will have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS features exterior measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") along with a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs) while the Panasonic FH1 has measurements of 98mm x 55mm x 23mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 0.9") and a weight of 163 grams (0.36 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus XZ-2 iHS versus Panasonic FH1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the XZ-2 iHS compared to the FH1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the XZ-2 iHS and FH1 is 85 and 95 respectively.

Often, it is tough to picture the gap between sensor sizes only by checking specifications. The image below may offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the XZ-2 iHS and FH1.

Plainly, both cameras offer the same exact MP but different sensor sizes. The XZ-2 iHS contains the larger sensor which will make obtaining shallow DOF simpler. The newer XZ-2 iHS should have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.