Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic G1

Lets look a bit more closely at the Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic G1, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and the G1 (12MP) is relatively similar but the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and G1 (Four Thirds) enjoy totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The XZ-2 iHS was announced 3 years later than the G1 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus XZ-2 iHS being a Compact camera and the Panasonic G1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going through a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise overview of how the XZ-2 iHS scores versus the G1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G1. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery and Panasonic G1 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera, you have to take into account its weight and volume. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS comes with physical dimensions of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") and a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs) whilst the Panasonic G1 has sizing of 124mm x 84mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 1.8") and a weight of 360 grams (0.79 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic G1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilizing during that time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the XZ-2 iHS against the G1.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the XZ-2 iHS and G1 is 85 and 82 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is tough to envision the difference between sensor sizing only by reading technical specs. The graphic below might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the XZ-2 iHS and G1.

As you can tell, both the cameras enjoy the same exact resolution albeit not the same sensor sizing. The XZ-2 iHS includes the tinier sensor which should make obtaining shallower depth of field more difficult. The more modern XZ-2 iHS is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.