Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic GH1

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic GH1, former is a Small Sensor Compact while the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and the GH1 (12MP) is relatively similar but the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and GH1 (Four Thirds) feature different sensor sizing.

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The XZ-2 iHS was manufactured 3 years after the GH1 which is quite a large difference 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 GH1 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight into a in depth comparison, below is a brief summary of how the XZ-2 iHS scores vs the GH1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus XZ-2 iHS & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH1. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery & Panasonic GH1 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera, you will want to consider its weight and size. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS features outside dimensions of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") with a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs) while the Panasonic GH1 has specifications of 124mm x 90mm x 45mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 1.8") accompanied by a weight of 385 grams (0.85 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic GH1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are using at that moment. The following is the front view scale comparison of the XZ-2 iHS against the GH1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the XZ-2 iHS and GH1 is 85 and 81 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes only by reading specs. The image below might give you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the XZ-2 iHS and GH1.

All in all, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact MP albeit different sensor sizes. The XZ-2 iHS contains the tinier sensor which should make achieving shallow DOF trickier. The newer XZ-2 iHS provides an edge with regard to sensor innovation.