Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic ZS1

Here, we will be looking at the Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic ZS1, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and the ZS1 (10MP) is pretty well matched but the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and ZS1 (1/2.5") offer different sensor measurements.

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The XZ-2 iHS was launched 3 years after the ZS1 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact).

Before going right into a complete comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the XZ-2 iHS grades versus the ZS1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus XZ-2 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery and Panasonic ZS1 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera regularly, you have to think about its weight and size. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS provides outside measurements 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 ZS1 has specifications of 103mm x 60mm x 33mm (4.1" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 229 grams (0.50 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Panasonic ZS1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you use at that time. Here is a front view scale comparison of the XZ-2 iHS versus the ZS1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the XZ-2 iHS and ZS1 is 85 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it's difficult to picture the difference between sensor sizes only by reading through specifications. The picture here might give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the XZ-2 iHS and ZS1.

To sum up, both cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The XZ-2 iHS because of its bigger sensor is going to make getting bokeh less difficult and the Olympus XZ-2 iHS will give greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will help you crop pictures way more aggressively. The more modern XZ-2 iHS should have an edge with regard to sensor technology.