Olympus XZ-2 iHS vs Pentax E85

Lets take a closer look at the Olympus XZ-2 iHS versus Pentax E85, both Small Sensor Compact digital cameras by brands Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) and the E85 (12MP) is fairly similar but the XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") and E85 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The XZ-2 iHS was announced 3 years after the E85 which is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before we go into a more detailed comparison, here is a concise summation of how the XZ-2 iHS matches up vs the E85 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus XZ-2 iHS & Pentax Optio E85. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery & Pentax E85 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry around your camera frequently, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus XZ-2 iHS enjoys external measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") with a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs) whilst the Pentax E85 has measurements of 93mm x 58mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.9") with a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Examine the Olympus XZ-2 iHS versus Pentax E85 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you use at the time. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the XZ-2 iHS versus the E85.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the XZ-2 iHS and E85 is 85 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, its tough to see the gap between sensor sizes purely by going over a spec sheet. The image here should give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the XZ-2 iHS and E85.

Clearly, the 2 cameras provide the same megapixels but not the same sensor sizes. The XZ-2 iHS has the larger sensor which is going to make achieving shallower DOF simpler. The more modern XZ-2 iHS is going to have an advantage in sensor technology.