What To Know
- The Olympus XZ-1 features a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF), which is a major advantage for composing shots in bright sunlight or other situations where the LCD screen is difficult to see.
- The Olympus XZ-1 and the Canon S100 are both excellent compact cameras that offer a wide range of features and capabilities.
- If you prefer a more compact camera with a longer zoom range, the Canon S100 is a solid choice.
In the world of compact cameras, the Olympus XZ-1 and the Canon S100 stand out as two formidable contenders. Both cameras offer an impressive array of features, making them ideal for photographers seeking a compact and versatile shooting experience. This comprehensive comparison delves into the key differences between the Olympus XZ-1 and the Canon S100, helping you make an informed decision about which camera best suits your needs.
Image Quality
Sensor: The Olympus XZ-1 boasts a 12-megapixel 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor, while the Canon S100 features a 12.1-megapixel 1/1.7-inch CMOS sensor. Both sensors deliver excellent image quality, with sharp details and vibrant colors.
Lens: The XZ-1 has a versatile 4x optical zoom lens (28-112mm equivalent), providing a wider range of shooting possibilities compared to the S100’s 5x optical zoom lens (24-120mm equivalent).
Aperture and Shutter Speed
Aperture: The XZ-1 offers a wider maximum aperture of f/1.8-2.5, allowing for better low-light performance and more control over depth of field. The S100 has a maximum aperture of f/2.0-5.9, which is still respectable but not as versatile.
Shutter Speed: Both cameras offer a wide range of shutter speeds, from 1/2000s to 60s, providing flexibility for capturing both fast-moving subjects and long exposures.
ISO Performance
The Olympus XZ-1 and the Canon S100 both handle high ISO settings well, with minimal image noise. The XZ-1 has a slightly higher maximum ISO of 6400 compared to the S100’s 3200, but both cameras produce usable images at higher sensitivities.
Autofocus
Contrast-Detect AF: Both cameras use contrast-detect autofocus, which is generally less reliable than phase-detect AF. However, the XZ-1 has a faster and more accurate AF system than the S100, especially in low-light conditions.
Face Detection: Both cameras offer face detection, but the XZ-1’s system is more advanced, providing better accuracy and faster focusing on human subjects.
Manual Controls
The Olympus XZ-1 and the Canon S100 offer a comprehensive range of manual controls, allowing you to customize your shooting experience. Both cameras have dedicated dials for aperture, shutter speed, and exposure compensation.
Features and Connectivity
Built-in EVF: The Olympus XZ-1 features a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF), which is a major advantage for composing shots in bright sunlight or other situations where the LCD screen is difficult to see. The S100 does not have an EVF.
Connectivity: Both cameras offer Wi-Fi and NFC connectivity, allowing you to easily transfer images to your smartphone or other devices. The XZ-1 also has a built-in GPS receiver for geotagging your photos.
Summary: Which Camera is Right for You?
The Olympus XZ-1 and the Canon S100 are both excellent compact cameras that offer a wide range of features and capabilities. The XZ-1 stands out with its faster and more accurate autofocus, wider maximum aperture, and built-in EVF. However, the S100 has a slightly longer zoom range and a more compact design.
Ultimately, the best choice for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you prioritize image quality, autofocus performance, and manual controls, the Olympus XZ-1 is the better option. If you prefer a more compact camera with a longer zoom range, the Canon S100 is a solid choice.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: Which camera has better low-light performance?
A: The Olympus XZ-1 has a wider maximum aperture, giving it an advantage in low-light situations.
Q: Does the Canon S100 have an EVF?
A: No, the Canon S100 does not have a built-in EVF.
Q: Which camera is more suitable for street photography?
A: Both cameras are suitable for street photography, but the Olympus XZ-1’s faster autofocus and wider maximum aperture make it a slightly better choice.
Q: Does the Olympus XZ-1 have a touchscreen?
A: No, the Olympus XZ-1 does not have a touchscreen.
Q: Which camera has a longer battery life?
A: The Canon S100 has a slightly longer battery life than the Olympus XZ-1.
