Key Features
Jan 26 2011
Announced
10 megapixels
Resolution
| Brand | Olympus |
| Sensor Type | 1/1.63-inch |
| Sensor | CCD |
| Weight | 275g |
| MSRP | $499USD |
Other similar cameras
Olympus SZ-11
Released Jul 27 2011 | 14MP resolution
Olympus SZ-10
Released Feb 08 2011 | 14MP resolution
Olympus XZ-2 iHS
Released Dec 18 2012 | 12MP resolution
Overview of the XZ-1
When it comes to photography, brands like Canon and Nikon might come to mind first. However, Olympus XZ-1 camera is a hidden gem that has earned its spot in the market by its exceptional performance and features. If you are looking for a compact camera that is easy to use, yet packs a punch, then Olympus XZ-1 could be the one for you. In this blog, we have compiled detailed information about the technical specifications, features, and benefits of the Olympus XZ-1 camera. We will also share our firsthand experience using the camera to give you an honest review. So read on to find out everything you need to know about the Olympus XZ-1 camera, and why it could be the next best investment for your photography passion!
Olympus XZ-1 Pros and Cons
Now, we will look more closely at our review of the Olympus XZ-1 camera. We will see what it can do and compare it to other cameras like it. We will tell you what's good about it and what's not so good. This way, you'll know if it's the camera for you!
Pros
Cons
Build and Construction
Body and dimensions
Olympus XZ-1
| Weather sealed | |
| Dimensions | 111 x 65 x 42mm |
| Weight | 275g |
| Thickness | 42mm |
Weather Sealing
The Olympus XZ-1 is not sealed against water and dust, so it's important to be careful when using it in such conditions. If you often shoot in environments with water or dust, it's recommended to check out another camera with weather sealing.
Design and Handling
Main design features
| View Finder | Electronic (optional) |
| Screen Type | Fixed Type |
| Screen Resolution | 614k dots |
| Body type | Compact |
Suitable for:
| Photography | Above Avg. |
| Videography | Above Avg. |
| Travel | Above Avg. |
LCD Screen
This camera has a fixed type 3.00" screen, with a display resolution of 614k dots. This makes the Olympus XZ-1 not as suitable for those looking for a vlogging camera as you cannot view yourself while shooting selfies easily. Unfortunately, the camera does not have a touch screen, which may make it less user-friendly.
Viewfinder
XZ-1 includes a electronic (optional) viewfinder with no electronic viewfinder of resolution with a coverage of n/a and a magnification of n/a. This feature enhances the camera's suitability for outdoor photography in bright conditions.
Image Quality
Olympus XZ-1 has a 10MP sized CCD sensor. You can shoot at maximum resolution of 10 pixels. Olympus XZ-1 has a native ISO range of 100 - 6400 which can be boosted to null - null. It can also save files in RAW format which gives you a wider room for post processing.
Key Features
Jan 26 2011
Announced
100 - 6400
ISO Range
| Sensor | 1/1.63-inch |
| Extended ISO | null - null |
| Max resolution | 3664 x 2752 pixels |
DXO Sensor Scores
Overall
34 / 102
Color Depth
18.8 / 26.5
Dynamic Range
10.4 / 14.8
Low Light ISO
117 / 4505
DXO mark sensor scores
The DXOmark rankings indicate that the Olympus XZ-1 camera has average color depth performance, which refers to the number of colors the sensor can distinguish. Additionally, its dynamic range is also average, allowing it to retain low amounts of details in both bright and dark areas of a scene. The camera's low light ISO performance is poor, which is an important factor to consider if you plan to use it in dimly lit indoor environments or at night. Overall the image quality of the XZ-1 is poor
Crop Factor
Camera crop factor (or focal length multiplier) refers to how a camera's sensor size affects the apparent field of view of a lens. Crop factor is determined by comparing the size of a camera's sensor to that of a full-frame sensor, which is a standard reference size for camera sensors.
Size comparison
Crop factor calculator
Crop factor
1x
Full frame equivalent
24mm
This camera: 1/1.63-inch
24mm
Connectivity, storage, battery
| Storage | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
| Battery Life | 320 shots |
| Battery Model | Li-50B |
| HDMI | |
| USD | |
| Wireless Connectivity |
Storage
The Olympus XZ-1 supports SD/SDHC/SDXC with 1 slots for storage. This may suffice for everyday use. However, for professional applications such as wedding photography, it is not recommended as a memory card malfunction could lead to the loss of all footage.
Battery
The Olympus XZ-1 uses the Li-50B model of battery pack. This is rated for 320 shots shots which is high. If you intend to take photos or record videos for an extended period, it might be a good idea to bring along additional batteries.
Photography Features
Flash
The Olympus XZ-1 has built in flash which is great for event photography and in low light situations. It also offers a flash shoe that allows you to attach external flashes. This provides more versatility in your lighting choices.
Shutter
The Olympus XZ-1 boasts a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/2000s, which is ideal for shooting fast-moving subjects in bright environments, such as in sports photography. Faster shutter speeds enable you to freeze the action and capture every detail, making it easier to get the perfect shot.
With a continuous mechanical shutter speed of n/a or an electronic shutter speed of n/a, this camera is not capable of capturing the perfect moment more easily, making it not as suited for wedding, sports, and wildlife photography. Higher shutter speeds make it easier to capture fast-paced action, ensuring that you never miss the perfect shot.
Autofocus
The Olympus XZ-1 includes contrast detection autofocus (AF), with 11 number of focus points.
While contrast detection is generally more accurate and precise, phase detection autofocus is faster and more effective in most situations, particularly when photographing moving subjects.
Phase detection autofocus works by dividing the incoming light into pairs and then analyzing how they intersect on the camera's sensor. This method allows the camera to determine not only if a subject is in focus but also the direction and distance needed to adjust the focus to achieve perfect sharpness.
On the other hand, contrast detection autofocus works by analyzing the contrast of an image and adjusting the focus until the highest contrast is detected. While this method is very accurate, it can be slow, especially in low light conditions or when photographing moving subjects.
FAQ
The Olympus XZ-1 features a CCD sensor
No the XZ-1 does not have weather sealing.
The Olympus XZ-1 was announced on Jan 26 2011
Yes the XZ-1 does have in-body image stabilization that can compensate for camera shake, making it easier to shoot handheld in low light conditions.
The XZ-1 has a native ISO range of 100-6400, which can be expanded to ISO null-null for even greater sensitivity in low light conditions.
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