“The 3-inch LCD is unfortunately limited to 230,000 pixels, though it is large and vibrant thanks to its HyperCrystal technology.”

-Imaging Resource

“…we were supervised that a premium model like this doesn’t have a higher resolution screen (230,000 dots on a 3.0″ LCD is pretty low these days)”

- DPReview

I used to be much of the same opinion as the above quotes regarding 230,000 pixel screens until a much more tech savvy and rational buddy of mine started pointing out some stuff I’d never calculated while I was Zune shopping, and I think it’s worth showing here.

OK, let’s consider 3 devices. One is my 22″ HD monitor, capable of more than just shy of 1080 HD video at its native resolution. Another is my new Zune, sporting a well-reviewed 3.2″ screen with sharp, lively video. And finally let’s consider the routinely panned 3″ screen on the EP-1 (and many other contemporary cameras). Which one you got your bets on having the best rez? Find out after the jump.

Why yes, yes that is right, the EP-1 easily wins the resolution contest. Hands down, far and above. So, why the routine panning of 230,000 pixels? At a guess, I’d say it has to do with the resolution of the image being sent to them, and not with the actual screen. But, that’s just my guess. Also, as far as critiques about judging focus, that has more to do with the use of low-rez JPEGs (the zooming in of which shows no more detail beyond the aliasing of the JPEG algorithm) and the law of physics that says that the smaller an image the more of it will appear to be in focus. The precise reason the best screen gets panned? No idea, but it seems somehow unfair.