Canon 30D vs Olympus E-510

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Canon 30D and Olympus E-510, both Advanced DSLR digital cameras by brands Canon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the 30D (8MP) and the E-510 (10MP) is relatively well matched but the 30D (APS-C) and E-510 (Four Thirds) use different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The 30D was announced 19 months earlier than the E-510 which makes the cameras a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Mid-size SLR).

Before diving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a short view of how the 30D scores vs the E-510 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon EOS 30D & Olympus E-510. The whole galleries are provided at Canon 30D Gallery & Olympus E-510 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to travel with your camera frequently, you need to consider its weight and proportions. The Canon 30D enjoys outer dimensions of 144mm x 106mm x 74mm (5.7" x 4.2" x 2.9") having a weight of 784 grams (1.73 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-510 has measurements of 136mm x 92mm x 68mm (5.4" x 3.6" x 2.7") along with a weight of 490 grams (1.08 lbs).

Look at the Canon 30D and Olympus E-510 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you have during that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the 30D against the E-510.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the 30D and E-510 is 58 and 69 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to visualize the contrast between sensor dimensions merely by looking at specifications. The pic here might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the 30D and E-510.

Plainly, both the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The 30D using its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field easier and the Olympus E-510 will give greater detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more aged 30D is going to be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.