Canon M vs Olympus E-PL1s

Its time to take a deeper look at the Canon M versus Olympus E-PL1s, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Canon and Olympus. There exists a large gap among the sensor resolutions of the M (18MP) and E-PL1s (12MP) and the M (APS-C) and E-PL1s (Four Thirds) have totally different sensor sizing.

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The M was revealed 21 months after the E-PL1s making them a generation away from one another. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going into a thorough comparison, here is a brief overview of how the M matches up against the E-PL1s in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon EOS M & Olympus PEN E-PL1s. The full galleries are available at Canon M Gallery & Olympus E-PL1s Gallery.

If you're intending to travel with your camera often, you'll have to factor its weight and measurements. The Canon M offers physical measurements of 109mm x 66mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") along with a weight of 298 grams (0.66 lbs) while the Olympus E-PL1s has proportions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs).

See the Canon M versus Olympus E-PL1s in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select at that time. Below is a front view size comparison of the M and the E-PL1s.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the M and E-PL1s is 89 and 86 respectively.

Quite often, it is very difficult to see the contrast in sensor dimensions just by seeing specifications. The pic underneath might give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the M and E-PL1s.

To sum up, each of the cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The M with its larger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field less difficult and the Canon M will produce greater detail because of its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will help you crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more recent M is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.