Canon M3 vs Olympus E-P2

Following is a extended assessment of the Canon M3 and Olympus E-P2, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by companies Canon and Olympus. There is a noticeable difference between the image resolutions of the M3 (24MP) and E-P2 (12MP) and the M3 (APS-C) and E-P2 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor measurements.

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The M3 was introduced 4 years after the E-P2 which is quite a sizable difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight into a thorough comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the M3 scores versus the E-P2 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Canon EOS M3 & Olympus PEN E-P2. The whole galleries are provided at Canon M3 Gallery & Olympus E-P2 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry around your camera, you will have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Canon M3 has outside measurements of 111mm x 68mm x 44mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.7") with a weight of 366 grams (0.81 lbs) and the Olympus E-P2 has measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") with a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs).

Examine the Canon M3 and Olympus E-P2 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are using at the time. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the M3 compared to the E-P2.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the M3 and E-P2 is 85 and 86 respectively.

Usually, it can be tough to envision the difference between sensor sizes merely by reading a spec sheet. The image underneath should give you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the M3 and E-P2.

As you can see, the two cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The M3 using its bigger sensor will make getting bokeh easier and the Canon M3 will deliver more detail using its extra 12MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures somewhat more aggressively. The fresher M3 will have an advantage in sensor technology.