Leica CL vs Olympus E-P1

Lets examine more closely at the Leica CL versus Olympus E-P1, one is a Advanced Mirrorless and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Leica and Olympus. There exists a crucial gap between the resolutions of the CL (24MP) and E-P1 (12MP) and the CL (APS-C) and E-P1 (Four Thirds) enjoy totally different sensor size.

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The CL was introduced 8 years after the E-P1 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting through a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the CL grades against the E-P1 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Leica CL and Olympus PEN E-P1. The whole galleries are viewable at Leica CL Gallery and Olympus E-P1 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera, you will need to consider its weight and measurements. The Leica CL provides exterior measurements of 131mm x 78mm x 45mm (5.2" x 3.1" x 1.8") having a weight of 403 grams (0.89 lbs) while the Olympus E-P1 has proportions of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") along with a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs).

Take a look at the Leica CL versus Olympus E-P1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select at the time. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the CL compared to the E-P1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the CL and E-P1 is 82 and 86 respectively.

More often than not, it's tough to visualise the difference between sensor sizes merely by checking technical specs. The image below may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the CL and E-P1.

As you can tell, both cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The CL having a larger sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field simpler and the Leica CL will give greater detail using its extra 12MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The fresher CL will have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.