Leica M-E Typ 220 vs Olympus E-PL5

In this article, we are analyzing the Leica M-E Typ 220 versus Olympus E-PL5, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by brands Leica and Olympus. The image resolution of the M-E Typ 220 (18MP) and the E-PL5 (16MP) is fairly close but the M-E Typ 220 (Full frame) and E-PL5 (Four Thirds) come with totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The M-E Typ 220 was launched very close to the E-PL5 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving through a in depth comparison, below is a short introduction of how the M-E Typ 220 scores versus the E-PL5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica M-E Typ 220 and Olympus PEN E-PL5. The complete galleries are available at Leica M-E Typ 220 Gallery and Olympus E-PL5 Gallery.

If you are aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you will want to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Leica M-E Typ 220 comes with outside dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") along with a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-PL5 has dimensions of 111mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.5") along with a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs).

Take a look at the Leica M-E Typ 220 versus Olympus E-PL5 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you use at that time. Here is the front view overall size comparison of the M-E Typ 220 and the E-PL5.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the M-E Typ 220 and E-PL5 is 79 and 88 respectively.

Sometimes, its hard to envision the gap in sensor measurements only by researching specs. The graphic below may offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the M-E Typ 220 and E-PL5.

All in all, the two cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The M-E Typ 220 featuring a larger sensor will make getting shallow depth of field simpler and the Leica M-E Typ 220 will provide you with extra detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images far more aggressively.