Leica M8 vs Olympus E-PL1

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Leica M8 vs Olympus E-PL1, former is a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Leica and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the M8 (10MP) and the E-PL1 (12MP) is pretty well matched but the M8 (APS-H) and E-PL1 (Four Thirds) possess different sensor measurements.

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The M8 was revealed 3 years prior to the E-PL1 which is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting through a thorough comparison, below is a quick view of how the M8 scores against the E-PL1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M8 & Olympus PEN E-PL1. The full galleries are viewable at Leica M8 Gallery & Olympus E-PL1 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and size. The Leica M8 features exterior dimensions of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") having a weight of 591 grams (1.30 lbs) and the Olympus E-PL1 has specifications of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs).

Look at the Leica M8 vs Olympus E-PL1 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you select at that time. The following is the front view dimensions comparison of the M8 and the E-PL1.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the M8 and E-PL1 is 79 and 86 respectively.

Often, it is very tough to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes only by reading through a spec sheet. The image below should offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the M8 and E-PL1.

Clearly, both cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The M8 using its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Olympus E-PL1 will give you more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged M8 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.