Leica M8 vs Olympus E-PL3

Below, we will be contrasting the Leica M8 and Olympus E-PL3, one is a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by companies Leica and Olympus. The image resolution of the M8 (10MP) and the E-PL3 (12MP) is pretty well matched but the M8 (APS-H) and E-PL3 (Four Thirds) come with totally different sensor size.

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The M8 was introduced 5 years earlier than the E-PL3 which is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go through a in depth comparison, below is a concise summation of how the M8 grades against the E-PL3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Leica M8 and Olympus PEN E-PL3. The whole galleries are viewable at Leica M8 Gallery and Olympus E-PL3 Gallery.

In case you're intending to travel with your camera often, you are going to need to think about its weight and volume. The Leica M8 provides exterior measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") and a weight of 591 grams (1.30 lbs) and the Olympus E-PL3 has sizing of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") along with a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs).

Contrast the Leica M8 and Olympus E-PL3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at that time. Here is the front view measurement comparison of the M8 against the E-PL3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the M8 and E-PL3 is 79 and 88 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions simply by checking specifications. The picture underneath should offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the M8 and E-PL3.

To sum up, both the cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The M8 using its bigger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field easier and the Olympus E-PL3 will give you greater detail using its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots much more aggressively. The more aged M8 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.