Leica M8 vs Olympus E-PL8

On this page, we will be reviewing the Leica M8 versus Olympus E-PL8, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by rivals Leica and Olympus. There is a sizeable difference among the sensor resolutions of the M8 (10MP) and E-PL8 (16MP) and the M8 (APS-H) and E-PL8 (Four Thirds) provide different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The M8 was launched 10 years earlier than the E-PL8 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the M8 matches up against the E-PL8 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Leica M8 and Olympus PEN E-PL8. The complete galleries are provided at Leica M8 Gallery and Olympus E-PL8 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera frequently, you are going to need to take into account its weight and measurements. The Leica M8 features outer measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 591 grams (1.30 lbs) and the Olympus E-PL8 has proportions of 115mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 357 grams (0.79 lbs).

Take a look at the Leica M8 versus Olympus E-PL8 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are employing at that moment. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the M8 compared to the E-PL8.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the M8 and E-PL8 is 79 and 86 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing simply by viewing technical specs. The photograph here will give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the M8 and E-PL8.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The M8 featuring a bigger sensor is going to make achieving bokeh simpler and the Olympus E-PL8 will render more detail utilizing its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots more aggressively. The older M8 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.