Leica M9 vs Olympus E-PL1

Below is a extended overview of the Leica M9 and Olympus E-PL1, one being a Pro Mirrorless and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Leica and Olympus. There is a crucial difference among the resolutions of the M9 (18MP) and E-PL1 (12MP) and the M9 (Full frame) and E-PL1 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor sizes.

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The M9 was released 8 months prior to the E-PL1 so they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving in to a complete comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the M9 matches up vs the E-PL1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Leica M9 and Olympus PEN E-PL1. The complete galleries are available at Leica M9 Gallery and Olympus E-PL1 Gallery.

If you're intending to lug around your camera frequently, you will need to factor in its weight and volume. The Leica M9 offers outside measurements of 139mm x 80mm x 37mm (5.5" x 3.1" x 1.5") having a weight of 585 grams (1.29 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-PL1 has sizing of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs).

Compare the Leica M9 and Olympus E-PL1 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are employing at that time. The following is the front view measurement comparison of the M9 against the E-PL1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the M9 and E-PL1 is 79 and 86 respectively.

Oftentimes, its hard to see the difference in sensor measurements merely by checking out specifications. The photograph underneath may provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the M9 and E-PL1.

Plainly, each of these cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The M9 because of its larger sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Leica M9 will provide extra detail as a result of its extra 6MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop pics far more aggressively. The older M9 will be behind when it comes to sensor technology.