Nikon 1 AW1 vs Olympus E-P2

On this page, we are contrasting the Nikon 1 AW1 and Olympus E-P2, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by competitors Nikon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the 1 AW1 (14MP) and the E-P2 (12MP) is fairly comparable but the 1 AW1 (1") and E-P2 (Four Thirds) have different sensor sizing.

Body cameras now worn by bakery staff to deter stealing

The 1 AW1 was launched 3 years after the E-P2 which is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting straight to a complete comparison, here is a simple highlight of how the 1 AW1 scores against the E-P2 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon 1 AW1 and Olympus PEN E-P2. The complete galleries are available at Nikon 1 AW1 Gallery and Olympus E-P2 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to travel with your camera regularly, you have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Nikon 1 AW1 features outside measurements of 114mm x 72mm x 37mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.5") along with a weight of 356 grams (0.78 lbs) while the Olympus E-P2 has dimensions of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") with a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs).

Check the Nikon 1 AW1 and Olympus E-P2 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 use during that time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the 1 AW1 compared to the E-P2.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 1 AW1 and E-P2 is 86 and 86 respectively.

More often than not, it is tough to picture the contrast in sensor dimensions purely by going through specifications. The pic below might offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 AW1 and E-P2.

To sum up, each of the cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The 1 AW1 due to its smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF harder and the Nikon 1 AW1 will produce extra detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos more aggressively. The younger 1 AW1 should have an edge in sensor technology.