Nikon 1 AW1 vs Olympus E-PL5

The following is a complete assessment of the Nikon 1 AW1 versus Olympus E-PL5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Nikon and Olympus. The image resolution of the 1 AW1 (14MP) and the E-PL5 (16MP) is relatively similar but the 1 AW1 (1") and E-PL5 (Four Thirds) have different sensor sizes.

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The 1 AW1 was launched 13 months after the E-PL5 which makes them a generation away from each other. The two cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving right into a in-depth comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the 1 AW1 scores vs the E-PL5 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon 1 AW1 and Olympus PEN E-PL5. The complete galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 AW1 Gallery and Olympus E-PL5 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to travel with your camera frequently, you are going to need to take into account its weight and size. The Nikon 1 AW1 has got 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) whilst the Olympus E-PL5 has specifications of 111mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.5") with a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon 1 AW1 versus Olympus E-PL5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Following is a front view sizing comparison of the 1 AW1 and the E-PL5.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the 1 AW1 and E-PL5 is 86 and 88 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to visualize the contrast between sensor dimensions merely by reviewing a spec sheet. The pic underneath will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 AW1 and E-PL5.

As you can see, both the cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The 1 AW1 because of its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF more difficult and the Olympus E-PL5 will offer you greater detail utilizing its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The younger 1 AW1 should have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.