Nikon 1 AW1 vs Olympus E-PL8

On this page, we are comparing the Nikon 1 AW1 versus Olympus E-PL8, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the 1 AW1 (14MP) and the E-PL8 (16MP) is fairly comparable but the 1 AW1 (1") and E-PL8 (Four Thirds) provide different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The 1 AW1 was unveiled 4 years prior to the E-PL8 and that is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting right into a in-depth comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the 1 AW1 grades vs the E-PL8 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon 1 AW1 & Olympus PEN E-PL8. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 AW1 Gallery & Olympus E-PL8 Gallery.

If you are aiming to lug around your camera, you will need to take into account its weight and volume. The Nikon 1 AW1 has got outside dimensions of 114mm x 72mm x 37mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.5") with a weight of 356 grams (0.78 lbs) and the Olympus E-PL8 has sizing of 115mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 1.5") along with a weight of 357 grams (0.79 lbs).

Compare the Nikon 1 AW1 versus Olympus E-PL8 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the 1 AW1 compared to the E-PL8.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the 1 AW1 and E-PL8 is 86 and 86 respectively.

Generally, its hard to imagine the difference in sensor measurements simply by seeing specs. The photograph here may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the 1 AW1 and E-PL8.

All in all, each of these cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The 1 AW1 having a smaller sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF more challenging and the Olympus E-PL8 will produce greater detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos more aggressively. The older 1 AW1 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.