Nikon 1 J1 vs Olympus E-PL1

Following is a in depth review of the Nikon 1 J1 vs Olympus E-PL1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by companies Nikon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the 1 J1 (10MP) and the E-PL1 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the 1 J1 (1") and E-PL1 (Four Thirds) have totally different sensor dimensions.

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The 1 J1 was revealed 21 months after the E-PL1 which makes them a generation away from one another. Both the cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going straight to a more detailed comparison, here is a simple view of how the 1 J1 matches up vs the E-PL1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon 1 J1 & Olympus PEN E-PL1. The full galleries are provided at Nikon 1 J1 Gallery & Olympus E-PL1 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry around your camera often, you will have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Nikon 1 J1 provides outer dimensions of 106mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.2") along with a weight of 234 grams (0.52 lbs) while the Olympus E-PL1 has measurements of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs).

Examine the Nikon 1 J1 vs Olympus E-PL1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen during that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the 1 J1 and the E-PL1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 1 J1 and E-PL1 is 91 and 86 respectively.

Normally, it can be difficult to envision the gap between sensor sizes simply by reading through a spec sheet. The picture here should give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the 1 J1 and E-PL1.

Clearly, both of these cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The 1 J1 having a tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF more difficult and the Olympus E-PL1 will give you extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The more modern 1 J1 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.