Nikon 1 J1 vs Olympus E-PL2

Its time to examine more closely at the Nikon 1 J1 and Olympus E-PL2, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Olympus. The resolution of the 1 J1 (10MP) and the E-PL2 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the 1 J1 (1") and E-PL2 (Four Thirds) feature different sensor sizing.

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The 1 J1 was brought out 12 months later than the E-PL2 so they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting in to a full comparison, below is a concise summation of how the 1 J1 grades vs the E-PL2 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon 1 J1 & Olympus PEN E-PL2. The entire galleries are available at Nikon 1 J1 Gallery & Olympus E-PL2 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to lug around your camera regularly, you will want to factor in its weight and volume. The Nikon 1 J1 has got physical measurements of 106mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.2") with a weight of 234 grams (0.52 lbs) and the Olympus E-PL2 has sizing of 114mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 362 grams (0.80 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon 1 J1 and Olympus E-PL2 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose at that time. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the 1 J1 compared to the E-PL2.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the 1 J1 and E-PL2 is 91 and 85 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to picture the difference between sensor measurements only by looking at a spec sheet. The visual here might provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the 1 J1 and E-PL2.

Clearly, both cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The 1 J1 because of its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field harder and the Olympus E-PL2 will resolve more detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop photographs somewhat more aggressively. The more recent 1 J1 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.