Nikon 1 J2 vs Olympus E-PL1

Let's look a bit more closely at the Nikon 1 J2 and Olympus E-PL1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Nikon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the 1 J2 (10MP) and the E-PL1 (12MP) is pretty well matched but the 1 J2 (1") and E-PL1 (Four Thirds) offer different sensor size.

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The 1 J2 was manufactured 2 years after the E-PL1 which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a simple highlight of how the 1 J2 grades versus the E-PL1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon 1 J2 and Olympus PEN E-PL1. The entire galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 J2 Gallery and Olympus E-PL1 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry around your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and size. The Nikon 1 J2 has got exterior measurements of 106mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.2") and a weight of 238 grams (0.52 lbs) while the Olympus E-PL1 has specifications of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") having a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon 1 J2 and Olympus E-PL1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have attached during that time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the 1 J2 against the E-PL1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 1 J2 and E-PL1 is 91 and 86 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to visualize the difference between sensor sizes only by reading through technical specs. The image below should give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the 1 J2 and E-PL1.

As you can tell, both the cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The 1 J2 due to its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field more challenging and the Olympus E-PL1 will give you greater detail due to its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures way more aggressively. The more modern 1 J2 provides a benefit in sensor technology.