Nikon 1 J2 vs Olympus E-PM1

In this article, we will be reviewing the Nikon 1 J2 and Olympus E-PM1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by competitors Nikon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the 1 J2 (10MP) and the E-PM1 (12MP) is pretty close but the 1 J2 (1") and E-PM1 (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor sizing.

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The 1 J2 was released 9 months after the E-PM1 so they are of a similar age. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick summary of how the 1 J2 matches up vs the E-PM1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon 1 J2 & Olympus PEN E-PM1. The complete galleries are provided at Nikon 1 J2 Gallery & Olympus E-PM1 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry around your camera regularly, you are going to need to take into account its weight and size. The Nikon 1 J2 enjoys outside dimensions of 106mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.2" x 2.4" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 238 grams (0.52 lbs) while the Olympus E-PM1 has specifications of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Check out the Nikon 1 J2 and Olympus E-PM1 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are using during that time. Below is the front view proportions comparison of the 1 J2 compared to the E-PM1.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the 1 J2 and E-PM1 is 91 and 89 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to see the gap in sensor sizes purely by researching specifications. The pic here will help offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the 1 J2 and E-PM1.

To sum up, both cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The 1 J2 because of its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower DOF more difficult and the Olympus E-PM1 will result in more detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots far more aggressively. The fresher 1 J2 will have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.