Nikon 1 J3 vs Olympus E-PL1s

In this article, we will be looking at the Nikon 1 J3 versus Olympus E-PL1s, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by competitors Nikon and Olympus. The resolution of the 1 J3 (14MP) and the E-PL1s (12MP) is relatively close but the 1 J3 (1") and E-PL1s (Four Thirds) use totally different sensor sizes.

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The 1 J3 was introduced 3 years after the E-PL1s which is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving straight into a complete comparison, below is a concise summary of how the 1 J3 scores versus the E-PL1s with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon 1 J3 & Olympus PEN E-PL1s. The whole galleries are available at Nikon 1 J3 Gallery & Olympus E-PL1s Gallery.

If you are planning to travel with your camera, you'll need to think about its weight and volume. The Nikon 1 J3 enjoys outside dimensions of 101mm x 61mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.1") and a weight of 201 grams (0.44 lbs) while the Olympus E-PL1s has sizing of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") and a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs).

Look at the Nikon 1 J3 versus Olympus E-PL1s in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the 1 J3 compared to the E-PL1s.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the 1 J3 and E-PL1s is 92 and 86 respectively.

Usually, it's tough to envision the difference in sensor dimensions purely by looking through technical specs. The picture below will give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 J3 and E-PL1s.

As you have seen, both of the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The 1 J3 with its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field harder and the Nikon 1 J3 will provide you with greater detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop photographs far more aggressively. The more recent 1 J3 will have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.