Nikon 1 J3 vs Olympus E-PL8

The following is a extended analysis of the Nikon 1 J3 vs Olympus E-PL8, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Nikon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the 1 J3 (14MP) and the E-PL8 (16MP) is very similar but the 1 J3 (1") and E-PL8 (Four Thirds) feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The 1 J3 was brought out 3 years before the E-PL8 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting through a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple view of how the 1 J3 grades against the E-PL8 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon 1 J3 and Olympus PEN E-PL8. The entire galleries are provided at Nikon 1 J3 Gallery and Olympus E-PL8 Gallery.

In case you're planning to travel with your camera, you are going to need to consider its weight and proportions. The Nikon 1 J3 provides external measurements of 101mm x 61mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 201 grams (0.44 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-PL8 has measurements of 115mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 1.5") with a weight of 357 grams (0.79 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon 1 J3 vs Olympus E-PL8 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are working with at the time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the 1 J3 vs the E-PL8.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the 1 J3 and E-PL8 is 92 and 86 respectively.

Sometimes, its hard to envision the contrast between sensor dimensions just by going over specifications. The image underneath may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 J3 and E-PL8.

To sum up, both of these cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The 1 J3 featuring a tinier sensor will make achieving bokeh harder and the Olympus E-PL8 will deliver more detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images somewhat more aggressively. The more aged 1 J3 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor technology.