Nikon 1 J3 vs Olympus E-PL9

On this page, we are analyzing the Nikon 1 J3 and Olympus E-PL9, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Nikon and Olympus. The resolution of the 1 J3 (14MP) and the E-PL9 (16MP) is very similar but the 1 J3 (1") and E-PL9 (Four Thirds) posses totally different sensor size.

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The 1 J3 was introduced 5 years earlier than the E-PL9 and that is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight to a in depth comparison, here is a short summary of how the 1 J3 matches up versus the E-PL9 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon 1 J3 & Olympus PEN E-PL9. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 J3 Gallery & Olympus E-PL9 Gallery.

When you are intending to lug around your camera, you will need to consider its weight and volume. The Nikon 1 J3 has exterior measurements of 101mm x 61mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 201 grams (0.44 lbs) and the Olympus E-PL9 has sizing of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") having a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs).

Look at the Nikon 1 J3 and Olympus E-PL9 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have at that moment. The following is a front view overall size comparison of the 1 J3 vs the E-PL9.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the 1 J3 and E-PL9 is 92 and 85 respectively.

Often, it is very hard to visualise the gap between sensor measurements just by reviewing a spec sheet. The photograph below will give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 J3 and E-PL9.

Clearly, the two cameras have different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The 1 J3 using its tinier sensor will make getting shallower DOF more challenging and the Olympus E-PL9 will offer extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop photos a bit more aggressively. The older 1 J3 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.