Nikon 1 J3 vs Olympus E-PM1

Below is a complete analysis of the Nikon 1 J3 and Olympus E-PM1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Nikon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the 1 J3 (14MP) and the E-PM1 (12MP) is fairly similar but the 1 J3 (1") and E-PM1 (Four Thirds) use different sensor measurements.

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The 1 J3 was revealed 2 years later than the E-PM1 and that is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the 1 J3 scores vs the E-PM1 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon 1 J3 and Olympus PEN E-PM1. The full galleries are provided at Nikon 1 J3 Gallery and Olympus E-PM1 Gallery.

For those who are intending to lug around your camera frequently, you will need to think about its weight and measurements. The Nikon 1 J3 has got external measurements of 101mm x 61mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 201 grams (0.44 lbs) while the Olympus E-PM1 has proportions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Examine the Nikon 1 J3 and Olympus E-PM1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using during that time. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the 1 J3 compared to the E-PM1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the 1 J3 and E-PM1 is 92 and 89 respectively.

Quite often, it is tough to picture the gap between sensor measurements only by reviewing a spec sheet. The photograph below might give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 J3 and E-PM1.

As you can see, both the cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The 1 J3 using its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF harder and the Nikon 1 J3 will offer you extra detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The younger 1 J3 should have a benefit in sensor innovation.