Nikon 1 J3 vs Olympus E-PM2

Lets look a little more closely at the Nikon 1 J3 vs Olympus E-PM2, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Nikon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the 1 J3 (14MP) and the E-PM2 (16MP) is fairly similar but the 1 J3 (1") and E-PM2 (Four Thirds) offer totally different sensor size.

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The 1 J3 was brought out 7 months after the E-PM2 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting right into a in depth comparison, here is a quick summary of how the 1 J3 scores against the E-PM2 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon 1 J3 and Olympus PEN E-PM2. The entire galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 J3 Gallery and Olympus E-PM2 Gallery.

When you are going to carry around your camera, you should factor its weight and size. The Nikon 1 J3 comes with physical dimensions of 101mm x 61mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 201 grams (0.44 lbs) and the Olympus E-PM2 has specifications of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

See the Nikon 1 J3 vs Olympus E-PM2 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilising at that time. Following is a front view over all size comparison of the 1 J3 vs the E-PM2.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the 1 J3 and E-PM2 is 92 and 89 respectively.

In many cases, it is very hard to visualise the difference between sensor sizes just by going over a spec sheet. The picture here will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 J3 and E-PM2.

As you can see, each of these cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The 1 J3 featuring a tinier sensor will make getting shallow DOF more difficult and the Olympus E-PM2 will deliver more detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop photos more aggressively. The more modern 1 J3 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.