Nikon 1 J4 vs Olympus E-PL1

Here, we will be looking at the Nikon 1 J4 versus Olympus E-PL1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by companies Nikon and Olympus. There exists a noticeable gap among the sensor resolutions of the 1 J4 (18MP) and E-PL1 (12MP) and the 1 J4 (1") and E-PL1 (Four Thirds) provide totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The 1 J4 was revealed 3 years after the E-PL1 which is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the 1 J4 matches up against the E-PL1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon 1 J4 & Olympus PEN E-PL1. The full galleries are provided at Nikon 1 J4 Gallery & Olympus E-PL1 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera, you are going to need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Nikon 1 J4 comes with external measurements of 100mm x 60mm x 29mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") along with a weight of 232 grams (0.51 lbs) while the Olympus E-PL1 has dimensions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs).

Check out the Nikon 1 J4 versus Olympus E-PL1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the 1 J4 compared to the E-PL1.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the 1 J4 and E-PL1 is 92 and 86 respectively.

Sometimes, it is hard to envision the gap in sensor sizes purely by looking through specs. The pic underneath may give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the 1 J4 and E-PL1.

As you can plainly see, each of the cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The 1 J4 having a smaller sensor will make getting shallower DOF tougher and the Nikon 1 J4 will provide you with more detail because of its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The younger 1 J4 will have a benefit in sensor tech.