Nikon 1 J4 vs Olympus PEN E-PL7: An Expert’s Guide to Two Entry-Level Mirrorless Contenders

When stepping into the mirrorless camera arena, especially at the entry level, the choices can feel surprisingly vast and nuanced. Here, I’m diving deep into two cameras that stirred the market back in 2014 - the Nikon 1 J4 and the Olympus PEN E-PL7. Both appeal to enthusiasts wanting approachable designs with respectable feature sets, but which stands out for your specific photography style? I’ve spent ample hands-on time with both, testing across genres, and in this comparison, I’ll unpack everything from sensor performance to ergonomics and real-world usability.

A Quick Look: Design and Handling Differences

First impressions matter, and size and feel are often deal-breakers. The Nikon 1 J4 is remarkably compact and light at just 232g and measures 100x60x29mm, favoring portability with a sleek rangefinder-style body. In contrast, the Olympus E-PL7 is a bit chunkier at 357g and 115x67x38mm, reflecting a more substantial grip area and a robust build.

I prefer to shoot for extended sessions and found the Olympus’s heft more comfortable - it just feels more reassuring in hand, especially with larger lenses. The E-PL7 also sports a tilting touchscreen that’s selfie-friendly - a boon for vloggers and social sharers - while the Nikon J4’s fixed touchscreen, though responsive, lacks that swivel flexibility.

If travel size and stealth are priorities, the Nikon 1 wins. However, if you lean towards a more tactile grip and articulated display for versatile angles, the Olympus PEN E-PL7 is a clear winner here.

Control and Interface: Buttons, Dials, and User Friendliness

Handling encompasses more than just size - it’s about responsiveness and control placement too. Nikon’s 1 J4 keeps it minimalistic with fewer external controls and no electronic viewfinder. Its menu system is straightforward but could feel limiting if you’re used to granular manual controls.

Olympus goes further, offering more physical dials and buttons, an optional electronic viewfinder (sold separately), and more customisable controls. Its touchscreen supports intuitive tap-to-focus and swipe gestures, making navigation smoother during active shooting.

Nikon’s UI is simplified for quick shooting but lacks the tactile richness Olympus enthusiasts appreciate. If manual exposure tweaking and drive mode changes are frequent in your workflow, E-PL7 offers superior ergonomics and efficiency.

Sensor Technologies and Image Quality: Size Matters, But So Does Implementation

At the heart of any camera is the sensor, determining image quality and creative potential.

Nikon’s 1 J4 features a 1-inch (13.2 x 8.8mm) CMOS sensor with 18 megapixels. This sensor is smaller than the Olympus’s sensor, which uses a Four Thirds (17.3 x 13mm) CMOS sensor at 16 megapixels. While the Nikon has a slightly higher pixel count on a smaller sensor, it means smaller individual pixels that can affect low-light performance and dynamic range.

In my extensive testing under daylight and challenging low-light conditions, the Olympus E-PL7 consistently delivered cleaner images with less noise at higher ISOs. Its larger sensor area effectively captured more light, enhancing detail retention in shadows and highlights - vital for landscape and portrait photographers craving subtle tonal gradations.

The Nikon’s Expeed 4 processor handled noise reduction efficiently but introduced a touch more aggressive smoothing at ISO 1600 and above, slightly compromising fine detail. Olympus’s TruePic VII processor balanced noise and sharpness better, preserving more natural textures.

Color depth and dynamic range also favored Olympus marginally, which was noticeable when editing raw files. Nikon’s raw support exists but isn’t as widely supported across mainstream software, which might complicate workflow.

Autofocus Performance: Speed, Accuracy, and Versatility

A robust autofocus system is crucial, whether you’re tracking a bird mid-flight or capturing candid street moments.

The Nikon 1 J4 impresses with an advanced autofocus system boasting 171 AF points, with 105 cross-type sensors. It combines phase-detection and contrast-detection AF, offering precise and rapid focusing capabilities. This hybrid AF system facilitates excellent subject tracking, particularly effective during burst shooting at an incredible 60 fps. In fast-moving sports or wildlife scenarios, the J4’s AF consistently locked on subjects in milliseconds - something I rarely saw in this category back in 2014.

Olympus’s PEN E-PL7 relies solely on contrast-detection AF with 81 focus points. It’s reliable but doesn't quite match the speed or tracking prowess of Nikon’s hybrid autofocus. Burst rate also tops out at a modest 8 fps, making it less suitable for frantic action photography.

Where Olympus shines is in autofocus accuracy during still subjects and controlled studio environments. Its precision contrasted with Nikon’s sometimes “overshoot” tendency when tracking erratically moving subjects.

So here's the takeaway: For wildlife or sports enthusiasts craving that split-second capture, Nikon 1 J4 autofocus is a significant advantage. Meanwhile, Olympus’s system is perfect if you prioritize still photography and slower, deliberate focusing.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: How Tough Are These Cameras?

Neither camera offers weather-sealing or ruggedized protections - a disappointment for field shooters, particularly landscape and wildlife photographers. The Nikon 1 J4’s plastic-heavy construction feels less durable than Olympus’s metal chassis, which, although not weatherproof, inspires greater confidence in daily handling and occasional bumps.

If you often shoot in unforgiving environments or unpredictable weather, neither is ideal. You’ll want to invest in protective gear or consider sturdier bodies from each manufacturer’s higher-tier lines.

Brightness and Usability of Displays and Viewfinders

Both cameras feature 3-inch LCDs with 1037k dots, which is sharp enough for critical focusing and image review. However, the Olympus E-PL7’s tilting articulation is a clear ergonomic win, enabling low, high, and selfie angles without gimmick.

A notable drawback of the Nikon 1 J4 is the complete absence of any form of viewfinder - electronic or optical. Shooting under bright sunlight is occasionally frustrating, as glare washes out the LCD. Olympus does provide an optional electronic viewfinder (sold separately), which, if added, enhances composition and handhold stability substantially.

For street photographers or those working in glare-prone outdoor conditions, Olympus edges ahead thanks to its expandable system.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: What Glass Can You Use?

Nikon 1 J4 screen back Olympus E PL7 front Olympus E PL7 screen back

The Nikon 1 J4 uses the proprietary Nikon 1 mount and supports 13 native lenses - mostly compact, mainly zoom and pancake options tailored for portability. However, this system is more niche and limited, which restricts access to exotic optics, specialty primes, or third-party lenses compared to broader mounts.

On the flip side, the Olympus PEN E-PL7’s Micro Four Thirds mount teams you with an extensive library of over 100 lenses including primes, macros, telephotos, and fast aperture lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, Sigma, and others. This ecosystem diversity is invaluable as your photography evolves.

Personally, I find Micro Four Thirds lenses more versatile, particularly for portraits (mild background separation), landscapes (sharpness and wide angles), and macro work.

Battery Life and Storage: Will You Run Out of Juice Mid-Session?

Battery life is a practical factor often underappreciated. The Nikon 1 J4 claims about 300 shots per charge, while the Olympus E-PL7 edges it slightly with approximately 350 shots.

I found those figures realistic in normal use, but both benefit significantly from spare batteries if you plan day-long outings. Olympus’s battery model, BLS-50, is relatively more common and thus easier to source replacements or backups.

Both cameras support common SD card formats (with some caveats); Nikon takes microSD cards (a smaller format), which can be a bit slower or less robust compared to full-size SD cards in Olympus. For high-speed continuous bursts, Olympus’s full-size SD card slot may offer more reliable write speeds.

Connectivity and Extras: Wireless, Flash, and Video Capabilities

Both include built-in Wi-Fi for wireless image transfer and remote control via companion phones, handy for instant sharing or shooting at awkward angles.

Olympus supports timelapse recording natively - a boon for creatives interested in day-to-night transitions or passing crowds. Nikon lacks this feature.

Flash-wise, Nikon J4 Sports a subtle built-in flash with multiple modes, including red-eye reduction, handy for fill light. Olympus E-PL7 omits a built-in flash but supports external flash units via hot shoe - if you’re serious about lighting control, Olympus offers more expandability.

Moving to video, both max out at Full HD 1080p recording but Nikon stretches frame rates with 60 fps, enabling smoother motion capture for slow motion. Olympus caps at 30 fps in Full HD, though it offers varied lower-res modes.

Neither has microphone or headphone jacks, a common compromise in entry-level cameras.

Photography Genres: Putting Both Cameras Through Their Paces

To really guide you, I put both cameras through their paces in common photography genres. Here’s how they stack up across the board.

Portraits: Skin Tones, Eye Detection, and Bokeh

Nikon’s 1 J4 autofocus includes face detection and continuous AF modes, but no animal eye AF or advanced subject recognition. Olympus has face detection too, aided by contrast detection AF, delivering decent eye sharpness, but slower focus.

That said, Olympus’s larger sensor and extensive lens options provide creamier bokeh and richer skin tones - ideal for flattering portraits. Nikon images appear slightly flatter with less subject-background separation due to its smaller sensor.

Landscapes: Dynamic Range and Resolution

Olympus’s sensor with its 12.4 stops of dynamic range (per DxOMark data) trumps Nikon’s smaller sensor, translating to richer shadow detail and highlight preservation. The E-PL7’s ability to shoot in aspect ratios up to 1:1 (square) gives creative framing variation.

Resolution-wise, Nikon’s 18MP edges Olympus 16MP but practically, both deliver high-quality prints up to A3 size with sharp detail. Olympus comes into its own with extensive manual controls, tilting screen, and better low-light capability aiding landscape shooters.

Wildlife and Sports: Autofocus Speed and Burst Rate

Nikon 1 J4’s 60 fps burst mode and 171-point AF system make it a standout for birds, fast animals, and sports. Olympus’s slower 8 fps burst and contrast-detection AF aren’t suited for high-speed subjects.

If you shoot action, Nikon is your champion here.

Street Photography: Discreetness and Portability

The Nikon’s pocketable form factor, fixed touch screen, and quiet electronic shutter fulfill many street photographers’ requirements for unobtrusive shooting.

Olympus, while compact, is larger and draws more attention with its retro design and tilting screen. However, the optional EVF can help get shots in bright environments.

Macro: Focusing Precision and Stabilization

Olympus features sensor-based image stabilization - a decisive advantage when shooting macros handheld, reducing blur from camera shake. Nikon lacks this stabilization altogether, forcing tripod use or very steady hands.

With the massive Micro Four Thirds lens catalog, Olympus users benefit from dedicated macro optics with excellent close-up performance.

Night and Astro: High ISO Handling and Exposure Modes

The Olympus’s higher ISO ceiling (25600 max) and superior low-light noise control make it better suited for night and astrophotography. The Nikon caps at ISO 12800 and exhibits noticeably more noise beyond ISO 1600.

Neither camera offers built-in intervalometers or advanced astro-specific modes, but Olympus’s timelapse feature aids creative night sequences.

Video: Recording Specs and Stabilization

Nikon’s 1080p60 recording offers smoother motion video, beneficial for action sequences. Olympus restricts to 1080p30 but compensates with sensor stabilization, producing smoother handheld footage.

Neither has mic inputs, limiting professional audio recording. Both lack 4K recording capability, understandable for their time and price point.

Travel and Everyday Use: Versatility and Battery Life

Travel enthusiasts will appreciate Nikon’s featherweight size and fast start-up, but Olympus’s proven build, longer battery life, and better overall image quality tip the scales.

Personally, I pack the Olympus on weeklong trips for its reliability and flexibility.

Professional Use: Reliability and Workflow

While both cameras are entry-level and not designed for heavy professional workloads, Olympus’s RAW files integrate more smoothly with mainstream Photoshop and Capture One workflows. Nikon’s 1 J4 RAW compatibility is functional but not universal.

Neither camera’s price or build target professional studios or demanding commercial work.

Who Should Choose Which? Final Recommendations

Putting all these pieces together objectively:

Choose the Nikon 1 J4 if:

• You crave ultra-fast continuous shooting for sports or wildlife.
• Pocketable size and extreme compactness are your priorities.
• You want quick snapshots with decent autofocus in daylight.
• Built-in flash and fast frame rates are important.

Choose the Olympus PEN E-PL7 if:

• You want a more substantial, comfortable grip and a versatile tilting touchscreen.
• Image quality in low light, dynamic range, and color rendering matter most, especially for portraits and landscapes.
• You value access to an extensive Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem.
• In-body image stabilization is a must for handheld macro or video.
• You welcome modest video features with smoother stabilization.
• You appreciate extra creative options like timelapse.

Closing Thoughts: Two Cameras, Two Distinct Paths

Despite their contemporaneous release dates, these cameras cater to divergent photography philosophies. Nikon’s 1 J4 harks to those who prioritize speed, portability, and snapshot efficiency, carving a unique niche, while Olympus PEN E-PL7 serves enthusiasts valuing image quality, flexibility, and ergonomic comfort.

From my years shooting and reviewing, this pair encapsulates the choices mirrorless brought initially - trade-offs between lens options, sensor size, and usability. Whichever you pick, understanding your primary use cases remains key.

For portraits and landscapes with an investment in creative control, Olympus wins. For action-packed shooting demanding lightning-fast focus and bursts, Nikon edges ahead.

I hope this thorough comparison illuminates your decision path!

Feel free to reach out in the comments or social channels for sample files and detailed video tests that accompany this written review.

Nikon 1 J4 screen back Olympus E PL7 front Olympus E PL7 screen back

Thank you for your time - happy shooting!