Nikon 1 J4 vs Olympus E-PL9

On this page, we will be evaluating the Nikon 1 J4 vs Olympus E-PL9, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the 1 J4 (18MP) and the E-PL9 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the 1 J4 (1") and E-PL9 (Four Thirds) have totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The 1 J4 was revealed 4 years earlier than the E-PL9 which is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a concise introduction of how the 1 J4 scores vs the E-PL9 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Nikon 1 J4 & Olympus PEN E-PL9. The full galleries are provided at Nikon 1 J4 Gallery & Olympus E-PL9 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry around your camera often, you'll need to factor in its weight and volume. The Nikon 1 J4 provides external dimensions of 100mm x 60mm x 29mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 232 grams (0.51 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-PL9 has sizing of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") with a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs).

Examine the Nikon 1 J4 vs Olympus E-PL9 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have attached at that moment. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the 1 J4 vs the E-PL9.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the 1 J4 and E-PL9 is 92 and 85 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizes just by checking a spec sheet. The picture here might give you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 J4 and E-PL9.

Clearly, the 2 cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The 1 J4 having a tinier sensor will make getting shallow DOF tougher and the Nikon 1 J4 will resolve more detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop pictures more aggressively. The more aged 1 J4 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.