Nikon 1 J4 vs Olympus E-PM1

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Nikon 1 J4 versus Olympus E-PM1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Nikon and Olympus. There exists a crucial gap between the resolutions of the 1 J4 (18MP) and E-PM1 (12MP) and the 1 J4 (1") and E-PM1 (Four Thirds) come with different sensor sizing.

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The 1 J4 was introduced 2 years after the E-PM1 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the 1 J4 grades vs the E-PM1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Nikon 1 J4 and Olympus PEN E-PM1. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 J4 Gallery and Olympus E-PM1 Gallery.

If you are aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you're going to have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Nikon 1 J4 features physical dimensions of 100mm x 60mm x 29mm (3.9" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 232 grams (0.51 lbs) and the Olympus E-PM1 has proportions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Look at the Nikon 1 J4 versus Olympus E-PM1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use during that time. Following is the front view scale comparison of the 1 J4 compared to the E-PM1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the 1 J4 and E-PM1 is 92 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, it is very hard to imagine the difference between sensor sizes purely by looking at a spec sheet. The pic here will help offer you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the 1 J4 and E-PM1.

As you can see, both of these cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The 1 J4 having a tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallower DOF tougher and the Nikon 1 J4 will give you more detail using its extra 6 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures far more aggressively. The younger 1 J4 provides an advantage in sensor innovation.