Nikon 1 S1 vs Olympus E-PL2

Its time to examine more closely at the Nikon 1 S1 and Olympus E-PL2, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by companies Nikon and Olympus. The image resolution of the 1 S1 (10MP) and the E-PL2 (12MP) is very similar but the 1 S1 (1") and E-PL2 (Four Thirds) enjoy different sensor measurements.

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The 1 S1 was unveiled 2 years later than the E-PL2 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the 1 S1 matches up vs the E-PL2 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon 1 S1 and Olympus PEN E-PL2. The full galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 S1 Gallery and Olympus E-PL2 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry your camera often, you will need to take into account its weight and size. The Nikon 1 S1 offers physical dimensions of 102mm x 61mm x 30mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 197 grams (0.43 lbs) while the Olympus E-PL2 has specifications of 114mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") along with a weight of 362 grams (0.80 lbs).

Contrast the Nikon 1 S1 and Olympus E-PL2 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose during that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the 1 S1 versus the E-PL2.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the 1 S1 and E-PL2 is 92 and 85 respectively.

Often, it is very hard to imagine the difference between sensor sizing just by reading specs. The graphic underneath may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the 1 S1 and E-PL2.

As you can plainly see, both cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The 1 S1 using its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallow DOF more difficult and the Olympus E-PL2 will offer extra detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The more modern 1 S1 should have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.