Nikon 1 S1 vs Olympus PEN E-PM2: Which Entry-Level Mirrorless Camera Suits Your Photography Style?

In an era saturated with mirrorless cameras aimed at the enthusiast and entry-level segments, the Nikon 1 S1 and Olympus PEN E-PM2 occupy compelling niches. Both launched in 2013 and positioned as affordable rangefinder-style mirrorless options, these models nonetheless show marked differences in sensor technology, ergonomics, and feature sets - differences that can largely shape your photographic experience and the quality of your results.

Having spent hours testing and comparing these models side-by-side in various shooting contexts - from portraits and landscapes to wildlife and video - I’ll take you through a comprehensive comparison. We’ll dissect their technical specs, real-world performance, and value, ultimately helping you decide which is the better fit for your needs.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

When you pick up the Nikon 1 S1 and Olympus PEN E-PM2, the contrast in their physical dimensions and weight becomes immediately noticeable. The Nikon 1 S1 comes in at a mere 197 grams and compact 102x61x30 mm footprint - designed for maximum portability. The Olympus E-PM2, while still relatively small for a mirrorless, feels a bit more substantial at 269 grams and 110x64x34 mm.

The Nikon sacrifices nothing to minimize size, but this is a double-edged sword. The smaller grip and lightweight body are fantastic for travel or street shooters who prize discretion and unnoticeable carry weight. However, after a long shooting session, the E-PM2’s more substantial and slightly bulkier frame offers more secure handling, especially with heavier lenses.

From my experience, the ergonomics on the Olympus are more refined, with a thoughtfully placed shutter and function buttons that accommodate quick adjustments mid-shoot. The Nikon, by contrast, pares down controls significantly, which may thwart photographers who rely on tactile dials and buttons for muscle memory. Also, its rangefinder-style layout is minimalist, which some users love for simplicity, but others find limiting.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

The crux of deciding between two cameras often boils down to sensor and image processing prowess. Here, the E-PM2 enjoys a clear edge.

The Nikon 1 S1 employs a 1-inch 10MP CMOS sensor measuring 13.2x8.8mm. This smaller-than-Micro Four Thirds sensor area (116 mm²) leads to a focal length multiplier of 2.7x, impacting depth-of-field control and low-light capability. Nikon pairs this sensor with a native ISO range of 100–12,800 and an anti-aliasing filter, balancing resolution and moiré suppression.

The Olympus PEN E-PM2 boasts a larger Four Thirds 16MP CMOS sensor sized at 17.3x13mm, about 225mm² of sensor surface. This sensor produces images at 4608x3456 resolution, with a native ISO range up to 25,600 - broadening exposure latitude and enabling cleaner performance in challenging lighting conditions.

This sensor distinction is pivotal and reflects in independent DXO Mark scores: the Nikon 1 S1 garners a modest 56 overall, while the Olympus achieves a robust 72. Color depth (22.7 vs 21.4 bits), dynamic range (12.2 vs 11.1 EV), and low-light ISO performance (932 vs 397) all swing in Olympus's favor.

In practical terms, during my landscape shoots, the E-PM2’s sensor captured a wider tonal range in shadow and highlight details - critical for post-processing freedom. Night photography also benefits from its clean high-ISO output, where the Nikon produced noticeably more noise at ISO 1600 and beyond.

Autofocus Systems: Precision, Speed, and Tracking

Autofocus performance makes or breaks many photography scenarios, especially fast-action genres like wildlife or sports.

Nikon’s 1 S1 uses a hybrid autofocus system combining contrast-detection with phase-detection and reports 135 focus points. Autofocus speed is touted as fast, particularly with a maximum mechanical shutter speed of 1/4000s and an electronic shutter option up to 1/16,000s, ideal for freezing motion.

Olympus E-PM2 relies on a contrast-detection-only system with 35 focus points but ingeniously leverages sensor-based image stabilization to aid focus acquisition. It also supports face detection and live view AF, which the Nikon 1 S1 lacks.

In comparative testing, on static subjects (e.g., portraits or studio still lifes) both cameras achieved reliable locking. However, in tracking moving subjects, the Nikon’s higher burst rate - 15 fps continuous shooting - helped capture action snaps better. Still, its AF tracking accuracy sometimes faltered under complex or erratic movement, likely due to its hybrid AF design not optimized for the entry-level implementation.

Olympus, with an 8 fps burst rate, runs slower but offers greater autofocus consistency in challenging light and better face detection, which is invaluable for portraiture. The E-PM2’s in-body stabilization also contributes to steadier framing and supports AF precision by reducing shake-induced blur.

Handling the Frame: Viewfinder and Screen Experience

Neither camera sports a built-in electronic viewfinder by default, but Olympus offers an optional VF-2 EVF attachment, whereas Nikon 1 S1 does not. For photographers dependent on traditional eye-level composition, this is a significant consideration.

Both cameras have fixed 3-inch LCDs with identical 460k-dot resolutions. However, the Olympus’s screen is touch-sensitive, providing more intuitive menu navigation and focus point selection - a feature that notably improves the user experience during handheld shooting, especially in street or macro photography where quick framing changes are common.

The Nikon’s screen is non-touch TFT LCD, competent but less versatile. Its fixed position and screen tech suffice for routine use but limit flexible angle shooting or touch operations.

Personally, I appreciate the Olympus’s touch capabilities; it aligns with contemporary shooting workflows that rely on swift tactile commands. The lack of a built-in EVF on either camera remains a trade-off for compactness but restricts usability in extremely bright outdoor conditions where LCD screens can be challenging to view.

Photography Genres: Which Camera Excels Where?

Digging into genre-specific performance surfaces nuanced strengths and weaknesses:

Portrait Photography

• Nikon 1 S1: Skin tones are generally pleasant but slightly less nuanced due to lower color depth and resolution. Bokeh quality is moderate; the 1-inch sensor and smaller sensors make achieving shallow depth of field tougher. The lack of face or eye detection AF is a limitation, often requiring manual focus or selective AF points.

• Olympus E-PM2: Better color gradation and detail, combined with face detection autofocus, make it a more attractive choice for portrait enthusiasts. Thanks to the more extensive lens ecosystem (micro four thirds), achieving creamy bokeh is easier when paired with fast primes.

Landscape Photography

• Nikon 1 S1: Good dynamic range for its sensor size but limited compared to Olympus. Limited weather sealing curtails use in harsher environments. The 10MP resolution suffices for casual web display but falls short for large prints or detailed cropping.

• Olympus E-PM2: 16MP resolution and superior dynamic range provide great latitude when editing RAW files. While also not weather-sealed, Olympus’ sensor can capture finer textures and tonal gradations essential in expansive landscapes.

Wildlife Photography

• Nikon 1 S1: The fastest continuous shooting (15 fps) and a 2.7x crop factor can be advantageous for telephoto reach. However, autofocus tracking precision limitations and smaller lens selection limit professional-level wildlife capture.

• Olympus E-PM2: Slower burst but excellent stabilization and reasonable autofocus tracking make it better for less frantic wildlife scenes. The Micro Four Thirds mount supports various telephoto lenses, giving flexibility.

Sports Photography

• Nikon 1 S1: This is where its speedy burst capabilities shine. The fast shutter and electronic shutter speeds complement action freezes. Nonetheless, autofocusing fast-moving subjects with unrefined tracking is a challenge.

• Olympus E-PM2: Sport shooting is possible but lagging frame rate and slower autofocus make prolonged action sequences difficult.

Street Photography

• Nikon 1 S1: The compactness and silent shutter modes are highly conducive for unobtrusive street shooting. Low weight and pocketability make it a top contender here.

• Olympus E-PM2: Bulkier but still compact, the Olympus benefits from touch focus and face detection for candid portraits. Its quieter operation and in-body stabilization aid street shooting after dark.

Macro Photography

Neither camera has specific macro-focused features, but the in-body image stabilization on Olympus greatly assists handheld close-up shooting, as it reduces camera shake - a common hurdle in macro photography.

Night / Astro Photography

The Olympus E-PM2 excels due to cleaner high ISO, better dynamic range, and longer battery life. The Nikon 1 S1 struggles with noise control at elevated sensitivities, limiting practical nighttime use.

Video Capabilities

Both shoot Full HD 1080p video but Nikon supports 60fps in 1080p, while Olympus only offers 30fps max. Neither includes microphone or headphone ports, reducing audio control for serious videographers.

The Nikon’s electronic shutter enables silent shooting during video, but the Olympus stabilizes handheld footage better with sensor-based IS, an important advantage.

Travel Photography

Size and weight tip scales toward Nikon 1 S1 for travelers prioritizing ultra-portability. Battery life is lower (220 shots) versus Olympus’s 360 shots, suggesting more packing for Nikon.

Lens availability is tighter for Nikon’s proprietary Nikon 1 mount (13 lenses), whereas Olympus’s Micro Four Thirds mount offers 107 lenses from multiple manufacturers - a decisive factor for versatile travel shooting.

Professional Work

Neither camera targets professional use directly. However, Olympus’s broader raw file format support, improved sensor, and enhanced stabilization make it more compatible with workflow demands, particularly for semi-pros with budget constraints.

Build Quality and Environmental Resilience

Neither camera offers weather sealing, waterproofing, or shock resistance. Given their entry-level design, this isn’t surprising but is worth noting for outdoor photographers.

The Olympus PEN E-PM2 feels sturdier and more durable in hand, with a refined finish compared to the more plasticky feel of the Nikon 1 S1.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

This is a significant deciding factor:

• Nikon 1 S1: 13 proprietary lenses available within the Nikon 1 system - mainly compact primes and zooms optimized for the 1-inch sensor crop. Lens choice is more limited and manufacturers have since largely abandoned the Nikon 1 system.

• Olympus E-PM2: Access to the expansive Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem comprising over 100 lenses - ranging from ultra-wide fisheyes to super-telephoto zooms from Olympus, Panasonic, Sigma, and others. This versatility caters to virtually any genre or style.

The Olympus’s lens ecosystem is a clear winner for users intending to grow and experiment.

Battery Life and Storage

• Nikon’s EN-EL20 battery delivers roughly 220 shots per charge.
• Olympus’s BLS-5 battery extends to around 360 shots.

From my personal tests, the Olympus’s battery life is noticeably better in everyday shooting conditions, especially when relying on image stabilization. Both use SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with a single storage slot - standard fare.

Connectivity and Extras

Both cameras lack Bluetooth or NFC, but Nikon has optional wireless adapters, a minimal advantage for mobile sharing.

Ports for HDMI and USB 2.0 exist on both but no microphone or headphone jacks. The Olympus supports Eye-Fi cards for wireless transfer, which can be a simple workaround.

Pricing and Value Assessment

At launch, the Nikon 1 S1 retailed near $230, positioning it as an ultra-affordable entry point. The Olympus PEN E-PM2 arrived nearly twice that price at around $448.

Now, in the used or discounted market, prices fluctuate, but the Olympus generally commands higher resale value, reflecting its more durable design and advanced capabilities.

Considering price-to-performance, Olympus offers roughly 30% higher DxOMark sensor scores and improved usability, justifying its cost if budget permits. Nikon’s 1 S1 appeals more as a compact, fast-shooting novelty for hobbyists focused on portability.

Nikon 1 S1 front Nikon 1 S1 screen back Olympus E PM2 front Olympus E PM2 screen back

Overall Performance Ratings and Final Recommendations

Our aggregated testing results visualize the performance spread between these two:

And breaking down performance by photographic discipline:

• The Olympus PEN E-PM2 consistently scores higher in image quality, dynamic range, low light capability, and handling.
• The Nikon 1 S1 excels in burst shooting and compact size - benefiting sports/action and street photographers prioritizing stealth.

Who Should Choose the Nikon 1 S1?

• Photographers prioritizing pocketability and ultra-lightweight gear.
• Those experimenting with entry-level mirrorless for casual, everyday shooting.
• Fans of silent electronic shutter modes for discrete photography.
• Budget-conscious buyers willing to accept compromises in image quality and lens choice.

Who Should Invest in the Olympus PEN E-PM2?

• Enthusiasts seeking higher image quality and a larger native lens selection.
• Portrait and landscape photographers valuing color depth and dynamic range.
• Travelers needing better battery endurance and stabilization.
• Users with a desire to grow into more advanced Micro Four Thirds lenses.
• Videographers requiring steadier handheld footage and more versatile touchscreen controls.

Final Thoughts

The Nikon 1 S1 and Olympus PEN E-PM2 reflect two divergent philosophies in entry-level mirrorless design from 2013. Nikon’s approach champions speed and super-compactness with a smaller sensor, while Olympus prioritizes image quality and a richer system lens environment.

From my extensive side-by-side testing, the Olympus E-PM2 wins in nearly all image quality and usability metrics, making it the wiser choice for photography enthusiasts who plan to evolve creatively. The Nikon 1 S1 remains a fun and agile option for novices and street photographers where weight and size trump all else.

Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you want a lightweight “grab-and-go” camera with speedy shooting or a more flexible tool with superior image fidelity. Both cameras serve specific niches well, and understanding these strengths ensures your purchase truly supports your photographic journey.

I hope this deep dive aids your decision - if you have a particular genre or use case in mind, feel free to ask for advice tailored to your shooting style!