Nikon 1 S2 vs Olympus E-PL1s

The following is a extended assessment of the Nikon 1 S2 vs Olympus E-PL1s, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by competitors Nikon and Olympus. The image resolution of the 1 S2 (14.2MP) and the E-PL1s (12MP) is very comparable but the 1 S2 (1") and E-PL1s (Four Thirds) posses totally different sensor measurements.

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The 1 S2 was released 3 years after the E-PL1s which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. The two cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving into a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief summary of how the 1 S2 matches up versus the E-PL1s in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon 1 S2 & Olympus PEN E-PL1s. The complete galleries are viewable at Nikon 1 S2 Gallery & Olympus E-PL1s Gallery.

For those who are looking to travel with your camera frequently, you should take into account its weight and dimensions. The Nikon 1 S2 offers physical dimensions of 101mm x 61mm x 29mm (4.0" x 2.4" x 1.1") with a weight of 190 grams (0.42 lbs) while the Olympus E-PL1s has dimensions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") along with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs).

Check the Nikon 1 S2 vs Olympus E-PL1s in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you have during that time. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the 1 S2 and the E-PL1s.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the 1 S2 and E-PL1s is 93 and 86 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is hard to see the gap in sensor dimensions purely by seeing technical specs. The image here should give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the 1 S2 and E-PL1s.

As you have seen, the two cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The 1 S2 due to its smaller sensor will make getting shallower DOF trickier and the Nikon 1 S2 will provide greater detail as a result of its extra 2.2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The fresher 1 S2 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.