Nikon S9900 vs Olympus E-PL5

Following is a comprehensive review of the Nikon S9900 versus Olympus E-PL5, former is a Small Sensor Superzoom while the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Nikon and Olympus. The sensor resolution of the S9900 (16MP) and the E-PL5 (16MP) is fairly well matched but the S9900 (1/2.3") and E-PL5 (Four Thirds) come with different sensor sizing.

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The S9900 was introduced 2 years after the E-PL5 which is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer different body type with the Nikon S9900 being a Compact camera and the Olympus E-PL5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go in to a in-depth comparison, below is a simple summation of how the S9900 matches up vs the E-PL5 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Coolpix S9900 & Olympus PEN E-PL5. The whole galleries are viewable at Nikon S9900 Gallery & Olympus E-PL5 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera often, you have to think about its weight and measurements. The Nikon S9900 provides exterior measurements of 112mm x 66mm x 40mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.6") along with a weight of 289 grams (0.64 lbs) while the Olympus E-PL5 has proportions of 111mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.5") and a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon S9900 versus Olympus E-PL5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you use at the time. Underneath is the front view proportions comparison of the S9900 versus the E-PL5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S9900 and E-PL5 is 88 and 88 respectively.

Normally, it is very hard to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes simply by reading through technical specs. The image below will provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the S9900 and E-PL5.

As you have seen, both cameras offer the same exact megapixel count but different sensor sizes. The S9900 comes with the tinier sensor which will make achieving shallower depth of field more difficult. The more recent S9900 provides an edge with regard to sensor tech.