Nikon Z30 vs Olympus E-PL1

Below, we are comparing the Nikon Z30 and Olympus E-PL1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by manufacturers Nikon and Olympus. There is a sizeable difference among the resolutions of the Z30 (21MP) and E-PL1 (12MP) and the Z30 (APS-C) and E-PL1 (Four Thirds) come with totally different sensor size.

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The Z30 was introduced 12 years later than the E-PL1 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Nikon Z30 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight into a full comparison, below is a brief overview of how the Z30 scores vs the E-PL1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Nikon Z30 and Olympus PEN E-PL1. The whole galleries are provided at Nikon Z30 Gallery and Olympus E-PL1 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera regularly, you're going to have to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Nikon Z30 has got physical dimensions of 128mm x 74mm x 60mm (5.0" x 2.9" x 2.4") along with a weight of 405 grams (0.89 lbs) while the Olympus E-PL1 has dimensions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs).

Take a look at the Nikon Z30 and Olympus E-PL1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are utilizing at that time. The following is the front view scale comparison of the Z30 and the E-PL1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the Z30 and E-PL1 is 79 and 86 respectively.

Usually, it is difficult to envision the contrast in sensor sizing purely by seeing technical specs. The photograph below may offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the Z30 and E-PL1.

As you can tell, both cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The Z30 having a larger sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field less difficult and the Nikon Z30 will show extra detail using its extra 9MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The fresher Z30 is going to have an advantage in sensor technology.