Olympus E-1 vs Olympus E-30

In this write-up, we are matching up the Olympus E-1 versus Olympus E-30, one is a Pro DSLR and the other is a Advanced DSLR and both are created by Olympus. There is a sizeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the E-1 (5MP) and E-30 (12MP) but they possess the same exact sensor dimensions (Four Thirds).

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The E-1 was revealed 6 years earlier than the E-30 which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-1 being a Large SLR camera and the Olympus E-30 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before getting straight into a complete comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the E-1 matches up vs the E-30 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus E-1 and Olympus E-30. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-1 Gallery and Olympus E-30 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera frequently, you should consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-1 comes with physical dimensions of 141mm x 104mm x 81mm (5.6" x 4.1" x 3.2") with a weight of 735 grams (1.62 lbs) while the Olympus E-30 has proportions of 142mm x 108mm x 75mm (5.6" x 4.3" x 3.0") and a weight of 695 grams (1.53 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-1 versus Olympus E-30 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have chosen at the time. Below is the front view dimension comparison of the E-1 against the E-30.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the E-1 and E-30 is 59 and 60 respectively.

Usually, its tough to see the gap between sensor sizes only by going over technical specs. The picture below will give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-1 and E-30.

As you can tell, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You should anticipate the Olympus E-30 to deliver extra detail because of its extra 7 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop images far more aggressively. The more aged E-1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.