Olympus E-1 vs Samsung NX5

On this page, we will be contrasting the Olympus E-1 versus Samsung NX5, one being a Pro DSLR and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Samsung. There is a huge difference between the sensor resolutions of the E-1 (5MP) and NX5 (15MP) and the E-1 (Four Thirds) and NX5 (APS-C) have totally different sensor size.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The E-1 was manufactured 7 years before the NX5 and that is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-1 being a Large SLR camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before going into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the E-1 matches up versus the NX5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-1 and Samsung NX5. The entire galleries are available at Olympus E-1 Gallery and Samsung NX5 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera, you have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-1 features exterior measurements of 141mm x 104mm x 81mm (5.6" x 4.1" x 3.2") along with a weight of 735 grams (1.62 lbs) while the Samsung NX5 has dimensions of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") and a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-1 versus Samsung NX5 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are employing at that time. Underneath is a front view proportions comparison of the E-1 versus the NX5.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the E-1 and NX5 is 59 and 80 respectively.

Often, it is very difficult to see the difference between sensor sizing simply by checking a spec sheet. The visual underneath might provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the E-1 and NX5.

Clearly, the 2 cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-1 featuring a tinier sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field more difficult and the Samsung NX5 will resolve more detail due to its extra 10MP. Higher resolution will let you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The older E-1 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.