Olympus E-420 vs Olympus E-PL1

On this page, we are matching up the Olympus E-420 versus Olympus E-PL1, one is a Entry-Level DSLR and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both are created by Olympus. The image resolution of the E-420 (10MP) and the E-PL1 (12MP) is fairly well matched and both cameras have the same sensor dimensions (Four Thirds).

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The E-420 was brought out 23 months before the E-PL1 making them a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-420 being a Compact SLR camera and the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving straight to a full comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the E-420 grades against the E-PL1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus E-420 and Olympus PEN E-PL1. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-420 Gallery and Olympus E-PL1 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry around your camera, you'll have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-420 has exterior dimensions of 130mm x 91mm x 53mm (5.1" x 3.6" x 2.1") along with a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs) and 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).

Analyze the Olympus E-420 versus Olympus E-PL1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you select at that time. Here is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-420 versus the E-PL1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the E-420 and E-PL1 is 77 and 86 respectively.

Often, it is tough to picture the difference between sensor sizes simply by reading through specs. The picture underneath may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-420 and E-PL1.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You should anticipate the Olympus E-PL1 to resolve greater detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop images more aggressively. The more aged E-420 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.