Olympus E-420 vs Panasonic GX8

Below, we are analyzing the Olympus E-420 and Panasonic GX8, former being a Entry-Level DSLR while the other is a Advanced Mirrorless by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a substantial difference between the image resolutions of the E-420 (10MP) and GX8 (20MP) but they use the exact same sensor sizes (Four Thirds).

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The E-420 was released 8 years earlier than the GX8 and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-420 being a Compact SLR camera and the Panasonic GX8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go through a in depth comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the E-420 grades against the GX8 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus E-420 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-420 Gallery & Panasonic GX8 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera, you will want to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus E-420 has outside measurements of 130mm x 91mm x 53mm (5.1" x 3.6" x 2.1") and a weight of 426 grams (0.94 lbs) and the Panasonic GX8 has sizing of 133mm x 78mm x 63mm (5.2" x 3.1" x 2.5") having a weight of 487 grams (1.07 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-420 and Panasonic GX8 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are working with at the time. The following is the front view dimension comparison of the E-420 versus the GX8.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the E-420 and GX8 is 77 and 74 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to see the gap between sensor sizing only by reviewing technical specs. The graphic below may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the E-420 and GX8.

As you can tell, each of these cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but not the same megapixels. You can expect to see the Panasonic GX8 to offer greater detail as a result of its extra 10MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The older E-420 is going to be behind in sensor technology.