Olympus E-5 vs Olympus E-500

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Olympus E-5 and Olympus E-500, both Advanced DSLR digital cameras and both of them are offered by Olympus. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the E-5 (12MP) and E-500 (8MP) but they feature the same exact sensor sizes (Four Thirds).

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The E-5 was brought out 5 years after the E-500 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Mid-size SLR).

Before getting through a full comparison, below is a short introduction of how the E-5 scores vs the E-500 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus E-5 and Olympus E-500. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-5 Gallery and Olympus E-500 Gallery.

If you are planning to travel with your camera often, you will need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-5 comes with physical measurements of 143mm x 117mm x 75mm (5.6" x 4.6" x 3.0") having a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-500 has dimensions of 130mm x 95mm x 66mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.6") along with a weight of 479 grams (1.06 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-5 and Olympus E-500 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you use at that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the E-5 vs the E-500.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the E-5 and E-500 is 58 and 70 respectively.

Generally, its tough to imagine the difference between sensor dimensions just by checking technical specs. The picture here may give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-5 and E-500.

As you have seen, the two cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing but different resolution. You should expect to see the Olympus E-5 to give greater detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop images a little more aggressively. The fresher E-5 should have an advantage with regard to sensor tech.