Olympus E-5 vs Pentax MX-1

Its time to look more in depth at the Olympus E-5 and Pentax MX-1, one is a Advanced DSLR and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the E-5 (12MP) and the MX-1 (12MP) is relatively comparable but the E-5 (Four Thirds) and MX-1 (1/1.7") provide totally different sensor size.

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The E-5 was introduced 3 years prior to the MX-1 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Pentax MX-1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving right into a in depth comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the E-5 grades versus the MX-1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-5 and Pentax MX-1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-5 Gallery and Pentax MX-1 Gallery.

When you are going to travel with your camera regularly, you'll have to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus E-5 features outside 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 Pentax MX-1 has sizing of 122mm x 61mm x 51mm (4.8" x 2.4" x 2.0") with a weight of 391 grams (0.86 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-5 and Pentax MX-1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose during that time. Following is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-5 vs the MX-1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-5 and MX-1 is 58 and 84 respectively.

More often than not, it's difficult to visualise the contrast in sensor dimensions only by checking out a spec sheet. The pic below may provide you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the E-5 and MX-1.

Clearly, each of these cameras come with the identical megapixel count albeit not the same sensor dimensions. The E-5 contains the bigger sensor which will make achieving bokeh less difficult. The more aged E-5 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.