Olympus E-5 vs Pentax RZ18

Here, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-5 vs Pentax RZ18, former being a Advanced DSLR while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by brands Olympus and Pentax. There exists a noticeable gap among the sensor resolutions of the E-5 (12MP) and RZ18 (16MP) and the E-5 (Four Thirds) and RZ18 (1/2.3") posses different sensor dimensions.

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The E-5 was unveiled 7 months before the RZ18 and they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Pentax RZ18 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the E-5 scores vs the RZ18 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus E-5 & Pentax Optio RZ18. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-5 Gallery & Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera regularly, you will need to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus E-5 comes with external measurements of 143mm x 117mm x 75mm (5.6" x 4.6" x 3.0") and a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs) while the Pentax RZ18 has specifications of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-5 vs Pentax RZ18 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Underneath is a front view overall size comparison of the E-5 vs the RZ18.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-5 and RZ18 is 58 and 92 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizing simply by seeing technical specs. The graphic underneath may give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the E-5 and RZ18.

As you have seen, both of those cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-5 using its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Pentax RZ18 will show extra detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures a good deal more aggressively. The older E-5 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.