Olympus E-5 vs Pentax Q7

In this article, we will be contrasting the Olympus E-5 vs Pentax Q7, one being a Advanced DSLR and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the E-5 (12MP) and the Q7 (12MP) is pretty comparable but the E-5 (Four Thirds) and Q7 (1/1.7") feature different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The E-5 was introduced 3 years prior to the Q7 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-5 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Pentax Q7 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting in to a more detailed comparison, below is a brief summary of how the E-5 grades vs the Q7 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus E-5 and Pentax Q7. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-5 Gallery and Pentax Q7 Gallery.

When you are planning to lug around your camera regularly, you'll have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-5 features exterior measurements of 143mm x 117mm x 75mm (5.6" x 4.6" x 3.0") having a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs) and the Pentax Q7 has dimensions of 102mm x 58mm x 34mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.3") with a weight of 200 grams (0.44 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-5 vs Pentax Q7 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Following is the front view over all size comparison of the E-5 vs the Q7.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the E-5 and Q7 is 58 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to imagine the contrast in sensor measurements purely by seeing a spec sheet. The visual underneath will give you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-5 and Q7.

Clearly, both of the cameras offer the same exact resolution albeit different sensor measurements. The E-5 uses the bigger sensor which will make achieving shallower DOF easier. The older E-5 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.