Olympus E-510 vs Olympus 5010

Here is a in-depth review of the Olympus E-510 versus Olympus 5010, one being a Advanced DSLR and the latter is a Ultracompact and they are both built by Olympus. There is a big difference between the image resolutions of the E-510 (10MP) and 5010 (14MP) and the E-510 (Four Thirds) and 5010 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The E-510 was unveiled 3 years earlier than the 5010 and that is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-510 being a Mid-size SLR camera and the Olympus 5010 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a short introduction of how the E-510 grades versus the 5010 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus E-510 and Olympus Stylus 5010. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus E-510 Gallery and Olympus 5010 Gallery.

When you are aiming to carry your camera, you will need to consider its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-510 offers physical dimensions of 136mm x 92mm x 68mm (5.4" x 3.6" x 2.7") having a weight of 490 grams (1.08 lbs) while the Olympus 5010 has measurements of 95mm x 56mm x 20mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 0.8") with a weight of 126 grams (0.28 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-510 versus Olympus 5010 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have at the time. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the E-510 compared to the 5010.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the E-510 and 5010 is 69 and 96 respectively.

Usually, it is hard to visualise the gap between sensor sizing merely by looking at specs. The visual below may give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-510 and 5010.

As you can plainly see, both cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-510 with its bigger sensor will make achieving shallower DOF easier and the Olympus 5010 will resolve greater detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots way more aggressively. The older E-510 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.