Olympus E-520 vs Pentax K-r

Here, we will be reviewing the Olympus E-520 versus Pentax K-r, both Entry-Level DSLR cameras by competitors Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the E-520 (10MP) and the K-r (12MP) is pretty comparable but the E-520 (Four Thirds) and K-r (APS-C) posses different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The E-520 was manufactured 3 years earlier than the K-r which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras feature the same body design (Compact SLR).

Before diving straight to a complete comparison, here is a brief summary of how the E-520 scores vs the K-r with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus E-520 & Pentax K-r. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-520 Gallery & Pentax K-r Gallery.

If you're intending to carry around your camera regularly, you will want to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-520 has exterior dimensions of 136mm x 92mm x 68mm (5.4" x 3.6" x 2.7") having a weight of 552 grams (1.22 lbs) while the Pentax K-r has proportions of 125mm x 97mm x 68mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 2.7") having a weight of 598 grams (1.32 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-520 versus Pentax K-r in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached at the time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the E-520 compared to the K-r.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the E-520 and K-r is 68 and 67 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to picture the gap in sensor sizes merely by checking out specs. The pic below might provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the E-520 and K-r.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-520 due to its smaller sensor is going to make achieving bokeh tougher and the Pentax K-r will produce more detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The more aged E-520 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.