Olympus FE-45 vs Olympus E-P3

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Olympus FE-45 versus Olympus E-P3, one is a Small Sensor Compact and the other is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and they are both produced by Olympus. The image resolution of the FE-45 (10MP) and the E-P3 (12MP) is fairly similar but the FE-45 (1/2.3") and E-P3 (Four Thirds) come with different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The FE-45 was brought out 3 years before the E-P3 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus FE-45 being a Compact camera and the Olympus E-P3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the FE-45 grades against the E-P3 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus FE-45 and Olympus PEN E-P3. The entire galleries are available at Olympus FE-45 Gallery and Olympus E-P3 Gallery.

In case you're looking to travel with your camera, you are going to need to consider its weight and size. The Olympus FE-45 has got exterior dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") along with a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-P3 has specifications of 122mm x 69mm x 34mm (4.8" x 2.7" x 1.3") along with a weight of 369 grams (0.81 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus FE-45 versus Olympus E-P3 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose during that time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the FE-45 against the E-P3.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the FE-45 and E-P3 is 95 and 86 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to imagine the contrast between sensor dimensions just by reviewing specs. The pic here might offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the FE-45 and E-P3.

All in all, both of those cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The FE-45 featuring a tinier sensor is going to make shooting bokeh more challenging and the Olympus E-P3 will deliver more detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will help you crop photos a little more aggressively. The more aged FE-45 is going to be behind in sensor tech.