Olympus FE-45 vs Olympus E-PL2

Below, we will be contrasting the Olympus FE-45 and Olympus E-PL2, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are offered by Olympus. The resolution of the FE-45 (10MP) and the E-PL2 (12MP) is relatively close but the FE-45 (1/2.3") and E-PL2 (Four Thirds) enjoy totally different sensor dimensions.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The FE-45 was introduced 3 years before the E-PL2 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus FE-45 being a Compact camera and the Olympus E-PL2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go straight into a detailed comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the FE-45 scores versus the E-PL2 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus FE-45 and Olympus PEN E-PL2. The whole galleries are available at Olympus FE-45 Gallery and Olympus E-PL2 Gallery.

For those who are planning to carry your camera, you will want to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus FE-45 comes with external dimensions of 94mm x 62mm x 23mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 0.9") and a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs) and the Olympus E-PL2 has sizing of 114mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 362 grams (0.80 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus FE-45 and Olympus E-PL2 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have attached at that time. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the FE-45 vs the E-PL2.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the FE-45 and E-PL2 is 95 and 85 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing simply by researching specifications. The graphic underneath should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the FE-45 and E-PL2.

To sum up, both cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The FE-45 with its smaller sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field tougher and the Olympus E-PL2 will provide you with extra detail using its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also let you crop pictures somewhat more aggressively. The older FE-45 will be behind in sensor technology.