Olympus FE-47 vs Pentax K-01

Comparing the Olympus FE-47 and Pentax K-01: A Technical and Practical Analysis for Photography Enthusiasts

Choosing the right camera involves careful consideration of many factors including sensor technology, autofocus performance, ergonomics, and suitability across photographic genres. In this comprehensive article, we draw on extensive hands-on experience with thousands of cameras to dissect the significant differences and pragmatic implications of using the Olympus FE-47 versus the Pentax K-01. While these two models cater to markedly different segments of the market - compact point-and-shoot versus entry-level mirrorless - they nonetheless warrant direct comparison to clarify their strengths, limitations, and best-use scenarios.

Foundations: Camera Design, Handling, and Ergonomics

The Olympus FE-47 is a small sensor compact camera announced in early 2010. Its compact form factor (98 x 61 x 27 mm) and lightweight body (204 g including batteries) represent classic pocketability aimed at casual users. The fixed 36-180mm equivalent zoom lens offers modest reach, but the compact size mandates compromises in control complexity and grip comfort. Body construction utilizes polycarbonate plastics mainly, reflecting a focus on affordability rather than ruggedness.

In contrast, the Pentax K-01, launched in 2012, adopts an SLR-style mirrorless body measuring 122 x 79 x 58 mm and weighing 561 g. While significantly larger and heavier than the FE-47, the K-01 features a robust metal chassis and extensive manual controls - including physical dials for shutter speed, exposure compensation, and modes - targeted at photographers requiring precise tactile feedback. The camera employs the Pentax KAF2 lens mount, enabling compatibility with over 150 interchangeable lenses, a clear advantage in flexibility and artistic expression.

Both models lack electronic viewfinders (EVFs), relying instead on rear displays for composition - important for specific shooting conditions (see LCD section). The FE-47’s smaller footprint is ideal for street or travel scenarios demanding portability, whereas the K-01’s more substantial build appeals to users prioritizing operational control and durability.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Metrics

At the core of photographic quality lies the image sensor, and here the Olympus FE-47 and Pentax K-01 exhibit significant disparities. The FE-47 uses a 1/2.3” CCD sensor measuring approximately 6.08 x 4.56 mm (sensor area ~28 mm²) with 14 megapixels resolution (4288x3216). This small sensor size constrains dynamic range, signal-to-noise ratios at elevated ISOs, and depth of field control.

Conversely, the K-01 features a substantially larger APS-C sized CMOS sensor, 23.7 x 15.7 mm (sensor area ~372 mm²), with 16 megapixels (4928 x 3264). The sensor technology transition from CCD to CMOS contributes to improved readout speeds, noise characteristics, and power efficiency. The K-01’s larger sensor surface harvests more light per pixel, translating to better image quality, wider tonal gradations, and more versatile ISO performance.

Resolution differences - 14MP vs. 16MP - are marginal in terms of pixel count but notable sensor size advantage heavily favors the K-01 for detail retention and cropping latitude. Further, the K-01 supports lossless RAW capture enabling superior post-processing flexibility, whereas the FE-47 is limited to compressed JPEG only, restricting creative latitude and workflow control.

Autofocus Precision and Speed: Practical Implications

Autofocus (AF) can be a decisive factor depending on photographic discipline. The Olympus FE-47 uses a contrast detection system typical for compact cameras of its era. It offers single and continuous AF modes but lacks advanced face or eye detection and no manual focus ability. Focus acquisition can be sluggish and prone to hunting in low-light or macro conditions, limiting utility for action or wildlife photography.

On the other hand, the Pentax K-01 implements a more sophisticated contrast-detection AF system with 81 AF points, including face detection. It provides single and continuous autofocus modes, manual focus override, and superior tracking abilities - though no phase-detection AF or on-sensor PDAF means it can sometimes lag behind contemporary hybrid AF systems. Notably, focus peaking or magnified manual focus assist helps precise focusing in macro and manual situations.

For fast-moving subjects such as sports or wildlife, the K-01’s burst shooting at 6 fps combined with its autofocus system offers considerable advantages. The FE-47’s lack of continuous shooting makes it impractical for these genres.

Display and User Interface: Visibility and Control

Both cameras eschew viewfinders, relying solely on rear LCD screens. The Olympus FE-47 possesses a 2.7 inch fixed screen with modest 230k dots resolution. This combination is adequate for basic framing but can be challenging to scrutinize fine focus or exposure details outdoors under bright sunlight. The lack of touchscreen operation or articulating movement further limits versatility, particularly for complex shooting angles.

The Pentax K-01’s 3 inch TFT LCD boasts a substantially higher 921k dots resolution offering crisp, detailed image review and menu navigation. The fixed screen also lacks touch functionality but provides wider viewing angles beneficial in varied shooting scenarios.

User interface on the FE-47 is simplified, with limited exposure controls and no manual mode, reducing complexity but also restricting creative experimentation. The K-01’s interface, with dedicated exposure dials, programmable buttons, and comprehensive menu options, supports advanced workflows and adapts well to professional use.

Optics and Lens Ecosystem Compatibility

The Olympus FE-47’s fixed zoom lens covers a 36-180 mm range (5x zoom) with maximum apertures from f/3.5 to f/5.6. This lens is designed for general-purpose use, appropriate for casual snapshots, landscapes, and portraits with reasonable reach. Its closest focusing distance at 3 cm nominally supports macro-style close-ups but optical limitations and lack of image stabilization reduce sharpness potential.

In sharp contrast, the Pentax K-01 accepts any Pentax K-mount lens, of which over 150 variants exist encompassing wide-angle, telephoto, macro, tilt-shift, and specialty optics. This vast ecosystem empowers users to tailor their optical setup precisely to photographic genre. Notably, the K-01’s sensor-based image stabilization supports shake reduction even with non-stabilized lenses, enhancing low-light and macro versatility.

This modular lens flexibility radically expands creative horizons and provides tangible performance gains in challenging photo assignments - wildlife telephoto reach, fast primes for portraits, ultra-wide for landscapes, and dedicated macro lenses for detailed closeups.

Continuous Shooting, Video, and Multimedia Capabilities

The FE-47 lacks continuous shooting capabilities and offers video recording limited to 640x480 at 30 fps in Motion JPEG format. This resolution is modest for contemporary expectations, suitable only for casual home movies or quick social sharing. Audio capture is internal with no microphone input, restricting professional video use.

Conversely, the K-01 supports 6 fps burst shooting, advantageous for capturing action sequences in sports and wildlife photography. Video functionality includes Full HD (1920 x 1080) recording at 30/25/24 fps, HD (1280 x 720) at up to 60 fps, and standard definitions with MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs. The presence of a microphone port facilitates external audio capture, enhancing sound fidelity for video projects. However, the absence of a headphone jack limits monitoring during recording.

Neither camera offers modern features such as 4K video, touchscreen video controls, or advanced autofocus tracking in video mode - limitations appropriate for their market segments and release timelines.

Battery Life and Storage Considerations

The Olympus FE-47 operates from two AA batteries, an accessible and easily replaceable power source. However, battery life metrics are unspecified and typically shorter compared to lithium-ion rechargeable batteries in modern devices. This power arrangement favors sporadic use but can burden extended shooting sessions due to battery depletion and replacements.

The Pentax K-01 relies on a proprietary D-LI90 lithium-ion battery rated for approximately 540 shots per charge according to CIPA standards. This figure represents robust endurance consistent with mirrorless systems and supports demanding field workflows. The single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot accommodates high-capacity memory cards and facilitates the use of fast UHS-I standards required for video and burst modes.

Connectivity and External Interface

Neither model incorporates wireless connectivity such as Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, or NFC, excluding seamless image transfer or remote operation without physical cables or third-party devices. USB 2.0 ports exist on both, adequate for tethered transfers but slower than modern USB 3.0 or higher bandwidth alternatives.

The K-01 includes a mini-HDMI port enabling high-definition output to external monitors or recorders, enriching professional video and presentation workflows. The FE-47 lacks HDMI support - an expected omission in a compact fixed-lens camera.

Practical Performance Across Photography Genres

Portraiture

The Pentax K-01 significantly outperforms the FE-47 in portrait photography. Its large APS-C sensor facilitates shallower depth of field for creamy background bokeh, more accurate skin tone rendition, and superior resolution. Face detection autofocus improves focus reliability on eyes and facial features. The extensive lens line allows use of fast primes delivering flattering compression and sharpness. By contrast, the FE-47’s small sensor and slow fixed lens hinder bokeh potential and fine detail capture, while autofocus lacks face recognition.

Landscape

Large sensor size and dynamic range capability give the K-01 a decisive edge for landscapes. Its superior tonal gradations and resolution capture intricate textures and subtle shadows. Interchangeable lenses include ultra-wide options essential for expansive vistas. The FE-47, while compact, offers limited dynamic range and resolution, and its fixed lens cannot approach the versatility needed for wide or specialized landscape compositions. Neither camera offers weather sealing, limiting rugged outdoor use.

Wildlife and Sports

The FE-47’s limited zoom reach, slow autofocus, and lack of continuous shooting render it unsuitable for wildlife or sports photography. The K-01’s 6 fps burst and extensive lens choices - especially telephotos - enable competent shooting in these genres. Despite absence of phase-detection AF, its contrast-based AF performs reliably in good light but may struggle tracking fast subjects.

Street and Travel

In street photography, the FE-47’s pocket-size and lightweight design offer advantages in discretion and convenience. Its zoom lens covers typical street focal lengths without lens changes. However, slow autofocus and no manual control limit responsiveness and creative freedom.

The K-01 is bulkier but still portable for travel. Its image stabilization and extensive lens options are assets. Battery life and ruggedness suit longer trips but modest size and weight may constrain casual street use.

Macro

While the FE-47 permits macro shooting down to 3 cm, image quality suffers due to lack of stabilization and optical compromises. The K-01’s compatibility with dedicated macro lenses, combined with sensor-based stabilization and manual focusing aids, supports precise and high-quality macro work.

Night and Astro Photography

Large APS-C sensor and higher native ISO range support better low-light performance on the K-01. Although not specialized for astro photography, it offers manual exposure modes, RAW files, and long shutter speeds facilitating night scenes. The FE-47’s lack of manual controls and higher noise at elevated ISO values restrict astrophotography viability.

Professional Use and Workflow Integration

The Pentax K-01 stands as a more capable tool in professional contexts, offering RAW file support, comprehensive manual controls, external flash compatibility, and HDMI output. However, limited weather sealing or advanced wireless connectivity may deter some professionals seeking robust field solutions.

Conversely, the FE-47’s fixed JPEG output, minimal controls, and image quality restrict professional applicability to casual or illustrative roles rather than critical assignments.

Olympus FE 47 front Olympus FE 47 screen back Pentax K 01 front Pentax K 01 screen back

Summary Ratings and Value Analysis

In aggregate performance, the K-01’s overall DxO mark (79) benchmarks it as a capable entry-level mirrorless camera with solid image quality and versatility, whereas the FE-47 was not tested but expected to score significantly lower given technical limitations.

Genre-specific assessments underpin targeted recommendations:

Final Recommendations

Choose the Olympus FE-47 if:

• You require an ultra-compact, inexpensive camera for basic snapshots.
• Image quality is a secondary concern to portability and instant shooting.
• Your photographic needs do not extend beyond casual travel or family events.
• Budget constraints preclude investing in larger interchangeable lens systems.

Opt for the Pentax K-01 if:

• You desire an entry-level mirrorless camera with solid image quality and lens adaptability.
• Manual control, RAW output, and greater technical flexibility are priorities.
• Your photographic interests span multiple genres, including portraits, landscapes, macro, and some action.
• You value expandable multimedia options, including Full HD video with external audio.
• Portability is important but secondary to performance and creative control.

Closing Perspective

The Olympus FE-47 epitomizes the compact camera ethos of its era - affordability and simplicity - yet this comes with numerous compromises precluding serious photography. The Pentax K-01, while no longer state-of-the-art, embodies a transitional design bridging DSLR ergonomics with mirrorless flexibility, delivering a markedly more capable platform for photographers seeking technical and creative capability within a moderate budget. Users should weigh these fundamental differences aligned with their photographic ambitions and shooting environments to arrive at an informed purchase.

This detailed comparison aims to provide a clear-eyed, experiential understanding grounded in technical analysis and operational realities, assisting photographers in selecting the camera best suited to their needs and stages of photographic development.