Olympus FE-5020 vs Olympus E-PL1s

Here, we will be contrasting the Olympus FE-5020 vs Olympus E-PL1s, one being a Small Sensor Compact and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are created by Olympus. The image resolution of the FE-5020 (12MP) and the E-PL1s (12MP) is relatively well matched but the FE-5020 (1/2.3") and E-PL1s (Four Thirds) have totally different sensor sizing.

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The FE-5020 was released 16 months prior to the E-PL1s which makes them a generation apart from each other. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus FE-5020 being a Compact camera and the Olympus E-PL1s being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting into a comprehensive comparison, here is a concise summary of how the FE-5020 scores vs the E-PL1s with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus FE-5020 and Olympus PEN E-PL1s. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus FE-5020 Gallery and Olympus E-PL1s Gallery.

When you are looking to carry your camera, you need to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus FE-5020 has external dimensions of 93mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.7" x 2.2" x 1.0") having a weight of 137 grams (0.30 lbs) and the Olympus E-PL1s has proportions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") and a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus FE-5020 vs Olympus E-PL1s in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you select at the time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the FE-5020 and the E-PL1s.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the FE-5020 and E-PL1s is 95 and 86 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizing merely by looking at technical specs. The photograph below will offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the FE-5020 and E-PL1s.

As you have seen, the two cameras come with the identical MP albeit not the same sensor sizing. The FE-5020 features the tinier sensor which should make getting bokeh tougher. The older FE-5020 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor technology.