Olympus E-M1 III vs Sony A9

In this write-up, we will be matching up the Olympus E-M1 III and Sony A9, both Pro Mirrorless digital cameras by companies Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the E-M1 III (20MP) and the A9 (24MP) is relatively well matched but the E-M1 III (Four Thirds) and A9 (Full frame) feature different sensor sizes.

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The E-M1 III was announced 2 years after the A9 which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (SLR-style mirrorless).

Before going straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the E-M1 III matches up vs the A9 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III and Sony Alpha A9. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-M1 III Gallery and Sony A9 Gallery.

When you are aiming to travel with your camera, you should consider its weight and size. The Olympus E-M1 III offers external dimensions of 134mm x 91mm x 69mm (5.3" x 3.6" x 2.7") having a weight of 580 grams (1.28 lbs) while the Sony A9 has specifications of 127mm x 96mm x 63mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.5") with a weight of 673 grams (1.48 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus E-M1 III and Sony A9 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the E-M1 III vs the A9.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-M1 III and A9 is 67 and 65 respectively.

Normally, it's tough to imagine the contrast between sensor dimensions merely by looking at specs. The pic underneath might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the E-M1 III and A9.

All in all, both cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The E-M1 III with its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field more difficult and the Sony A9 will give you greater detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop shots a little more aggressively. The younger E-M1 III should have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.