Olympus E-M1 vs Samsung NX5

Following is a detailed analysis of the Olympus E-M1 versus Samsung NX5, former is a Pro Mirrorless while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Samsung. The image resolution of the E-M1 (16MP) and the NX5 (15MP) is pretty well matched but the E-M1 (Four Thirds) and NX5 (APS-C) use different sensor measurements.

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The E-M1 was brought out 3 years after the NX5 which is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras come with the identical body type (SLR-style mirrorless).

Before going in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the E-M1 grades against the NX5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus OM-D E-M1 & Samsung NX5. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-M1 Gallery & Samsung NX5 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you'll need to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-M1 comes with physical dimensions of 130mm x 94mm x 63mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.5") having a weight of 497 grams (1.10 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX5 has proportions of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") having a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-M1 versus Samsung NX5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is the front view dimension comparison of the E-M1 versus the NX5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-M1 and NX5 is 71 and 80 respectively.

Normally, it is very difficult to visualize the difference between sensor sizes purely by checking a spec sheet. The picture here may provide you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the E-M1 and NX5.

Clearly, both of those cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-M1 featuring a tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Olympus E-M1 will resolve greater detail having its extra 1 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots somewhat more aggressively. The younger E-M1 provides an edge with regard to sensor innovation.