Olympus E-M1 vs Sony a1

Following is a in depth comparison of the Olympus E-M1 versus Sony a1, both Pro Mirrorless cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. There is a large difference among the image resolutions of the E-M1 (16MP) and a1 (50MP) and the E-M1 (Four Thirds) and a1 (Full frame) enjoy totally different sensor sizing.

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The E-M1 was manufactured 8 years prior to the a1 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (SLR-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a short summary of how the E-M1 grades against the a1 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus OM-D E-M1 & Sony Alpha a1. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-M1 Gallery & Sony a1 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus E-M1 provides outer measurements 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 Sony a1 has sizing of 129mm x 97mm x 70mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") with a weight of 737 grams (1.62 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-M1 versus Sony a1 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have chosen at that time. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the E-M1 against the a1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the E-M1 and a1 is 71 and 61 respectively.

Often, it is hard to envision the contrast in sensor sizes simply by checking out a spec sheet. The picture underneath may offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-M1 and a1.

As you can see, the two cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The E-M1 due to its smaller sensor will make getting shallower DOF more difficult and the Sony a1 will produce greater detail due to its extra 34MP. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop pics a little more aggressively. The more aged E-M1 will be behind when it comes to sensor tech.