Olympus E-M5 vs Olympus E-PL9

On this page, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-M5 versus Olympus E-PL9, one is a Advanced Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and both of them are built by Olympus. The image resolution of the E-M5 (16MP) and the E-PL9 (16MP) is relatively well matched and both cameras provide the same sensor dimensions (Four Thirds).

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The E-M5 was introduced 6 years before the E-PL9 which is quite a significant gap as far as tech is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-M5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus E-PL9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving into a comprehensive comparison, here is a simple overview of how the E-M5 grades versus the E-PL9 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus OM-D E-M5 and Olympus PEN E-PL9. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-M5 Gallery and Olympus E-PL9 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to travel with your camera regularly, you need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-M5 enjoys outer dimensions of 122mm x 89mm x 43mm (4.8" x 3.5" x 1.7") having a weight of 425 grams (0.94 lbs) and the Olympus E-PL9 has proportions of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-M5 versus Olympus E-PL9 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you select at that time. Following is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-M5 compared to the E-PL9.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the E-M5 and E-PL9 is 81 and 85 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to visualize the gap between sensor dimensions purely by reading through technical specs. The image here will give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-M5 and E-PL9.

As you can tell, the two cameras provide the same sensor dimensions and the exact same MP therefore you should expect similar quality of photographs but you have to factor the production date of the products into consideration. The more aged E-M5 is going to be behind with regard to sensor tech.