Olympus E-P1 vs Olympus E-PL3

Here is a in-depth review of the Olympus E-P1 versus Olympus E-PL3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras and they are both built by Olympus. The image resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the E-PL3 (12MP) is fairly close and both cameras offer the same sensor measurements (Four Thirds).

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The E-P1 was released 3 years prior to the E-PL3 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief summation of how the E-P1 scores versus the E-PL3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P1 and Olympus PEN E-PL3. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-P1 Gallery and Olympus E-PL3 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry your camera regularly, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus E-P1 features outer measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") along with a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-PL3 has sizing of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") along with a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-P1 versus Olympus E-PL3 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is a front view size comparison of the E-P1 compared to the E-PL3.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the E-P1 and E-PL3 is 86 and 88 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to envision the gap in sensor sizing merely by viewing technical specs. The photograph below should give you a stronger sense of the sensor measurements in the E-P1 and E-PL3.

As you can tell, both cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the exact same megapixels therefore you should expect comparable quality of files though you have to take the production date of the cameras into account. The older E-P1 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.