Olympus E-P1 vs Olympus E-PL5

Lets examine more in depth at the Olympus E-P1 vs Olympus E-PL5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras and both of them are designed by Olympus. There is a considerable difference among the image resolutions of the E-P1 (12MP) and E-PL5 (16MP) but they come with the same exact sensor dimensions (Four Thirds).

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The E-P1 was brought out 4 years earlier than the E-PL5 and that is a fairly large difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a simple overview of how the E-P1 scores versus the E-PL5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-P1 & Olympus PEN E-PL5. The entire galleries are available at Olympus E-P1 Gallery & Olympus E-PL5 Gallery.

When you are aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you'll need to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus E-P1 has outer dimensions of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") having a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) and the Olympus E-PL5 has sizing of 111mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.5") along with a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-P1 vs Olympus E-PL5 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have during that time. The following is the front view dimensions comparison of the E-P1 compared to the E-PL5.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the E-P1 and E-PL5 is 86 and 88 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to imagine the gap in sensor measurements simply by looking through technical specs. The photograph here might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P1 and E-PL5.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You can expect the Olympus E-PL5 to result in extra detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures a little more aggressively. The older E-P1 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.