Olympus E-P1 vs Olympus E-PL6

On this page, we will be analyzing the Olympus E-P1 and Olympus E-PL6, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras and both are produced by Olympus. There exists a sizable gap among the sensor resolutions of the E-P1 (12MP) and E-PL6 (16MP) but both cameras have the same sensor sizing (Four Thirds).

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The E-P1 was revealed 6 years prior to the E-PL6 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a concise overview of how the E-P1 grades vs the E-PL6 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-P1 & Olympus PEN E-PL6. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-P1 Gallery & Olympus E-PL6 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry around your camera, you are going to need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-P1 enjoys outside 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-PL6 has dimensions of 111mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.5") and a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-P1 and Olympus E-PL6 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you select at that time. Below is a front view sizing comparison of the E-P1 against the E-PL6.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-P1 and E-PL6 is 86 and 88 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to envision the difference in sensor sizes merely by researching technical specs. The image below may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P1 and E-PL6.

As you can tell, each of the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same megapixels. You can expect the Olympus E-PL6 to render extra detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs more aggressively. The more aged E-P1 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.