Olympus E-P1 vs Olympus E-PM1

In this write-up, we are reviewing the Olympus E-P1 and Olympus E-PM1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras and both of them are sold by Olympus. The sensor resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the E-PM1 (12MP) is fairly well matched and they possess the same exact sensor sizing (Four Thirds).

Photography Glossary

The E-P1 was released 3 years prior to the E-PM1 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting in to a full comparison, below is a brief summation of how the E-P1 matches up vs the E-PM1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P1 and Olympus PEN E-PM1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-P1 Gallery and Olympus E-PM1 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to lug around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-P1 features exterior measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") with a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) and the Olympus E-PM1 has dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-P1 and Olympus E-PM1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are employing during that time. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the E-P1 against the E-PM1.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the E-P1 and E-PM1 is 86 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very tough to envision the gap between sensor measurements just by checking a spec sheet. The photograph here might give you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-P1 and E-PM1.

Clearly, both of those cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the exact same resolution therefore you should expect similar quality of pictures though you would want to factor the release date of the products into consideration. The older E-P1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.