Olympus E-P1 vs Olympus SP-590 UZ

Here is a extended assessment of the Olympus E-P1 versus Olympus SP-590 UZ, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both offered by Olympus. The sensor resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the SP-590 UZ (12MP) is fairly similar but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and SP-590 UZ (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor size.

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The E-P1 was introduced 7 months later than the SP-590 UZ so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go right into a in depth comparison, here is a short highlight of how the E-P1 matches up against the SP-590 UZ in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P1 and Olympus SP-590 UZ. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-P1 Gallery and Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery.

For anybody who is going to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-P1 enjoys exterior dimensions of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) while the Olympus SP-590 UZ has proportions of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-P1 versus Olympus SP-590 UZ in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you select at that moment. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the E-P1 versus the SP-590 UZ.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-P1 and SP-590 UZ is 86 and 72 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing just by reviewing specifications. The graphic here may give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P1 and SP-590 UZ.

Plainly, both of the cameras have the same megapixels but not the same sensor sizing. The E-P1 features the larger sensor which is going to make getting shallower depth of field easier. The newer E-P1 will have a benefit with regard to sensor innovation.