Olympus E-P1 vs Panasonic LX3

On this page, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-P1 and Panasonic LX3, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the LX3 (10MP) is pretty close but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and LX3 (1/1.63") boast different sensor measurements.

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The E-P1 was announced 9 months later than the LX3 so they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic LX3 being a Compact camera.

Before we go into a thorough comparison, here is a brief view of how the E-P1 matches up against the LX3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-P1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-P1 Gallery and Panasonic LX3 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry your camera regularly, you'll need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-P1 enjoys outside dimensions of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") along with a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) while the Panasonic LX3 has dimensions of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") having a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-P1 and Panasonic LX3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the E-P1 vs the LX3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the E-P1 and LX3 is 86 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, its difficult to visualize the contrast in sensor sizing only by looking through specs. The photograph below should give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P1 and LX3.

All in all, the 2 cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-P1 having a bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Olympus E-P1 will result in greater detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop shots more aggressively. The younger E-P1 provides a benefit in sensor tech.