Olympus E-P1 vs Pentax E70

Below, we are evaluating the Olympus E-P1 vs Pentax E70, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the E70 (10MP) is very similar but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and E70 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor size.

Pentax 17 Pre-Orders Outperform Expectations by a Landslide

The E-P1 was released 7 months later than the E70 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax E70 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the E-P1 scores versus the E70 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-P1 & Pentax Optio E70. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-P1 Gallery & Pentax E70 Gallery.

If you're looking to lug around your camera, you will have to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus E-P1 provides external measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") with a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) whilst the Pentax E70 has sizing of 94mm x 61mm x 26mm (3.7" x 2.4" x 1.0") and a weight of 175 grams (0.39 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-P1 vs Pentax E70 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is the front view sizing comparison of the E-P1 against the E70.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-P1 and E70 is 86 and 94 respectively.

Sometimes, its hard to envision the difference between sensor measurements simply by going over specs. The photograph here will offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P1 and E70.

All in all, each of these cameras posses different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The E-P1 featuring a larger sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field easier and the Olympus E-P1 will offer extra detail as a result of its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will help you crop images somewhat more aggressively. The younger E-P1 is going to have an edge when it comes to sensor innovation.