Olympus E-P1 vs Samsung NX5

In this write-up, we are matching up the Olympus E-P1 vs Samsung NX5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Samsung. The sensor resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the NX5 (15MP) is very well matched but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and NX5 (APS-C) come with different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-P1 was launched 10 months earlier than the NX5 which means that they are both of a similar age. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-P1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving straight into a more detailed comparison, below is a short overview of how the E-P1 scores against the NX5 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-P1 & Samsung NX5. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-P1 Gallery & Samsung NX5 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera regularly, you are going to need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-P1 provides 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) and the Samsung NX5 has dimensions of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") accompanied by a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-P1 vs Samsung NX5 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you choose during that time. The following is the front view over all size comparison of the E-P1 and the NX5.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-P1 and NX5 is 86 and 80 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to picture the difference between sensor sizing only by checking a spec sheet. The photograph underneath will help give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P1 and NX5.

Clearly, both of those cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-P1 due to its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower DOF tougher and the Samsung NX5 will give you more detail utilizing its extra 3MP. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images a little more aggressively. The older E-P1 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.