Olympus E-P1 vs Samsung NX500

Below, we are evaluating the Olympus E-P1 vs Samsung NX500, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Samsung. There exists a substantial gap between the resolutions of the E-P1 (12MP) and NX500 (28MP) and the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and NX500 (APS-C) come with different sensor sizing.

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The E-P1 was introduced 6 years prior to the NX500 which is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving in to a complete comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the E-P1 grades versus the NX500 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P1 & Samsung NX500. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-P1 Gallery & Samsung NX500 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to travel with your camera often, you're going to have to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-P1 comes with exterior measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") having a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) while the Samsung NX500 has proportions of 120mm x 64mm x 43mm (4.7" x 2.5" x 1.7") along with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-P1 vs Samsung NX500 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have attached during that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the E-P1 against the NX500.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-P1 and NX500 is 86 and 87 respectively.

Typically, it's hard to imagine the difference between sensor dimensions simply by reading specs. The pic underneath should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P1 and NX500.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The E-P1 with its tinier sensor is going to make shooting bokeh tougher and the Samsung NX500 will offer greater detail using its extra 16 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop pics somewhat more aggressively. The more aged E-P1 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.