Olympus E-P1 vs Sony NEX-3

The following is a in depth analysis of the Olympus E-P1 vs Sony NEX-3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the E-P1 (12MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is very similar but the E-P1 (Four Thirds) and NEX-3 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor sizing.

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The E-P1 was launched 10 months before the NEX-3 and they are of a similar age. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief summary of how the E-P1 grades against the NEX-3 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-P1 & Sony Alpha NEX-3. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-P1 Gallery & Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

In case you're looking to travel with your camera often, you'll need to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus E-P1 offers outer 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) whilst the Sony NEX-3 has sizing of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-P1 vs Sony NEX-3 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have at that moment. The following is a front view sizing comparison of the E-P1 against the NEX-3.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-P1 and NEX-3 is 86 and 89 respectively.

Quite often, it is very hard to envision the gap between sensor dimensions just by reading technical specs. The pic underneath may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-P1 and NEX-3.

As you have seen, each of the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The E-P1 due to its tinier sensor will make achieving bokeh tougher and the Sony NEX-3 will offer you more detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also let you crop images more aggressively. The more aged E-P1 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor tech.