Olympus E-P2 vs Olympus VR-340

Here is a complete overview of the Olympus E-P2 and Olympus VR-340, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact and they are both designed by Olympus. There is a big difference between the sensor resolutions of the E-P2 (12MP) and VR-340 (16MP) and the E-P2 (Four Thirds) and VR-340 (1/2.3") possess different sensor sizing.

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The E-P2 was revealed 20 months earlier than the VR-340 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-P2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus VR-340 being a Compact camera.

Before we go straight into a detailed comparison, below is a simple summation of how the E-P2 grades against the VR-340 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-P2 and Olympus VR-340. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-P2 Gallery and Olympus VR-340 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera often, you will have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-P2 features exterior measurements 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 Olympus VR-340 has measurements of 96mm x 57mm x 19mm (3.8" x 2.2" x 0.7") and a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-P2 and Olympus VR-340 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have during that time. The following is the front view dimension comparison of the E-P2 versus the VR-340.

Looking at size and weight, the portability rating of the E-P2 and VR-340 is 86 and 96 respectively.

Generally, it can be difficult to imagine the difference between sensor sizing simply by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic here should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the E-P2 and VR-340.

Clearly, each of the cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-P2 having a larger sensor is going to make shooting bokeh simpler and the Olympus VR-340 will give more detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop images far more aggressively. The older E-P2 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.