Olympus E-P2 vs Panasonic GF3

The following is a thorough analysis of the Olympus E-P2 and Panasonic GF3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-P2 (12MP) and the GF3 (12MP) is fairly well matched and both cameras posses the identical sensor sizes (Four Thirds).

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The E-P2 was released 15 months before the GF3 making them a generation away from each other. Each of these cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the E-P2 matches up vs the GF3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-P2 Gallery and Panasonic GF3 Gallery.

For those who are intending to travel with your camera often, you need to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus E-P2 features 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) and the Panasonic GF3 has sizing of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") with a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-P2 and Panasonic GF3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have at that moment. Following is a front view scale comparison of the E-P2 compared to the GF3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the E-P2 and GF3 is 86 and 90 respectively.

Usually, it is very tough to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions just by checking technical specs. The image here might provide you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P2 and GF3.

As you have seen, both the cameras feature the identical sensor size and the same exact resolution therefore you should expect similar quality of files though you may want to take the production date of the products into consideration. The more aged E-P2 is going to be behind in sensor technology.