Olympus E-P2 vs Panasonic LX3

Here is a extended assessment of the Olympus E-P2 versus Panasonic LX3, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-P2 (12MP) and the LX3 (10MP) is fairly close but the E-P2 (Four Thirds) and LX3 (1/1.63") posses totally different sensor dimensions.

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The E-P2 was brought out 18 months later than the LX3 making them a generation apart from each other. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-P2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic LX3 being a Compact camera.

Before getting right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick overview of how the E-P2 matches up against the LX3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P2 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX3. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-P2 Gallery & Panasonic LX3 Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera frequently, you'll have to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus E-P2 has got exterior measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) and the Panasonic LX3 has specifications of 109mm x 60mm x 27mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-P2 versus Panasonic LX3 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you select during that time. Here is a front view measurements comparison of the E-P2 versus the LX3.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the E-P2 and LX3 is 86 and 91 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to envision the contrast in sensor sizing simply by looking through a spec sheet. The graphic here may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P2 and LX3.

As you can see, each of these cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-P2 featuring a larger sensor will make achieving shallow DOF less difficult and the Olympus E-P2 will result in more detail having its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will let you crop photos way more aggressively. The more modern E-P2 will have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.