Olympus E-P2 vs Samsung NX3000

The following is a extended analysis of the Olympus E-P2 versus Samsung NX3000, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Olympus and Samsung. There exists a sizeable gap between the resolutions of the E-P2 (12MP) and NX3000 (20MP) and the E-P2 (Four Thirds) and NX3000 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-P2 was unveiled 5 years prior to the NX3000 which is quite a large gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick view of how the E-P2 grades against the NX3000 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-P2 and Samsung NX3000. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-P2 Gallery and Samsung NX3000 Gallery.

For those who are going to travel with your camera often, you have to take into account its weight and volume. The Olympus E-P2 offers physical 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 Samsung NX3000 has sizing of 117mm x 66mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.6" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-P2 versus Samsung NX3000 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are utilising at that time. Underneath is the front view sizing comparison of the E-P2 versus the NX3000.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-P2 and NX3000 is 86 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very tough to visualise the contrast between sensor dimensions only by reviewing specs. The image below may offer you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P2 and NX3000.

All in all, both cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The E-P2 with its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field trickier and the Samsung NX3000 will offer you extra detail having an extra 8MP. Higher resolution will allow you to crop pictures much more aggressively. The more aged E-P2 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.