Olympus E-P2 vs Sony A230

Here, we are reviewing the Olympus E-P2 versus Sony A230, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the E-P2 (12MP) and the A230 (10MP) is fairly well matched but the E-P2 (Four Thirds) and A230 (APS-C) posses totally different sensor measurements.

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The E-P2 was launched 12 months later than the A230 and they are both of a similar age. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-P2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A230 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the E-P2 grades against the A230 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P2 & Sony Alpha DSLR-A230. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-P2 Gallery & Sony A230 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera often, you will have to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-P2 has outer 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) whilst the Sony A230 has measurements of 128mm x 97mm x 68mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.7") having a weight of 490 grams (1.08 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-P2 versus Sony A230 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are utilising during that time. Underneath is a front view measurements comparison of the E-P2 versus the A230.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability score of the E-P2 and A230 is 86 and 69 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to visualise the difference between sensor sizing just by looking at a spec sheet. The visual underneath will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P2 and A230.

As you can see, the 2 cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-P2 featuring a tinier sensor will make achieving bokeh tougher and the Olympus E-P2 will give greater detail utilizing its extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also make it easier to crop pics way more aggressively. The younger E-P2 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.