Olympus E-P2 vs Sony NEX-5

Following is a in depth overview of the Olympus E-P2 vs Sony NEX-5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the E-P2 (12MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is relatively well matched but the E-P2 (Four Thirds) and NEX-5 (APS-C) have totally different sensor size.

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The E-P2 was brought out at a similar time to the NEX-5 so they are of a similar age. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the E-P2 scores versus the NEX-5 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-P2 & Sony Alpha NEX-5. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-P2 Gallery & Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to carry around your camera frequently, you will have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-P2 comes with outside measurements of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") having a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5 has measurements of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-P2 vs Sony NEX-5 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you have chosen at the time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the E-P2 against the NEX-5.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the E-P2 and NEX-5 is 86 and 89 respectively.

In many cases, it can be difficult to envision the gap between sensor sizes only by reading through technical specs. The image here should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P2 and NEX-5.

As you can tell, both of those cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The E-P2 due to its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult and the Sony NEX-5 will give extra detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also let you crop photographs more aggressively.