Olympus E-P2 vs Sony NEX-5R

Following is a complete review of the Olympus E-P2 versus Sony NEX-5R, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. There exists a noticeable gap between the image resolutions of the E-P2 (12MP) and NEX-5R (16MP) and the E-P2 (Four Thirds) and NEX-5R (APS-C) possess different sensor sizes.

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The E-P2 was revealed 3 years prior to the NEX-5R which is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting in to a in-depth comparison, below is a concise summary of how the E-P2 scores against the NEX-5R in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

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

If you're looking to carry around your camera regularly, you will have to think about its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-P2 features exterior dimensions of 121mm x 70mm x 36mm (4.8" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 355 grams (0.78 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-5R has dimensions of 111mm x 59mm x 39mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") having a weight of 276 grams (0.61 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-P2 versus Sony NEX-5R in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you choose at the time. Below is the front view size comparison of the E-P2 and the NEX-5R.

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

Normally, it is difficult to imagine the gap between sensor sizes only by reading through a spec sheet. The picture below will help give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the E-P2 and NEX-5R.

Clearly, both of these cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The E-P2 having a tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallower depth of field tougher and the Sony NEX-5R will give more detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop shots a little more aggressively. The more aged E-P2 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.