Olympus E-P2 vs Sony a5100

Its time to take a closer look at the Olympus E-P2 versus Sony a5100, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Olympus and Sony. There exists a big gap among the image resolutions of the E-P2 (12MP) and a5100 (24MP) and the E-P2 (Four Thirds) and a5100 (APS-C) provide different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-P2 was manufactured 5 years before the a5100 and that is a fairly big gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving into a more detailed comparison, here is a quick synopsis of how the E-P2 scores against the a5100 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-P2 and Sony Alpha a5100. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-P2 Gallery and Sony a5100 Gallery.

For those who are aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you'll have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-P2 offers external 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 a5100 has proportions of 110mm x 63mm x 36mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 283 grams (0.62 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-P2 versus Sony a5100 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you select at that time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the E-P2 against the a5100.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-P2 and a5100 is 86 and 89 respectively.

Typically, it can be difficult to imagine the gap in sensor measurements only by viewing a spec sheet. The visual below will help give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P2 and a5100.

Clearly, both of those cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The E-P2 featuring a smaller sensor is going to make shooting bokeh more difficult and the Sony a5100 will render greater detail due to its extra 12MP. Higher resolution will let you crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The older E-P2 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.