Olympus E-P3 vs Olympus E-PL9

Let's take a more detailed look at the Olympus E-P3 vs Olympus E-PL9, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras and they are both offered by Olympus. There exists a large gap among the sensor resolutions of the E-P3 (12MP) and E-PL9 (16MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor measurements (Four Thirds).

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The E-P3 was released 7 years prior to the E-PL9 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go right into a more detailed comparison, here is a short highlight of how the E-P3 matches up versus the E-PL9 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-P3 & Olympus PEN E-PL9. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-P3 Gallery & Olympus E-PL9 Gallery.

If you're going to carry around your camera, you should take into account its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-P3 has exterior measurements of 122mm x 69mm x 34mm (4.8" x 2.7" x 1.3") and a weight of 369 grams (0.81 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-PL9 has proportions of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") and a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-P3 vs Olympus E-PL9 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Below is a front view measurement comparison of the E-P3 vs the E-PL9.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-P3 and E-PL9 is 86 and 85 respectively.

Quite often, it can be hard to picture the contrast in sensor sizes simply by going through specs. The picture here will provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P3 and E-PL9.

All in all, both of the cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit different resolution. You can expect the Olympus E-PL9 to provide extra detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop shots a bit more aggressively. The more aged E-P3 will be behind in sensor tech.