Olympus E-P3 vs Pentax K-r

In this write-up, we will be looking at the Olympus E-P3 and Pentax K-r, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by rivals Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the E-P3 (12MP) and the K-r (12MP) is pretty similar but the E-P3 (Four Thirds) and K-r (APS-C) enjoy different sensor measurements.

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The E-P3 was manufactured 6 months later than the K-r so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-P3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-r being a Compact SLR camera.

Before diving through a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple view of how the E-P3 grades against the K-r in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-P3 and Pentax K-r. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-P3 Gallery and Pentax K-r Gallery.

For those who are intending to lug around your camera regularly, you will want to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-P3 enjoys physical measurements of 122mm x 69mm x 34mm (4.8" x 2.7" x 1.3") with a weight of 369 grams (0.81 lbs) while the Pentax K-r has dimensions of 125mm x 97mm x 68mm (4.9" x 3.8" x 2.7") with a weight of 598 grams (1.32 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-P3 and Pentax K-r in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you have chosen during that time. Here is the front view over all size comparison of the E-P3 against the K-r.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the E-P3 and K-r is 86 and 67 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to picture the contrast between sensor measurements simply by reviewing technical specs. The photograph below may give you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-P3 and K-r.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras enjoy the same exact resolution albeit different sensor measurements. The E-P3 offers the tinier sensor which will make achieving bokeh more difficult.