Olympus E-P3 vs Pentax P70

In this write-up, we are evaluating the Olympus E-P3 vs Pentax P70, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Ultracompact by rivals Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the E-P3 (12MP) and the P70 (12MP) is fairly well matched but the E-P3 (Four Thirds) and P70 (1/2.3") enjoy different sensor dimensions.

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The E-P3 was manufactured 2 years later than the P70 and that is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-P3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax P70 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick overview of how the E-P3 matches up against the P70 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-P3 and Pentax Optio P70. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-P3 Gallery and Pentax P70 Gallery.

For those who are looking to carry your camera frequently, you have to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-P3 features outer dimensions of 122mm x 69mm x 34mm (4.8" x 2.7" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 369 grams (0.81 lbs) and the Pentax P70 has proportions of 97mm x 54mm x 22mm (3.8" x 2.1" x 0.9") along with a weight of 155 grams (0.34 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-P3 vs Pentax P70 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you choose at that time. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the E-P3 vs the P70.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the E-P3 and P70 is 86 and 95 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to visualize the contrast between sensor sizing merely by checking a spec sheet. The graphic here might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P3 and P70.

Clearly, both the cameras enjoy the same exact resolution but different sensor sizing. The E-P3 offers the larger sensor which will make obtaining shallower depth of field easier. The newer E-P3 should have an edge in sensor technology.