Olympus E-P3 vs Sony RX100 V: A Hands-On Camera Showdown for Enthusiasts and Pros

When nostalgia for classic styling, compact convenience, and respectable image quality pull at your camera-shopping heartstrings, it’s easy to find yourself gazing wistfully at earlier models like the Olympus PEN E-P3 or marveling at the compact power of the Sony RX100 V. These two cameras - one an entry-level mirrorless from Olympus and the other a large sensor premium compact from Sony - sit on opposite ends of the mirrorless & compact spectrum but have both enchanted photographers over the last decade.

Having personally tested and compared thousands of cameras over 15 years, I’m here to break down how these two cameras measure up across essential photography disciplines, real-world handling, and technical prowess. Whether you’re an enthusiast seeking a capable travel companion or a pro looking for a pocketable backup, this in-depth, practical analysis will guide you toward the best fit.

Let’s start by appreciating these two contenders side-by-side before diving into the details:

You'll immediately notice that while the Olympus E-P3 sports a rangefinder-style mirrorless body, the Sony RX100 V packs incredible technology into an ultra-compact, pocket-sized design.

First Impressions and Build: Handling Matters More Than You Think

Right out of the gate, the Olympus PEN E-P3 feels like a little classic camera with its retro rangefinder-inspired styling. Its Micro Four Thirds (MFT) body gives you the flexibility of interchangeable lenses, a major advantage for landscape, wildlife, macro, and professional work. Weighing in at about 369g and measuring 122x69x34mm, it fits nicely in medium-sized bags but won’t hide in your coat pocket.

In contrast, the Sony RX100 V boasts a pure pocket-sized large sensor compact design. At just 299g and 102x58x41mm, it’s arguably as close to a “point-and-shoot” form factor as you can get while still delivering high-end performance. The solid metal body feels sturdy but slimmer ergonomics mean you’ll likely need smaller fingers or a good grip strap to avoid fumbling.

Ergonomically, the Olympus’ dedicated mode dials and customizable buttons provide intuitive physical controls great for on-the-fly adjustments, whereas the RX100 V relies more heavily on menus and smaller clubs for thumbs. The difference is stark but comes down to your style - do you want tactile buttons or pocket portability?

You can see the E-P3’s traditional dials vs. the RX100 V’s minimal buttons and pop-up electronic viewfinder on top.

Sensor and Image Quality: Micro Four Thirds vs 1-Inch BSI-CMOS

At the heart of image-making, sensor technology drives what you’ll capture. Olympus’s E-P3 packs a 12MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor sized at 17.3x13mm, measuring about 225 mm². While not huge by today’s standards, it delivers a respectable base for enthusiasts wanting decent resolution and color depth.

Sony’s RX100 V, on the other hand, sports a 1-inch 20MP stacked BSI-CMOS sensor (13.2x8.8mm, roughly 116 mm²), bringing excellent image quality for a compact camera thanks to Sony’s advanced sensor stack and processing.

How does this translate to real-world images? The E-P3’s Four Thirds sensor area nearly doubles that of the RX100 V, which often equates to improved noise control and dynamic range, especially in low light scenarios. However, Sony’s sensor benefits from a modern backside illumination design improving light sensitivity and faster readouts - useful for high-speed autofocus and video.

Larger Four Thirds sensor vs newer 1" BSI-CMOS showcase different technological eras and design goals.

When tested side-by-side in daylight landscapes, the RX100 V shows more fine detail due to 20MP resolution and strong image processing. However, Olympus wins subtle color rendition and a slightly wider dynamic range, lending to punchier skies and smoother tonal gradations in highlights and shadows.

In low light, the E-P3’s sensor noise starts creeping in past ISO 1600, while Sony handles up to ISO 3200 with cleaner results, reflecting the benefits of sensor design and processing age.

For professionals concerned with image quality and editing flexibility, both offer RAW formats, but Olympus files reveal a slightly wider latitude in color depth, especially useful for portrait skin tone retouching.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed vs Precision

Autofocus (AF) is a battleground where these cameras differ drastically due to their design vintages and intended use. The Olympus E-P3 offers 35 contrast-detection AF points with face detection and continuous autofocus modes. While respectable for 2011, it struggles with moving subjects and low light, resulting in occasional hunting and slower lock times.

Sony RX100 V, released five years later, features 315 AF points combining phase-detection and contrast-detection behind the scenes, enabling lightning-fast autofocus acquisition, excellent continuous tracking, and better accuracy on complex scenes and sports.

Burst shooting speeds are another differential. The E-P3’s modest 3fps can frustrate action photographers, whereas the RX100 V delivers an impressive 24fps at full resolution using an electronic shutter. The difference is night and day for shooting wildlife, sports, or spontaneous street photography moments.

LCD and Viewfinder Usability: What You See Is What You Get

The Olympus E-P3 sports a fixed 3-inch OLED screen with a 614k-dot resolution and anti-fingerprint coating. The touch-enabled display makes focusing and menu navigation intuitive but the fixed angle can hamper awkward shooting positions.

The Sony RX100 V shines here with a 3-inch tilting screen at 1229k-dot resolution offering more flexibility for low or high-angle shots. It lacks touchscreen, but the physical buttons compensate gracefully.

Electronic viewfinders (EVF) differ drastically: Olympus leaves viewing optional via an add-on at a relatively low resolution, while Sony boasts a built-in high-resolution 2.36M-dot EVF with 100% coverage and comfortable magnification - indispensable in bright outdoor conditions.

Note the difference in resolutions and tilt functionality: The RX100 V’s screen helps with versatile shooting, while the E-P3’s touchscreen eases focus control.

Lens Ecosystem and Versatility: Interchangeable Power vs Fixed Convenience

If interchangeable lenses are your thing, Olympus has the clear advantage. The E-P3 is a Micro Four Thirds mount camera compatible with over 100 lenses - from classic primes to professional zooms, including great macro and telephoto lenses perfect for wildlife and studio work.

Sony’s RX100 V comes with a fixed 24-70mm f/1.8-2.8 zoom lens, offering excellent image quality and bright optics for a compact camera, but limited reach compared to Olympus. While the lens excels in portrait and travel uses, it’s no match for the reach of a proper telephoto or the specialty of macro glass.

Weather Sealing and Build Toughness: Not Built for the Wild

Neither camera sports environmental sealing or ruggedness, which may deter serious outdoor professionals. Both require careful handling in damp or dusty conditions, so investing in protective gear is wise if you shoot in challenging environments.

Battery Life and Storage: Practicalities You Shouldn’t Ignore

The Olympus E-P3 offers about 330 shots per battery charge with its BLS-5 pack, edging out the Sony RX100 V’s roughly 220 shots using its NP-BX1 battery. In extended fieldwork or vacation trips, the E-P3’s extra juice may save you from carrying multiples.

Both accept SD cards (Olympus supports SD/SDHC/SDXC; Sony adds Memory Stick support), but E-P3’s USB 2.0 and no wireless connectivity feels dated compared to the RX100 V’s built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for easy image transfer - great for social media junkies or busy pros.

Video Capabilities: Then and Now

While shooting video might not be your first priority in either, it’s worth mentioning capabilities. The Olympus E-P3 maxes out at Full HD 1080p at 60fps in AVCHD and Motion JPEG formats, decent for basic use but with no microphone input or advanced codecs.

Sony RX100 V jumps ahead with 4K UHD video at 30p and up to 100 Mbps bitrate in the efficient XAVC S codec, superior stabilization, and better slow-motion options. Although no mic input, its video quality and speedy autofocus make it surprisingly versatile for casual video creators.

How They Perform Across Photography Genres: A Closer Look

Olympus E P3 front Olympus E P3 screen back Sony RX100 V front Sony RX100 V screen back

Portrait Photography

Olympus E-P3’s MFT sensor and 4:3 aspect ratio align nicely with flattering skin tone reproduction. Combined with a large selection of fast primes capable of creamy bokeh, it offers a dreamy portrait experience - despite limited eye autofocus (none in E-P3).

Sony RX100 V provides sharp images and good subject separation at f/1.8 but due to smaller sensor size, background blur is less pronounced. However, face detection autofocus is fast and reliable, a plus for casual portraiture or instant snaps.

Landscape Photography

Olympus’s larger sensor, native dynamic range, and excellent color depth bring richer landscapes with superior tonal gradations. The interchangeable lens support is indispensable for wide-angle and super sharp primes.

Sony’s RX100 V can capture stunning landscapes with good detail and contrast but limited wide-angle reach and smaller sensor area constrain ultimate image quality.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

The RX100 V’s blazing 24fps burst and advanced AF tracking make it a surprisingly adept compact for wildlife or fast sports at close range, though zoom reach is limiting. Olympus’s slower 3fps and contrast detection autofocus are inadequate here unless paired with fast telephoto lenses, and even then AF tracking lags.

Street Photography

RX100 V is the discreet, pocketable champ for street shooters who need lightning-fast AF and quiet operation. The E-P3 is bulkier and louder - a consideration in candid street scenarios.

Macro Photography

E-P3 wins with lens interchange options offering high magnifications and precise manual focus rings. RX100 V’s 5cm macro capability is handy but not as versatile or sharp.

Night and Astro Photography

Olympus’s superior dynamic range and color depth gives it an edge in astro shots and nightscapes, albeit hampered by sensor noise past ISO 1600. Sony’s high ISO handling is cleaner but vivid color rendition is less.

Video

As noted, Sony’s 4K UHD and advanced AF modes make it a more compelling option for either casual or enthusiast video shooters.

Travel Photography

RX100 V’s small size, tilting screen, and fast zoom suit travelers who want quick shots with minimal gear. The E-P3, while carryable, requires lens swaps and extra weight - better for planned photo trips.

Professional Work

For pros requiring RAW files, tethering, and lens options, Olympus remains a better choice. Sony’s RX100 V is a powerful pocketable complement or backup but not a primary pro tool.

Pros and Cons Breakdown

Olympus PEN E-P3 Pros:

• Interchangeable lenses (highly versatile)
• Larger Four Thirds sensor with good color depth and dynamic range
• Intuitive tactile controls and touchscreen
• Longer battery life
• Effective optical image stabilization

Olympus PEN E-P3 Cons:

• Slow autofocus, especially in low light or action
• Modest burst rate (3fps)
• No built-in electronic viewfinder (optional accessory)
• No wireless connectivity
• Older sensor technology

Sony RX100 V Pros:

• Fast and accurate hybrid autofocus (315 points)
• High burst shooting speed (24fps)
• Pocket-size portability
• Built-in high-res EVF and tilting screen
• 4K UHD video with superior codec
• Built-in Wi-Fi and NFC for connectivity

Sony RX100 V Cons:

• Fixed lens limits creative flexibility
• Smaller sensor area means less background blur and dynamic range
• Shorter battery life
• No touchscreen
• No microphone input for video

Who Should Choose Which? Tailored Recommendations

If you are a serious enthusiast or professional who values image quality, wider lens options, and tactile control for portraits, landscapes, and studio work - and don’t mind a bit more bulk - the Olympus PEN E-P3 remains a solid budget pick for vintage styling combined with modern features.

Conversely, if you want a compact everyday camera, crave superfast autofocus, shoot lots of street or travel photography on the fly, and appreciate having 4K video and wireless transfers, the Sony RX100 V delivers cutting-edge performance in tiny packaging.

Budget-wise, the Olympus can often be had for less on the used market, making it an enticing entry-level option for creative growth with lenses. The RX100 V typically commands a premium reflecting its technology and portability, suitable if convenience trumps ultimate image quality.

Final Thoughts From My Shooting Bag

Cameras are tools, not trophies. I’ve cherished moments capturing landscapes with the Olympus E-P3’s classics primes, luxuriated in the smooth skin tones and deliberate manual focus, and relished the freedom to swap lenses as the day demanded.

Yet, when urban life beckons or fast wildlife snaps are needed, the Sony RX100 V’s instant focus lock and near-pocket footprint can’t be beat. Its 4K video brings added modern flair for hybrid shooters.

Both cameras have trade-offs stemming from their design eras and philosophies. The Olympus PEN E-P3 champions versatility and image quality in a rangefinder-style mirrorless. The Sony RX100 V redefines “small but mighty” in a compact.

Choosing between them boils down to priority: expandable creative flexibility and classic ergonomics vs. unbelievably compact speed and convenience.

In the end, both deserve a place in the hearts of photographers who understand value, real-world performance, and the joy of making pictures with gear that suits their style.

Happy shooting!

If you want me to help you pick lenses for the Olympus or tips for maximizing the RX100 V’s autofocus tricks, just holler - I’ve tested lenses and menus on both extensively. But for now, your next camera adventure starts here, armed with practical facts and the unvarnished truth.

Safe travels and sharp focus, wherever your photography takes you!

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