Olympus E-P5 vs Olympus E-PL5

In this article, we are analyzing the Olympus E-P5 and Olympus E-PL5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras and both of them are built by Olympus. The sensor resolution of the E-P5 (16MP) and the E-PL5 (16MP) is very comparable and they enjoy the same exact sensor sizes (Four Thirds).

Photography Glossary

The E-P5 was announced 13 months after the E-PL5 making the cameras a generation away from each other. Both of the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting through a in-depth comparison, below is a brief view of how the E-P5 grades against the E-PL5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-P5 and Olympus PEN E-PL5. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-P5 Gallery and Olympus E-PL5 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry around your camera frequently, you will need to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-P5 offers exterior dimensions of 122mm x 69mm x 37mm (4.8" x 2.7" x 1.5") with a weight of 420 grams (0.93 lbs) while the Olympus E-PL5 has proportions of 111mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.5") along with a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-P5 and Olympus E-PL5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have during that time. The following is the front view measurements comparison of the E-P5 against the E-PL5.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the E-P5 and E-PL5 is 85 and 88 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to see the gap in sensor sizes merely by checking out a spec sheet. The pic underneath will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P5 and E-PL5.

Clearly, both of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing and the same exact MP so you should expect comparable quality of files but you should really factor the production date of the cameras into account. The younger E-P5 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.