Olympus E-P5 vs Panasonic L1

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Olympus E-P5 and Panasonic L1, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Advanced DSLR by brands Olympus and Panasonic. There is a significant difference between the sensor resolutions of the E-P5 (16MP) and L1 (7MP) but they enjoy the same exact sensor sizing (Four Thirds).

Photography Glossary

The E-P5 was released 6 years after the L1 which is quite a sizable gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-P5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic L1 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving in to a detailed comparison, below is a quick view of how the E-P5 matches up against the L1 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-P5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-L1. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-P5 Gallery and Panasonic L1 Gallery.

In case you're planning to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-P5 features outside 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 Panasonic L1 has proportions of 146mm x 87mm x 77mm (5.7" x 3.4" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 606 grams (1.34 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-P5 and Panasonic L1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you have at that moment. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the E-P5 vs the L1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the E-P5 and L1 is 85 and 65 respectively.

Usually, its tough to picture the contrast between sensor sizes just by reviewing technical specs. The pic below should give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P5 and L1.

As you can tell, both cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit different MP. You should expect the Olympus E-P5 to deliver more detail as a result of its extra 9MP. Higher resolution can also help you crop shots far more aggressively. The fresher E-P5 should have an advantage with regard to sensor innovation.