Olympus E-P5 vs Samsung NX300

Here is a thorough analysis of the Olympus E-P5 vs Samsung NX300, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Samsung. The image resolution of the E-P5 (16MP) and the NX300 (20MP) is relatively well matched but the E-P5 (Four Thirds) and NX300 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The E-P5 was revealed within a month of the NX300 and they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight to a complete comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the E-P5 matches up against the NX300 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-P5 and Samsung NX300. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-P5 Gallery and Samsung NX300 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera regularly, you will want to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-P5 provides outer dimensions of 122mm x 69mm x 37mm (4.8" x 2.7" x 1.5") and a weight of 420 grams (0.93 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX300 has measurements of 122mm x 64mm x 41mm (4.8" x 2.5" x 1.6") with a weight of 331 grams (0.73 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-P5 vs Samsung NX300 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are utilising at that time. Following is a front view dimension comparison of the E-P5 against the NX300.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-P5 and NX300 is 85 and 86 respectively.

Quite often, it is tough to see the gap between sensor sizing just by reading through technical specs. The graphic underneath should provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-P5 and NX300.

As you have seen, each of these cameras have different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The E-P5 with its tinier sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field tougher and the Samsung NX300 will give you more detail because of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop pictures a bit more aggressively.