Olympus E-PL1 vs Olympus E-PL8

On this page, we are reviewing the Olympus E-PL1 vs Olympus E-PL8, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras and they are both offered by Olympus. There exists a crucial gap among the resolutions of the E-PL1 (12MP) and E-PL8 (16MP) but both cameras boast the same sensor measurements (Four Thirds).

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The E-PL1 was unveiled 7 years before the E-PL8 which is a fairly serious gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving straight to a thorough comparison, here is a quick view of how the E-PL1 scores vs the E-PL8 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PL1 and Olympus PEN E-PL8. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery and Olympus E-PL8 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry around your camera, you will want to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL1 has physical dimensions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") having a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) while the Olympus E-PL8 has dimensions of 115mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 1.5") and a weight of 357 grams (0.79 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PL1 vs Olympus E-PL8 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are employing at that time. The following is a front view scale comparison of the E-PL1 against the E-PL8.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL1 and E-PL8 is 86 and 86 respectively.

Typically, it's tough to imagine the difference in sensor sizes only by looking through a spec sheet. The image below will help provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL1 and E-PL8.

As you can see, the 2 cameras have the same sensor dimensions but different MP. You should expect to see the Olympus E-PL8 to provide you with greater detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will make it easier to crop pics a bit more aggressively. The more aged E-PL1 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.