Olympus E-PL1 vs Olympus 1

In this write-up, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-PL1 vs Olympus 1, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are sold by Olympus. The sensor resolution of the E-PL1 (12MP) and the 1 (12MP) is relatively similar but the E-PL1 (Four Thirds) and 1 (1/1.7") use totally different sensor measurements.

Body cameras now worn by bakery staff to deter stealing

The E-PL1 was manufactured 4 years earlier than the 1 which is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus 1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a short summation of how the E-PL1 grades versus the 1 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL1 and Olympus Stylus 1. The entire galleries are available at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery and Olympus 1 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to travel with your camera often, you have to factor 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") accompanied by a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) and the Olympus 1 has dimensions of 116mm x 87mm x 57mm (4.6" x 3.4" x 2.2") having a weight of 402 grams (0.89 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PL1 vs Olympus 1 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with at that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the E-PL1 compared to the 1.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL1 and 1 is 86 and 79 respectively.

In many cases, it can be hard to visualise the gap between sensor dimensions only by going over specifications. The picture underneath might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL1 and 1.

To sum up, both the cameras offer the same exact resolution albeit not the same sensor dimensions. The E-PL1 uses the bigger sensor which should make getting shallower depth of field easier. The more aged E-PL1 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.