Olympus E-PL1 vs Panasonic G2

Here, we will be analyzing the Olympus E-PL1 versus Panasonic G2, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PL1 (12MP) and the G2 (12MP) is pretty well matched and both cameras boast the identical sensor sizes (Four Thirds).

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The E-PL1 was announced at a similar time to the G2 so they are of a similar generation. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic G2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a detailed comparison, here is a quick view of how the E-PL1 grades vs the G2 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G2. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery and Panasonic G2 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry around your camera frequently, you'll have to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL1 provides outer 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 Panasonic G2 has dimensions of 124mm x 84mm x 74mm (4.9" x 3.3" x 2.9") with a weight of 428 grams (0.94 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PL1 versus Panasonic G2 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you use at the time. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the E-PL1 compared to the G2.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability score of the E-PL1 and G2 is 86 and 72 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to visualise the contrast between sensor sizes only by reading through a spec sheet. The image underneath might give you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL1 and G2.

As you can see, both of the cameras feature the identical sensor size and the same exact resolution so you should expect similar quality of images but you have to take the release date of the products into consideration.