Olympus E-PL1 vs Panasonic GF2

On this page, we are looking at the Olympus E-PL1 vs Panasonic GF2, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by companies Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-PL1 (12MP) and the GF2 (12MP) is fairly comparable and both cameras provide the same sensor sizing (Four Thirds).

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The E-PL1 was announced 9 months earlier than the GF2 and they are of a similar generation. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting right into a in depth comparison, here is a concise view of how the E-PL1 scores vs the GF2 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery and Panasonic GF2 Gallery.

If you are going to travel with your camera, you'll need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PL1 comes with outer dimensions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) and the Panasonic GF2 has measurements of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") having a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PL1 vs Panasonic GF2 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are working with at that time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the E-PL1 vs the GF2.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL1 and GF2 is 86 and 88 respectively.

Normally, it can be tough to visualise the difference in sensor dimensions merely by checking out a spec sheet. The pic below will help provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL1 and GF2.

As you can see, the two cameras have the same sensor dimensions and the same MP and you should expect comparable quality of photos but you might want to consider the production date of the cameras into account. The more aged E-PL1 will be behind in sensor innovation.