Olympus E-PL1 vs Panasonic GF7

Below is a in depth comparison of the Olympus E-PL1 and Panasonic GF7, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a sizable difference among the image resolutions of the E-PL1 (12MP) and GF7 (16MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor sizing (Four Thirds).

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The E-PL1 was brought out 5 years before the GF7 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving into a thorough comparison, here is a simple summary of how the E-PL1 scores vs the GF7 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery & Panasonic GF7 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to lug around your camera regularly, you will have to factor its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL1 has outer 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) whilst the Panasonic GF7 has specifications of 107mm x 65mm x 33mm (4.2" x 2.6" x 1.3") having a weight of 266 grams (0.59 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PL1 and Panasonic GF7 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you choose during that time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the E-PL1 versus the GF7.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL1 and GF7 is 86 and 90 respectively.

Usually, it's tough to visualise the difference in sensor measurements only by checking out a spec sheet. The photograph below may offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL1 and GF7.

As you can see, both the cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same resolution. You can expect the Panasonic GF7 to produce extra detail having its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop photographs more aggressively. The older E-PL1 will be behind in sensor tech.