Olympus E-PL1 vs Panasonic GM1

Below is a detailed review of the Olympus E-PL1 versus Panasonic GM1, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a large gap between the resolutions of the E-PL1 (12MP) and GM1 (16MP) but both cameras boast the same sensor size (Four Thirds).

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The E-PL1 was announced 4 years prior to the GM1 and that is quite a serious difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving right into a more detailed comparison, here is a simple view of how the E-PL1 scores vs the GM1 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GM1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery & Panasonic GM1 Gallery.

In case you're intending to lug around your camera regularly, you will need to factor its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PL1 has outside measurements 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 Panasonic GM1 has measurements of 99mm x 55mm x 30mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") with a weight of 204 grams (0.45 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL1 versus Panasonic GM1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you choose during that time. Below is a front view over all size comparison of the E-PL1 versus the GM1.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL1 and GM1 is 86 and 93 respectively.

Typically, it is tough to picture the gap between sensor measurements just by reading through technical specs. The graphic here will give you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL1 and GM1.

As you can tell, the 2 cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You can expect the Panasonic GM1 to resolve more detail with its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will enable you to crop photographs more aggressively. The older E-PL1 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.