Olympus E-PL1 vs Pentax E85

Here, we are contrasting the Olympus E-PL1 and Pentax E85, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the E-PL1 (12MP) and the E85 (12MP) is fairly close but the E-PL1 (Four Thirds) and E85 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL1 was revealed 9 months after the E85 which means that they are of a similar generation. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax E85 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a concise synopsis of how the E-PL1 grades against the E85 for portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL1 and Pentax Optio E85. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery and Pentax E85 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera frequently, you will want to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PL1 enjoys outside measurements of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") along with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) and the Pentax E85 has sizing of 93mm x 58mm x 24mm (3.7" x 2.3" x 0.9") with a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus E-PL1 and Pentax E85 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are employing at that moment. Here is a front view dimension comparison of the E-PL1 against the E85.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL1 and E85 is 86 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to visualise the difference in sensor sizes simply by viewing specifications. The image below might give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL1 and E85.

Plainly, both of these cameras feature the identical megapixel count but not the same sensor sizes. The E-PL1 offers the larger sensor which should make achieving bokeh easier. The more recent E-PL1 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.