Olympus E-PL1 vs Pentax WG-1

Its time to take a closer look at the Olympus E-PL1 vs Pentax WG-1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Waterproof by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the E-PL1 (12MP) and the WG-1 (14MP) is pretty well matched but the E-PL1 (Four Thirds) and WG-1 (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL1 was manufactured 8 months earlier than the WG-1 and they are both of a similar generation. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax WG-1 being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a in-depth comparison, below is a short overview of how the E-PL1 matches up versus the WG-1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL1 and Pentax Optio WG-1. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery and Pentax WG-1 Gallery.

When you are aiming to lug around your camera frequently, you have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PL1 enjoys physical 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 Pentax WG-1 has measurements of 114mm x 58mm x 28mm (4.5" x 2.3" x 1.1") having a weight of 157 grams (0.35 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL1 vs Pentax WG-1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you have chosen at the time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the E-PL1 compared to the WG-1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL1 and WG-1 is 86 and 93 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor measurements only by looking at specs. The photograph underneath will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL1 and WG-1.

All in all, both of those cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The E-PL1 due to its bigger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field less difficult and the Pentax WG-1 will give you more detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop shots far more aggressively. The older E-PL1 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.