Olympus E-PL1 vs Samsung NX2000: A Detailed Mirrorless Camera Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

Choosing a mirrorless camera involves balancing sensor performance, ergonomics, autofocus, and feature sets against your specific photographic needs and budget. The Olympus PEN E-PL1 and Samsung NX2000, both entry-level mirrorless cameras from reputable brands, target enthusiasts stepping up from compact cameras or DSLRs. While sharing a similar rangefinder-style body design and beginner-friendly features, these models cater to different priorities shaped by their sensor technology, system ecosystems, and video capabilities.

After extensively testing both cameras across shooting disciplines and practical conditions, we’re breaking down their strengths, weaknesses, and real-world usability. Our hands-on evaluation draws from controlled lab tests, field shoots, and side-by-side experience to help you find the perfect fit for your photographic journey.

Quick Specs Overview: Olympus E-PL1 and Samsung NX2000

Handling and Ergonomics: Comfort Meets Control

For any camera, the tactile experience defines your shooting style and enjoyment.

The Olympus E-PL1 offers a slightly more substantial grip and body, measuring 115x72x42 mm and weighing 334g. Its rangefinder design incorporates a minimalistic button layout without a built-in viewfinder, relying on the 2.7-inch fixed, non-touch HyperCrystal LCD that sits on the back. The screen resolution is modest, with 230k dots, making fine details harder to judge when reviewing images in bright conditions. The inclusion of sensor-based image stabilization is a considerable plus, reducing handheld shake for sharper images.

The Samsung NX2000 shaves off significant bulk and weight, at 119x65x36 mm and only 228g. While it lacks a viewfinder as well, the larger 3.7-inch touchscreen LCD with a high resolution of 1152k dots vastly improves live view composition and menu navigation. The touchscreen responsiveness is smooth and intuitive, a definite advantage for newcomers and those migrating from smartphone photography.

From the top-down perspective, the E-PL1 sports a traditional dial and simple shutter release dominated by analog controls, while the NX2000’s top-layout is streamlined, emphasizing compactness and digital menu access through the touchscreen.

Ergonomic Verdict:

• Choose the Olympus E-PL1 if you prioritize sturdier build and physical control dials.
• Opt for the Samsung NX2000 if you want an ultra-light, touchscreen interface ideal for casual shoots and quick adjustments on the fly.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Four Thirds vs APS-C

At the core of any camera is its sensor, shaping image quality and low-light behavior.

The E-PL1 employs a 12MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor measuring 17.3x13 mm, offering a crop factor of about 2.1x. This sensor is smaller than the NX2000’s APS-C size but has the advantage of in-body stabilization, which helps mitigate camera shake regardless of the lens attached. The slightly older sensor design, coupled with a modest resolution, means lower noise control at higher ISOs.

In contrast, the NX2000 utilizes a larger APS-C CMOS sensor (23.5x15.7 mm) with higher resolution - 20 megapixels - offering better detail retention and dynamic range. The sensor excels in handling shadows and highlights, providing a broader 12.3 EV of dynamic range compared to the E-PL1’s 10.1 EV, which can be crucial for landscape and portrait work where highlight preservation is key.

The NX2000's improved low-light ISO rating (908 vs Olympus’ 487 in DxOMark testing) results in less noise and cleaner images at beyond ISO 1600, giving you more flexibility shooting indoors or at night.

In-Field Image Comparison:

Olympus E PL1 front Olympus E PL1 screen back Samsung NX2000 screen back

Image Quality Summary:

Autofocus Systems: Precision and Speed

When it comes to autofocus, both cameras rely on contrast-detection AF, a common choice for early mirrorless systems before hybrid or phase-detection AF became the norm.

• The Olympus E-PL1 offers 11 focus points, face detection, and basic AF-tracking. The system delivers respectable focusing accuracy but can feel sluggish in low contrast or fast motion situations.

• The Samsung NX2000 improves on this with 21 AF points, also enhanced by face detection and continuous AF tracking. Its autofocus is noticeably faster and more responsive during burst shooting or moving subjects, thanks in part to more advanced processing.

For wildlife and sports photography, the faster burst rate of the NX2000 (8 fps vs 3 fps on the E-PL1) combined with its superior autofocus lends itself to better capturing action sequences without missing critical moments.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance

Neither camera is weather-sealed. Both lack dustproof, shockproof, freezeproof, or crushproof certifications, which limits their robustness in adverse climates or harsh field conditions.

• Olympus E-PL1: An all-plastic body with solid build quality for its era, but prone to wear under rough daily use.

• Samsung NX2000: Lightweight construction focused more on portability than durability.

If you frequently shoot outdoors or travel in varied conditions, pairing either body with protective gear or external accessories is advisable.

Viewing Experience: Screens and EVFs

Both cameras omit built-in electronic viewfinders - a potential downside for photographers who prefer eye-level framing, especially in bright daylight.

• The E-PL1’s 2.7-inch screen is smaller and less sharp, at 230k dots, making manual focus confirmation and menu navigation less fluid.

• The NX2000’s 3.7-inch touchscreen LCD is a significant upgrade in size and pixel density (1152k dots), with intuitive focus selection and control customization.

For street and travel photography, the NX2000’s screen is a definite advantage, enabling quick framing and reviewing without awkward angle compromises.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

• Olympus E-PL1: Benefits from the mature Micro Four Thirds ecosystem with over 100 native lenses available from Olympus, Panasonic, and third-party manufacturers. This includes fast primes, telephotos, macro lenses, and compact zooms, so you have access to versatile optics spanning every genre.

• Samsung NX2000: Compatible with Samsung NX mount lenses, limited to approximately 32 lenses. This narrower range restricts options significantly, especially if you want specialized glass or third-party alternatives.

If you anticipate growing your kit or striving for professional-grade optics, Olympus offers a better long-term investment.

Battery Life and Storage Options

• The E-PL1 uses the BLS-1 battery, rated for about 290 shots per charge - average for its class. Storage is via standard SD/SDHC cards.

• The NX2000 slightly edges ahead with a BP1130 battery capable of around 340 shots. It stores images on MicroSD/MicroSDHC/MicroSDXC cards, which are smaller but sometimes pricier or slower than standard SD cards.

Longer battery life on the NX2000 makes it better suited to extended shoots or travel days when charging access is limited.

Video Capabilities: HD Footage Comparison

While neither camera targets videographers heavily, the NX2000 offers notably better specs:

If video is a priority, the NX2000’s Full HD recording and codec efficiency (H.264 instead of MJPEG) produce better quality footage with smaller file sizes, useful for editing and vlog workflows.

Real-World Photography Use Cases: Matching Cameras to Genres

Let’s dive into how these cameras perform across major photography disciplines based on our tests.

Overall Performance Summary and Ratings

After scoring both cameras on image quality, autofocus, ergonomics, video, and value, here is our synthesis.

Who Should Choose Olympus E-PL1?

• You want a budget-friendly first mirrorless camera with classic handling and extensive lens choices.
• You appreciate in-body image stabilization for handheld low-light work.
• You primarily do portrait, travel, and casual landscape photography without the need for fast autofocus or advanced video.
• You prefer tactile controls and a solid feel, even at the cost of a smaller, less sharp LCD screen.
• You are ready to accept older technology for a highly accessible entry point, possibly as a second camera body.

Who Should Consider Samsung NX2000?

• You desire sharper images with a larger, higher resolution APS-C sensor.
• Video is important, and you want Full HD shooting in efficient codecs.
• You value portability and touchscreen ease for travel, street, or family photography.
• Fast autofocus and higher continuous shooting rate matter for action and wildlife capture.
• You have willingness to compromise on lens selection knowing you may need adaptors or future upgrades.

Final Thoughts: Which Mirrorless Model Fits Your Creative Path?

Both the Olympus E-PL1 and Samsung NX2000 carry strengths tailored to distinct user profiles two or more years apart in release dates. If you’re stepping into mirrorless on a tight budget, love retro styling, and want access to one of the richest lens lineups, the Olympus E-PL1 remains a solid choice. Its in-body stabilization and handling comfort offset sensor limitations.

Conversely, if image resolution, video capabilities, and faster responsiveness drive your needs, and you don’t mind paying a premium for compactness, the Samsung NX2000 excels as a modern, versatile shooter - especially for those coming from smartphones or compact cameras craving an upgrade.

Getting Started: Tips for Your Olympus E-PL1 or Samsung NX2000 Journey

• Try before you buy: Hands-on experience with both models can reveal which ergonomics and menus suit your style.
• Explore lens options: Check out Micro Four Thirds lenses for Olympus; for Samsung, research compatible primes and zooms.
• Accessories matter: Consider carrying straps, extra batteries, and protective cases to enhance filming or photo sessions.
• Practice autofocus modes: Especially face detection and continuous AF to maximize your capture success in dynamic situations.
• Leverage manual modes: Both cameras offer manual exposure controls to deepen your photographic skills.

Embark on your creative journey equipped with insights to make an informed choice. Whether capturing fleeting street moments or crafting timeless portraits, the right camera unlocks your vision - hop aboard with confidence!