Olympus E-PL1 vs Samsung NX2000

Below, we are evaluating the Olympus E-PL1 and Samsung NX2000, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Olympus and Samsung. There exists a big gap between the sensor resolutions of the E-PL1 (12MP) and NX2000 (20MP) and the E-PL1 (Four Thirds) and NX2000 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizing.

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The E-PL1 was revealed 4 years before the NX2000 which is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief summation of how the E-PL1 scores versus the NX2000 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL1 and Samsung NX2000. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery and Samsung NX2000 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry around your camera, you need to think about its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL1 provides outer dimensions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") having a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) and the Samsung NX2000 has specifications of 119mm x 65mm x 36mm (4.7" x 2.6" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 228 grams (0.50 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-PL1 and Samsung NX2000 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you are using during that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the E-PL1 and the NX2000.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL1 and NX2000 is 86 and 89 respectively.

More often than not, its difficult to see the contrast between sensor sizes purely by looking at a spec sheet. The picture below will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL1 and NX2000.

Clearly, both of these cameras posses different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-PL1 using its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower DOF harder and the Samsung NX2000 will give you greater detail because of its extra 8 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The more aged E-PL1 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.