Olympus E-PL1 vs Sony NEX-3

On this page, we are contrasting the Olympus E-PL1 vs Sony NEX-3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the E-PL1 (12MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is fairly similar but the E-PL1 (Four Thirds) and NEX-3 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor size.

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The E-PL1 was revealed very close to the NEX-3 so they are both of a similar age. Each of the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go into a in depth comparison, here is a quick highlight of how the E-PL1 scores versus the NEX-3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL1 & Sony Alpha NEX-3. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery & Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to lug around your camera frequently, you have to take into account its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PL1 provides exterior measurements of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-3 has sizing of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PL1 vs Sony NEX-3 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you choose during that time. Below is a front view scale comparison of the E-PL1 and the NEX-3.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL1 and NEX-3 is 86 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it's difficult to envision the gap between sensor measurements just by reviewing specs. The visual below will give you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL1 and NEX-3.

All in all, both of those cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The E-PL1 using its tinier sensor will make achieving shallow depth of field more difficult and the Sony NEX-3 will offer you more detail because of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos more aggressively.