Olympus E-PL1 vs Sony RX1

The following is a comprehensive comparison of the Olympus E-PL1 versus Sony RX1, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Large Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. There is a substantial difference among the resolutions of the E-PL1 (12MP) and RX1 (24MP) and the E-PL1 (Four Thirds) and RX1 (Full frame) boast different sensor sizing.

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The E-PL1 was introduced 3 years earlier than the RX1 which is a fairly big difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony RX1 being a Large Sensor Compact camera.

Before we go right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the E-PL1 grades vs the RX1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL1 & Sony Cyber-shot DSC-RX1. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery & Sony RX1 Gallery.

In case you're planning to travel with your camera, you will need to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PL1 has exterior dimensions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") along with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) whilst the Sony RX1 has sizing of 113mm x 65mm x 70mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 2.8") having a weight of 482 grams (1.06 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-PL1 versus Sony RX1 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are utilising at the time. Here is a front view proportions comparison of the E-PL1 and the RX1.

Considering size and weight, the portability score of the E-PL1 and RX1 is 86 and 79 respectively.

Oftentimes, its tough to visualize the difference in sensor dimensions purely by seeing technical specs. The pic below might give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL1 and RX1.

As you can tell, the two cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor dimensions. The E-PL1 having a smaller sensor is going to make achieving bokeh harder and the Sony RX1 will show greater detail using its extra 12 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The more aged E-PL1 will be disadvantaged in sensor tech.