Olympus E-PL1s vs Pentax W90

Below is a thorough analysis of the Olympus E-PL1s versus Pentax W90, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Waterproof by rivals Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the E-PL1s (12MP) and the W90 (12MP) is fairly comparable but the E-PL1s (Four Thirds) and W90 (1/2.3") come with totally different sensor dimensions.

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The E-PL1s was brought out 9 months later than the W90 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL1s being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax W90 being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a thorough comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the E-PL1s scores vs the W90 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL1s and Pentax Optio W90. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL1s Gallery and Pentax W90 Gallery.

If you're intending to lug around your camera often, you will need to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL1s has got exterior dimensions of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) and the Pentax W90 has specifications of 108mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.3" x 2.3" x 1.0") having a weight of 164 grams (0.36 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL1s versus Pentax W90 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you use during that time. Underneath is the front view sizing comparison of the E-PL1s versus the W90.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL1s and W90 is 86 and 94 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is tough to visualise the contrast in sensor measurements simply by checking out technical specs. The photograph here will give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL1s and W90.

As you have seen, each of the cameras offer the same exact MP but not the same sensor measurements. The E-PL1s has the larger sensor which will make getting shallow depth of field less difficult. The newer E-PL1s is going to have an advantage in sensor tech.