Olympus E-PL2 vs Olympus E-PL8

Following is a thorough analysis of the Olympus E-PL2 and Olympus E-PL8, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras and both of them are sold by Olympus. There exists a sizable gap among the sensor resolutions of the E-PL2 (12MP) and E-PL8 (16MP) but both cameras have the same sensor dimensions (Four Thirds).

Photography Glossary

The E-PL2 was brought out 6 years earlier than the E-PL8 which is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving into a in depth comparison, here is a simple view of how the E-PL2 matches up versus the E-PL8 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL2 & Olympus PEN E-PL8. The entire galleries are available at Olympus E-PL2 Gallery & Olympus E-PL8 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera often, you are going to need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL2 enjoys outer measurements of 114mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") and a weight of 362 grams (0.80 lbs) whilst the Olympus E-PL8 has dimensions of 115mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 1.5") having a weight of 357 grams (0.79 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-PL2 and Olympus E-PL8 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are utilising at that time. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the E-PL2 against the E-PL8.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL2 and E-PL8 is 85 and 86 respectively.

Quite often, its tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizes only by looking through technical specs. The image below might provide you a far better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL2 and E-PL8.

As you have seen, both of those cameras provide the same sensor dimensions but not the same resolution. You can anticipate the Olympus E-PL8 to render more detail having its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will help you crop pics more aggressively. The more aged E-PL2 will be behind in sensor innovation.