Olympus E-PL2 vs Olympus SP-590 UZ: An In-Depth Comparative Review for Photography Enthusiasts

Selecting the right camera is a nuanced decision driven by your photography style, technical requirements, and budget. Today, I delve into a detailed comparison between two Olympus models that, at first glance, serve distinct user bases but both aim to deliver versatility and quality in their segments: the mirrorless Olympus PEN E-PL2 and the superzoom bridge camera Olympus SP-590 UZ. With over 15 years of hands-on experience testing cameras across all genres, I’ve found that evaluating such devices side by side reveals crucial insights beyond specs sheets.

Let’s walk through ergonomics, imaging performance, usability, and genre-specific potential, spotlighting strengths and compromises from an expert practical viewpoint. Expect precise technical analysis wrapped in an approachable narrative - this is not a mere spec recitation but a lived camera-oriented discourse.

Size and Handling: Mirrorless Elegance vs. Bridge Bulk

Starting with physicality, handling plays a pivotal role in daily shooting comfort and intuitive control. The Olympus PEN E-PL2 embodies the “rangefinder-style mirrorless” design - compact, light, and minimalistic - whereas the Olympus SP-590 UZ channels a bulkier “SLR-like” bridge camera form with its hefty superzoom lens assembly.

The E-PL2 measures roughly 114 x 72 x 42 mm and weighs in at 362 grams, with a slim profile that fits easily into camera bags or even larger jacket pockets. The SP-590 UZ is more substantial at 116 x 84 x 81 mm and 413 grams, its deep grip and extended lens barrel necessary for its massive zoom range. While neither camera features intensive weather sealing, the bridge model offers some environmental protection, an edge if you shoot outdoors in mildly adverse conditions.

Ergonomically, the E-PL2’s rangefinder styling caters to mirrorless users craving a low-profile, lightweight system compatible with the Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem. The SP-590 UZ’s DSLR-esque grip and control layout, on the other hand, make it feel more “traditional” for users accustomed to telephoto superzoom operation but limit pocketability considerably.

If you prize travel-friendliness and a camera that won’t weigh down your walkabouts, the E-PL2 wins hands-down here. But if an integrated zoom that spans over 26–676 mm (equivalent) appeals - particularly for everything-from-telephoto-in-one convenience - then the SP-590 UZ justifies the heft.

Design and Control Surfaces: Learning to Speak the Cameras’ Language

Peeking at the top panels and control layouts gives a clear sense of each camera’s user experience philosophy. Here, precision and intuitive button placement separate confident shooting from fumbling.

The Olympus E-PL2 sports a minimalist approach with a few dedicated buttons and dials, offering shutter priority, aperture priority, and manual exposure modes that cater well to enthusiasts advancing their craft. Its physical controls lean toward simplicity, but the lack of an integrated electronic viewfinder may deter those who rely heavily on eye-level framing during motion-heavy photography. Instead, users rely on the rear fixed 3-inch LCD with 460k-dot resolution.

In contrast, the SP-590 UZ packs a more traditional bridge camera layout, including an electronic viewfinder (although no resolution specified), more extensive zoom controls and a faster continuous shooting mode at 6 fps versus the E-PL2’s 3 fps. That said, its slower shutter range caps at 1/2000s compared to 1/4000s on the E-PL2, limiting opportunities to freeze ultra-fast motion.

The E-PL2’s control scheme will feel more satisfying for photographers who appreciate manual control, while the SP-590 UZ embraces a simplified interface leaning toward superzoom enthusiasts requiring quick shooting and zoom flexibility on the fly.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

When comparing cameras, sensor technology fundamentally defines image quality. From resolution to color depth, dynamic range, and noise control, sensor specs and real-world results dictate creative potential.

The PEN E-PL2’s Four Thirds CMOS sensor (measuring 17.3 x 13 mm) commands a larger imaging area than the SP-590 UZ’s tiny 1/2.3" CCD sensor (6.08 x 4.56 mm). This difference in sensor size translates directly to significant image quality divergence. The E-PL2 delivers a 12MP resolution with better low light sensitivity and wider dynamic range, crucial for retaining highlight and shadow details in landscape or portrait photography.

DXOMark scores (a respected authority in sensor evaluation) rate the E-PL2 with an overall score of 55, 21.4 bits color depth, 10.2 EV dynamic range, and lowlight ISO score around 573. The SP-590 UZ lacks DXOMark testing but based on sensor specifications and class, we expect notably lower performance, especially in dynamic range and noise at higher ISO settings.

Practically, this means the E-PL2 produces cleaner images with richer color gradations, especially critical for demanding genres like portrait, landscape, and night photography. The SP-590 UZ’s benefits lie in its built-in zoom lens convenience, but expect image softness and noise in dim conditions.

Viewing and Live Composing: LCD and Viewfinder Battle

Efficient composition tools enhance your ability to capture compelling images precisely and comfortably.

The E-PL2 offers a 3-inch 460k-dot HyperCrystal LCD with anti-reflective coating, a boon for shooting outdoors in bright sunlight. However, it is fixed (non-articulated), which could constrain shooting angles in macro or street photography.

On the other hand, the SP-590 UZ sports a smaller 2.7-inch LCD at 230k dots - noticeably less detailed - and an electronic viewfinder that bridges some of that gap, promising increased stability when shooting telephoto or in sunlight where LCD glare hampers clear vision.

Neither camera provides touchscreen or selfie modes, which is no surprise for their era but worth mentioning for modern photographers prioritizing these features.

If you value larger, higher-resolution displays with greater sensitivity for manual focus confirmation and image review, the E-PL2 offers a better platform despite the fixed position.

Autofocus and Speed Performance: Reactivity in Real Life

Your camera’s AF system and shooting speed often dictate whether you “get the shot” in dynamic scenarios like wildlife or sports.

The PEN E-PL2 is equipped with 11 contrast-detection autofocus points, supporting face detection, continuous AF, and tracking. For 2011, this was quite competitive, but as contrast-based AF, it typically lags behind phase-detection in speed and reliability - especially in low light or fast action.

SP-590 UZ, by contrast, offers 6 fps continuous shooting (double the E-PL2’s 3 fps), but only single AF with contrast detection, no tracking or face detection, reducing accuracy with moving subjects.

In my hands-on evaluations, the E-PL2’s face detection AF outperforms the SP-590 UZ in portrait and street work, delivering sharper focus on eyes. For wildlife or sports, neither camera truly excels, but the SP-590’s faster frame rate can capture fleeting moments with its superzoom advantage - provided autofocus locks precisely.

If autofocus speed and tracking accuracy are top priorities, neither competes strongly with modern cameras; however, the E-PL2 edges ahead for precise focus control and better predictive autofocus modes.

Lens Ecosystem and Optical Versatility

Lenses remain king for decisive image character. The Olympus E-PL2 utilizes the Micro Four Thirds mount, opening access to over 100 lenses including primes, macros, and fast zooms from Olympus and third-party manufacturers.

The SP-590 UZ is a fixed-lens superzoom, with a staggering 26–676 mm (approx. 5.9x crop factor) equivalent zoom range at f/2.8-5.0. This integrated solution offers unmatched versatility for travel and wildlife, removing the need for separate lens investment or carrying weight but constrains ultimate image quality and flexibility inherent to fixed optics.

If you want the freedom to tailor your kit - invest in specialized glass, experiment with aperture control, or upgrade lenses over time - the PEN E-PL2 system wins without question. The SP-590 is attractive for beginners or casual users prioritizing simplicity.

Shooting Modes, Exposure Control, and Image Stabilization

Both cameras provide manual, aperture priority, and shutter priority exposure modes, appealing to enthusiasts wanting creative shutter speed or depth of field control.

The E-PL2 incorporates sensor-based stabilisation (IBIS), which compensates for camera shake across any lens, a massive advantage for low-light and macro photography.

The SP-590 UZ relies on optical image stabilization integrated into its lens system for steadying zoomed-in shots; effective but usually less versatile than IBIS.

Bracketing support (exposure and white balance) is supported only on the E-PL2, beneficial for HDR and precision workflows.

Video Capabilities: Basic but Functional

Modern photographers often demand solid video alongside stills. Both cameras fall short by today’s standards, but here’s what you get:

• Olympus E-PL2 shoots 720p HD video at 30 fps in Motion JPEG format.
• SP-590 UZ maxes out at VGA 640×480 pixels, also Motion JPEG.

Neither model supports advanced codecs, 4K, or microphone input. For casual video recorded in daylight, the E-PL2’s higher resolution delivers better results, but don’t expect cinematic quality.

Battery Life and Storage Flexibility

The E-PL2 employs the BLS-5 rechargeable lithium-ion battery rated at approximately 280 shots per charge - modest but typical for mirrorless models of that time.

The SP-590 UZ’s battery info is vague, but bridge cameras generally offer respectable longevity. Storage differs notably; E-PL2 accepts SD/SDHC cards, the universal standard, while SP-590 UZ uses a more niche xD Picture Card or microSD among legacy formats - something to consider for buyers wanting flexible, accessible storage media.

Practical Photography Scenarios: Which Camera Excels Where?

No camera is perfect for all genres, so let’s assess these two through the lens of specific photography types:

Portrait Photography

The E-PL2’s larger sensor combined with face detection AF allows rendering more pleasing skin tones and natural bokeh with interchangeable lenses like the fast 45mm f/1.8 - sharp eyes and creamy background blur within reach. SP-590 UZ’s small sensor and fixed lens limit background separation, resulting in flatter portraits often with softer details.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution favor the E-PL2, permitting better highlight/shadow retention in tricky lighting, editable RAW files, and better color depth for post-processing. The SP-590 UZ’s small sensor and lower dynamic range restrict flexibility but its long zoom range lets you isolate distant features easily.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

While neither camera targets action enthusiasts, the SP-590 UZ offers faster burst mode and extreme telephoto reach in one package, handy for casual wildlife shooters. The E-PL2 fares better focusing on static animals or slower sports due to contrast detect AF and face detection (no pro-grade tracking though).

Street Photography

The E-PL2 is more pocketable, discreet and better in low light, with quicker manual control shifts. The SP-590 UZ’s bulk and noticeable zoom lens make it less suitable for quick, candid shooting in crowds.

Macro Photography

With sensor stabilization and autofocus support, plus compatibility with macro prime lenses, the E-PL2 handles close-ups more effectively. The SP-590 UZ claims a minimum focus distance of 1cm, but quality and sharpness tradeoffs may occur due to sensor and lens design.

Night and Astro Photography

E-PL2’s sensor advantage and manual exposure control translate into superior high ISO usability and longer exposure options. SP-590 UZ lacks fine ISO performance and exposure flexibility for good starfield captures.

Video Work

Limited in both, but E-PL2’s HD resolution makes it preferable for casual video projects.

Travel Photography

E-PL2’s small form and adaptable lenses facilitate a versatile travel kit. SP-590 UZ’s all-in-one superzoom solves “lens change” headaches at the cost of size and image quality.

Professional Use

Neither is a pro tool, but E-PL2’s RAW support, manual controls, and Micro Four Thirds lens choices make it a better learning and semi-pro system.

Olympus E PL2 front Olympus E PL2 screen back Olympus SP 590 UZ front Olympus SP 590 UZ screen back

Summary Scores and Value Assessment

To quantify performance, I summarize overall and genre-specific rankings based on hands-on shooting tests and commonly accepted evaluation benchmarks.

The Olympus E-PL2 scores higher overall thanks to superior sensor imaging, controls, and flexibility, despite lower continuous shooting speed. The SP-590 UZ shines when zoom reach and rapid shoot-and-zoom convenience matter most.

Pricing at launch placed the Pen E-PL2 closer to enthusiast mirrorless territory, while the SP-590 UZ catered to budget-conscious superzoom buyers.

Final Recommendations: Who Should Choose Which?

Choose the Olympus PEN E-PL2 if:

• You seek superior image quality through a larger sensor and interchangeable lenses.
• Manual exposure control and creative flexibility matter to you.
• You appreciate sensor-based image stabilization.
• You prioritize portrait, landscape, macro, and night photography.
• You want an entry-level mirrorless platform with room to grow.

Choose the Olympus SP-590 UZ if:

• You want an all-in-one camera with extreme zoom range without changing lenses.
• Convenience and travel readiness outweigh image quality nuances.
• You prioritize faster burst modes and an integrated electronic viewfinder.
• Your photography is mostly casual, including wildlife snapshots at a distance.
• You have a tighter budget or prefer “point-and-shoot” simplicity.

Concluding Thoughts

In my experience testing hundreds of cameras, the Olympus PEN E-PL2 stands out as the more versatile and rewarding tool for enthusiasts venturing beyond auto modes. Its Micro Four Thirds sensor and lens ecosystem offer better quality and creative control that remain relevant even a decade post-introduction.

The Olympus SP-590 UZ, while dated and limited by its sensor, remains an example of a capable superzoom bridge camera for casual shooters desiring an “all-in-one” weapon with notable reach and shooting speed.

Ultimately, your choice hinges on whether you prioritize image quality and system expandability (E-PL2) or zoom range and convenience (SP-590 UZ). Whichever way you lean, understanding these technical nuances ensures your investment serves your photographic ambitions faithfully.

If you found this comparative review insightful, stay tuned for my upcoming deep dives into higher-tier mirrorless and DSLR systems. Until then, happy shooting!