Olympus E-PL2 vs Olympus Stylus 9000: In-Depth Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

When exploring options for your next camera purchase, understanding how two very different cameras stack up against each other is crucial. Today, we’re diving into a comprehensive comparison between the Olympus PEN E-PL2, an entry-level mirrorless camera launched in 2011, and the Olympus Stylus 9000, a small sensor compact released back in 2009. Both designed under Olympus’ well-respected legacy, each camera follows a distinct philosophy and caters to quite different photographic needs.

In this guide, we will explore every key aspect - sensor technology, build, image quality, autofocus, ergonomics, and strengths across major photography disciplines - so you can confidently decide which fits your creative ambitions and budget best.

Getting to Know the Contenders: Overview and Design

Before we delve into technical details, it’s good to establish the physical and conceptual differences between these two.

• Olympus PEN E-PL2: A rangefinder-style mirrorless camera with interchangeable lens support through the Micro Four Thirds mount. It offers manual controls, RAW support, and a 12MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor.

• Olympus Stylus 9000: A compact point-and-shoot with a fixed 10x zoom lens (28-280mm equivalent) and a 12MP 1/2.3" CCD sensor. It relies mostly on automatic functions, with few manual adjustments.

Size and Handling

Size and ergonomics often dictate how comfortable a camera is to use daily and how portable it will be when traveling.

• The E-PL2 measures 114x72x42 mm and weighs 362g. Its larger size accommodates a better grip, manual controls, and interchangeable lenses.
• The Stylus 9000 is more pocketable at 96x60x31 mm and only 225g, ideal for grab-and-go shooting.

Our Take: If you crave manual control and a robust grip for longer shoots, the E-PL2 is preferable. For casual shooting, street photography, or travel with minimal fuss, the 9000 shines through portability.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera

Image quality hinges largely on sensor size, technology, and processing power. Let’s examine the sensor specs here:

The E-PL2's larger Four Thirds sensor captures more light and detail, crucial for image sharpness, dynamic range, and low-light performance. This sensor facilitates shooting in varied light conditions and produces cleaner images at higher ISOs.

The Stylus 9000's small 1/2.3" sensor is typical for compact cameras - adequate for bright daylight but more prone to noise and lower dynamic range in dim settings.

Real-World Impact:

• For landscape and portrait photographers concerned with nuanced detail and wider tonal gradations, the E-PL2’s sensor combined with RAW processing options delivers superior results.
• The Stylus 9000 can serve point-and-shoot needs well but will struggle with noise and sharpness compared to the E-PL2, especially beyond ISO 400.

Control Layout and User Interface: Manual vs Auto

You want intuitive controls to keep your workflow smooth, whether in the studio or on location.

• E-PL2: Offers a traditional top-dial with shutter speed control, mode dial, exposure compensation, and custom buttons. The LCD is a fixed 3” 460k-dot HyperCrystal AR LCD. User interface supports full manual, aperture priority, shutter priority, and program modes.

• Stylus 9000: Simplified control scheme optimized for auto shooting, lacking manual exposure modes and control dials. The 2.7” 230k-dot LCD is smaller with a standard fixed display.

What this means for you:

• If you prefer hands-on exposure control, focus modes, and creative freedom, the E-PL2’s control scheme suits you.
• For casual photographers wanting a straightforward “point-and-shoot,” the 9000’s simplicity is accessible and less intimidating.

Autofocus, Speed, and Performance

Autofocus systems vary widely and impact success in fast-moving environments like sports or wildlife photography.

The E-PL2’s AF is multi-point with face detection and continuous tracking, making it much more capable for moving subjects, while the Stylus 9000 has a basic single AF area and no tracking or face detection.

Use Case Implications:

• Wildlife and sports shooters will find the E-PL2 more reliable at locking and tracking fast or erratic subjects.
• The 9000’s autofocus is fine for static scenes and general snapshots but will struggle in action scenarios.

Photography Disciplines: Performance Breakdown by Genre

Let’s break down these cameras’ usability in key photography categories.

Portrait Photography

Portraits thrive on detailed skin tones, expressive eyes, and appealing background blur.

• E-PL2: The Four Thirds sensor and Micro Four Thirds lenses produce detail with natural skin tone rendering. Face-detection autofocus helps in sharp eye focusing. While the sensor size limits bokeh compared to full-frame, quality prime lenses (e.g., 45mm f/1.8) can produce respectable background separation.

• Stylus 9000: Fixed zoom lens with a slow aperture (f/3.2-f/5.9) limits bokeh and low-light portrait quality. No face detection impacts ease of focus on faces.

Landscape Photography

In landscapes, resolution, dynamic range, and weather resistance matter.

• E-PL2: The sensor offers 10.2 stops of dynamic range (DxOMark tested), helping preserve shadow and highlight detail. The modular lens system broadens composition options. Lack of weather sealing can be a drawback outdoors.

• Stylus 9000: Limited dynamic range from the small sensor restricts tonal depth. However, its compact form factor is excellent for casual hiking or travel landscapes.

Wildlife & Sports

Fast autofocus, burst shooting, and telephoto reach are important.

• E-PL2: Burst at 3 fps with continuous AF and decent tracking capability helps capture fleeting moments. Micro Four Thirds lenses include telephoto zooms reaching long focal lengths (e.g., 100-400mm equiv.). Sensor-based image stabilization aids handheld shots.

• Stylus 9000: 10x zoom (28-280mm equiv.) is versatile for moderate telephoto reach but lacks rapid AF and burst, limiting success in fast action.

Street Photography

Discreteness, portability, and low-light performance count.

• E-PL2: Small for an interchangeable lens, but larger than compacts. Silent shutter is absent, so shutter noise isn’t minimal. Better low-light usability due to the larger sensor.

• Stylus 9000: Very pocketable and unobtrusive, good for candid shots. However, the flash and lens speed limit low-light capability.

Macro Photography

Magnification, close-focusing distance, and stabilization matter here.

• E-PL2: Interchangeable lenses dedicated for macro (e.g., 60mm f/2.8 macro) available, enabling high detail and sharpness. Sensor stabilization supports handheld macro work.

• Stylus 9000: Close-focusing down to 1cm is a plus, but smaller sensor limits detail resolution and image quality.

Night / Astro Photography

High ISO, long exposure, and noise performance are key.

• E-PL2: ISO extended up to 6400 with usable noise levels at moderate ISOs. Manual exposures and RAW files allow precise control. Lack of weather sealing requires care outdoors.

• Stylus 9000: Max native ISO 1600 with limited low-light performance. No manual mode limits flexibility for night scenes.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras offer basic video but are far from modern standards.

If video is a secondary consideration, the E-PL2’s HD resolution and sensor stabilization provide acceptable quality for casual clips. The Stylus 9000 trails with low-resolution SD video.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Ergonomics

Neither camera features environmental sealing, so lens care and shooting conditions should be considered when venturing outdoors.

• E-PL2: Polycarbonate body with metal accents. Comfortable grip and button layout for longer use.

• Stylus 9000: Lightweight plastic shell designed for easy handling but lacks dedicated grip and tactile buttons.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

The E-PL2’s big advantage is Micro Four Thirds lens compatibility across Olympus and Panasonic lines, totaling over 100 lenses ranging from ultra-wide to super-telephoto primes and zooms.

Olympus E PL2 front Olympus E PL2 screen back Olympus 9000 front Olympus 9000 screen back

The Stylus 9000’s fixed zoom lens means you have no choice with focal range or upgrades.

Connectivity and Storage

• E-PL2: USB 2.0, HDMI out, single SD/SDHC card slot. No wireless (Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC).

• Stylus 9000: USB 2.0 only. Uses xD Picture Card, microSD, or internal storage. No wireless or HDMI.

Battery Life

• E-PL2: Rated ~280 shots per charge (CIPA standard), average for mirrorless cameras of its era.

• Stylus 9000: Battery info not specified, but expect lower shot capacity due to compact design.

Price and Value Proposition

Both cameras are now discontinued and available used. Pricing varies greatly:

The E-PL2 offers a pathway to expand your kit with lenses and better image quality at a modest price. The 9000 serves casual shooters searching for convenience.

Final Assessment: Which Camera Should You Choose?

Wrapping Up and Practical Recommendations

The Olympus PEN E-PL2 is a capable entry-level mirrorless camera that offers you manual control, interchangeable lenses, and superior image quality thanks to its Four Thirds sensor. It demands a learning curve but rewards with creativity and flexibility. It’s a solid option for photography enthusiasts ready to develop their skills and explore various genres seriously.

On the other hand, the Olympus Stylus 9000 is a classic example of a compact point-and-shoot camera designed for convenience. It’s easy to carry, simple to operate, and suited for casual snapshots or travel photography where weight and size matter most.

If you are just starting or want a lightweight pocket camera, the 9000 will suffice. But if your road leads you to professional-level image quality, manual exposure, and lens versatility, the E-PL2 opens doors for growth.

Getting Started: Next Steps for Your Photography Journey

• If considering the E-PL2, check compatibility with Micro Four Thirds lenses. Prime lenses like the Olympus 45mm f/1.8 are excellent for portraits and low light.
• For the Stylus 9000, familiarize yourself with its zoom range and practice using macro mode for creative close-ups.
• Explore online communities and sample image galleries to see real-world results from each camera.
• Test both cameras in-store or borrow if possible to assess handling and interface comfort.
• Invest in reliable SD cards and spare batteries to maximize your shooting time.

Your camera is a tool - choose one that inspires you and fits your true needs. With this detailed comparison, you are now well-equipped to elevate your photography to the next level.

Happy shooting!

(Images integrated to highlight key points and provide visual context throughout this review.)