Olympus E-PL2 vs Panasonic G3

Its time to look much closer at the Olympus E-PL2 versus Panasonic G3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a big difference among the sensor resolutions of the E-PL2 (12MP) and G3 (16MP) but both cameras posses the same sensor sizes (Four Thirds).

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The E-PL2 was brought out 5 months prior to the G3 so they are both of a similar generation. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PL2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic G3 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the E-PL2 scores vs the G3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-G3. The entire galleries are available at Olympus E-PL2 Gallery and Panasonic G3 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to lug around your camera frequently, you should consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL2 comes with physical measurements of 114mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") with a weight of 362 grams (0.80 lbs) and the Panasonic G3 has dimensions of 115mm x 84mm x 47mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 1.9") with a weight of 336 grams (0.74 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-PL2 versus Panasonic G3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Following is a front view proportions comparison of the E-PL2 and the G3.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the E-PL2 and G3 is 85 and 83 respectively.

Oftentimes, it's hard to picture the contrast in sensor measurements just by viewing specifications. The graphic here should offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL2 and G3.

To sum up, the two cameras provide the same sensor dimensions albeit different megapixels. You should expect the Panasonic G3 to render more detail having its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop shots more aggressively.