Olympus E-PL2 vs Pentax W80

Let's look a bit more in depth at the Olympus E-PL2 and Pentax W80, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Pentax. The sensor resolution of the E-PL2 (12MP) and the W80 (12MP) is relatively comparable but the E-PL2 (Four Thirds) and W80 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL2 was released 20 months later than the W80 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PL2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax W80 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight to a in depth comparison, here is a simple summary of how the E-PL2 grades against the W80 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL2 and Pentax Optio W80. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL2 Gallery and Pentax W80 Gallery.

If you're going to lug around your camera, you have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL2 offers exterior measurements of 114mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") along with a weight of 362 grams (0.80 lbs) while the Pentax W80 has dimensions of 100mm x 56mm x 25mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") with a weight of 156 grams (0.34 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-PL2 and Pentax W80 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are utilising at that time. Below is a front view size comparison of the E-PL2 against the W80.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL2 and W80 is 85 and 94 respectively.

Typically, it is difficult to see the gap in sensor measurements simply by going through specifications. The photograph underneath should give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL2 and W80.

Plainly, both of those cameras have the same megapixels albeit not the same sensor measurements. The E-PL2 contains the bigger sensor which is going to make achieving shallower depth of field less difficult. The more recent E-PL2 will have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.