Olympus E-PL2 vs Samsung NX5

In this write-up, we are looking at the Olympus E-PL2 versus Samsung NX5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Samsung. The image resolution of the E-PL2 (12MP) and the NX5 (15MP) is fairly well matched but the E-PL2 (Four Thirds) and NX5 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor size.

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The E-PL2 was announced 9 months later than the NX5 so they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go through a in-depth comparison, below is a simple summation of how the E-PL2 grades versus the NX5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL2 and Samsung NX5. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL2 Gallery and Samsung NX5 Gallery.

When you are looking to lug around your camera frequently, you're going to have to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL2 provides exterior dimensions of 114mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") accompanied by a weight of 362 grams (0.80 lbs) and the Samsung NX5 has specifications of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") with a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus E-PL2 versus Samsung NX5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are utilizing at that time. Here is the front view physical size comparison of the E-PL2 vs the NX5.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the E-PL2 and NX5 is 85 and 80 respectively.

Usually, it can be difficult to visualise the difference between sensor measurements purely by looking at technical specs. The visual underneath will give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL2 and NX5.

As you can tell, both cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The E-PL2 with its tinier sensor will make getting bokeh harder and the Samsung NX5 will give more detail with its extra 3MP. Greater resolution can also make it easier to crop pics far more aggressively. The fresher E-PL2 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.