Olympus E-PL2 vs Sony NEX-3

Below is a extensive comparison of the Olympus E-PL2 vs Sony NEX-3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Sony. The image resolution of the E-PL2 (12MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is fairly well matched but the E-PL2 (Four Thirds) and NEX-3 (APS-C) use different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL2 was unveiled 9 months later than the NEX-3 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving in to a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the E-PL2 grades against the NEX-3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL2 and Sony Alpha NEX-3. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-PL2 Gallery and Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

If you are planning to lug around your camera, you need to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PL2 has got 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 Sony NEX-3 has proportions of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") with a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-PL2 vs Sony NEX-3 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have chosen at that time. The following is the front view proportions comparison of the E-PL2 vs the NEX-3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL2 and NEX-3 is 85 and 89 respectively.

Usually, its hard to picture the contrast between sensor measurements merely by checking specs. The visual here will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL2 and NEX-3.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The E-PL2 with its tinier sensor is going to make achieving bokeh tougher and the Sony NEX-3 will give you greater detail having an extra 2 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also let you crop pics far more aggressively. The younger E-PL2 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.