Olympus E-PL2 vs Sony HX1

In this article, we are evaluating the Olympus E-PL2 vs Sony HX1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Olympus and Sony. There exists a big gap among the sensor resolutions of the E-PL2 (12MP) and HX1 (9MP) and the E-PL2 (Four Thirds) and HX1 (1/2.4") possess totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL2 was introduced 22 months later than the HX1 making the cameras a generation apart from one another. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony HX1 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before going through a in depth comparison, below is a quick view of how the E-PL2 grades versus the HX1 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PL2 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-HX1. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL2 Gallery and Sony HX1 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry your camera often, you will have to think about its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL2 comes with external measurements of 114mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") and a weight of 362 grams (0.80 lbs) whilst the Sony HX1 has specifications of 115mm x 83mm x 92mm (4.5" x 3.3" x 3.6") along with a weight of 544 grams (1.20 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL2 vs Sony HX1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are employing at the time. Here is the front view overall size comparison of the E-PL2 vs the HX1.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL2 and HX1 is 85 and 67 respectively.

Normally, its tough to envision the contrast in sensor sizing purely by going through a spec sheet. The visual underneath may provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL2 and HX1.

As you can see, each of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-PL2 with its larger sensor will make shooting bokeh easier and the Olympus E-PL2 will provide more detail using its extra 3 Megapixels. Greater resolution will also help you crop pics a little more aggressively. The younger E-PL2 is going to have an advantage in sensor tech.