Olympus E-PL3 vs Olympus 7010

The following is a complete analysis of the Olympus E-PL3 vs Olympus 7010, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both are manufactured by Olympus. The sensor resolution of the E-PL3 (12MP) and the 7010 (12MP) is relatively well matched but the E-PL3 (Four Thirds) and 7010 (1/2.3") have different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL3 was unveiled 2 years after the 7010 which is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PL3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus 7010 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight to a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the E-PL3 matches up vs the 7010 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL3 & Olympus Stylus 7010. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery & Olympus 7010 Gallery.

If you are planning to travel with your camera, you need to think about its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL3 provides outer dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) while the Olympus 7010 has dimensions of 98mm x 56mm x 26mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 145 grams (0.32 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL3 vs Olympus 7010 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you have attached at that time. Below is a front view measurements comparison of the E-PL3 versus the 7010.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL3 and 7010 is 88 and 94 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to imagine the difference between sensor dimensions just by looking at technical specs. The pic below may give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL3 and 7010.

As you can tell, both the cameras have the same megapixel count albeit different sensor dimensions. The E-PL3 has got the bigger sensor which is going to make obtaining bokeh less difficult. The newer E-PL3 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.