Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic S1R

Below, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-PL3 versus Panasonic S1R, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Pro Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a large gap among the resolutions of the E-PL3 (12MP) and S1R (47MP) and the E-PL3 (Four Thirds) and S1R (Full frame) use totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL3 was introduced 8 years before the S1R which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera technology is concerned. The two cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-PL3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S1R being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before diving in to a more detailed comparison, below is a short summary of how the E-PL3 matches up against the S1R in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL3 & Panasonic Lumix DC-S1R. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery & Panasonic S1R Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera, you're going to have to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PL3 has outer dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") and a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) while the Panasonic S1R has measurements of 149mm x 110mm x 97mm (5.9" x 4.3" x 3.8") along with a weight of 1020 grams (2.25 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-PL3 versus Panasonic S1R in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you are utilizing at that moment. Underneath is the front view over all size comparison of the E-PL3 versus the S1R.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL3 and S1R is 88 and 54 respectively.

Sometimes, it's tough to envision the difference in sensor sizes just by checking out specifications. The picture below should give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL3 and S1R.

Plainly, both cameras have got different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-PL3 having a smaller sensor will make getting shallower DOF trickier and the Panasonic S1R will produce extra detail using its extra 35 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots much more aggressively. The more aged E-PL3 will be behind with regard to sensor innovation.