Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic FX48

Here, we are reviewing the Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic FX48, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-PL3 (12MP) and the FX48 (12MP) is very well matched but the E-PL3 (Four Thirds) and FX48 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL3 was brought out 2 years after the FX48 which is quite a significant difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FX48 being a Compact camera.

Before diving right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the E-PL3 matches up versus the FX48 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PL3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FX48. The entire galleries are available at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery & Panasonic FX48 Gallery.

When you are intending to carry around your camera, you will have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL3 offers physical measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") with a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) while the Panasonic FX48 has dimensions of 95mm x 53mm x 22mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.9") having a weight of 150 grams (0.33 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic FX48 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are using during that time. Here is a front view over all size comparison of the E-PL3 and the FX48.

Using size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL3 and FX48 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Generally, its tough to see the gap between sensor sizes just by checking a spec sheet. The pic here will offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL3 and FX48.

Clearly, both of the cameras feature the identical MP but not the same sensor sizes. The E-PL3 contains the larger sensor which will make achieving shallow DOF less difficult. The newer E-PL3 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.