Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic GH2

Here is a complete review of the Olympus E-PL3 and Panasonic GH2, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by companies Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a substantial gap among the image resolutions of the E-PL3 (12MP) and GH2 (16MP) but both cameras offer the identical sensor sizes (Four Thirds).

Photography Glossary

The E-PL3 was brought out 7 months later than the GH2 which means that they are both of a similar age. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic GH2 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a full comparison, here is a simple overview of how the E-PL3 grades versus the GH2 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL3 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH2. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery & Panasonic GH2 Gallery.

For anyone who is going to carry your camera frequently, you should consider its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL3 features outside measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") and a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) and the Panasonic GH2 has specifications of 124mm x 90mm x 76mm (4.9" x 3.5" x 3.0") accompanied by a weight of 442 grams (0.97 lbs).

See the Olympus E-PL3 and Panasonic GH2 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you choose at that time. The following is a front view measurement comparison of the E-PL3 and the GH2.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL3 and GH2 is 88 and 70 respectively.

Typically, it is hard to imagine the contrast in sensor sizing merely by viewing specifications. The photograph below may provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL3 and GH2.

To sum up, both of these cameras come with the identical sensor size albeit different megapixels. You can count on the Panasonic GH2 to result in more detail having its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots a good deal more aggressively. The newer E-PL3 should have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.