Olympus E-PL3 vs Panasonic S1

Below is a comprehensive overview of the Olympus E-PL3 and Panasonic S1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PL3 (12MP) and the S1 (12MP) is relatively similar but the E-PL3 (Four Thirds) and S1 (1/2.3") come with different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL3 was announced 9 months later than the S1 so they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic S1 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a simple view of how the E-PL3 grades vs the S1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL3 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S1. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery and Panasonic S1 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to lug around your camera frequently, you need to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PL3 has got exterior dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") along with a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) while the Panasonic S1 has sizing of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PL3 and Panasonic S1 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have attached at the time. Here is the front view dimension comparison of the E-PL3 and the S1.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL3 and S1 is 88 and 96 respectively.

Often, it's difficult to picture the gap between sensor measurements just by reading specs. The graphic below may offer you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL3 and S1.

All in all, both cameras enjoy the same exact MP albeit different sensor measurements. The E-PL3 includes the bigger sensor which should make obtaining shallower DOF easier. The more modern E-PL3 provides an advantage in sensor technology.