Olympus E-PL3 vs Pentax P80

On this page, we will be matching up the Olympus E-PL3 versus Pentax P80, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by competitors Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the E-PL3 (12MP) and the P80 (12MP) is relatively comparable but the E-PL3 (Four Thirds) and P80 (1/2.3") boast different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL3 was manufactured 2 years later than the P80 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PL3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax P80 being a Compact camera.

Before we go into a step-by-step comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the E-PL3 grades versus the P80 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL3 and Pentax Optio P80. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery and Pentax P80 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you'll need to think about its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL3 provides exterior dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") with a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) and the Pentax P80 has specifications of 102mm x 59mm x 25mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.0") and a weight of 125 grams (0.28 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL3 versus Pentax P80 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with at that moment. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the E-PL3 against the P80.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL3 and P80 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Sometimes, it is difficult to picture the gap in sensor measurements simply by checking out technical specs. The graphic below might offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL3 and P80.

As you have seen, both of these cameras have the same megapixel count albeit different sensor measurements. The E-PL3 offers the bigger sensor which will make obtaining shallow depth of field less difficult. The more recent E-PL3 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.