Olympus E-PL3 vs Samsung NX1000

Let's look more in depth at the Olympus E-PL3 and Samsung NX1000, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by competitors Olympus and Samsung. There is a significant difference among the image resolutions of the E-PL3 (12MP) and NX1000 (20MP) and the E-PL3 (Four Thirds) and NX1000 (APS-C) have totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL3 was released 7 months prior to the NX1000 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving right into a in depth comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the E-PL3 grades versus the NX1000 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL3 and Samsung NX1000. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery and Samsung NX1000 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera regularly, you should consider its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL3 comes with exterior measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") having a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) and the Samsung NX1000 has specifications of 114mm x 63mm x 37mm (4.5" x 2.5" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 222 grams (0.49 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-PL3 and Samsung NX1000 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have chosen at that time. Following is a front view measurement comparison of the E-PL3 and the NX1000.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL3 and NX1000 is 88 and 90 respectively.

In many cases, it is hard to envision the contrast in sensor sizing merely by researching a spec sheet. The graphic below may provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL3 and NX1000.

Clearly, both the cameras have different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-PL3 featuring a smaller sensor will make shooting shallower DOF harder and the Samsung NX1000 will render greater detail as a result of its extra 8MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop pictures a bit more aggressively. The older E-PL3 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.