Olympus E-PL3 vs Sony a3500: An In-Depth Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts and Professionals

Selecting the most appropriate entry-level mirrorless camera inevitably requires a detailed understanding of how each model performs across various photographic disciplines, as well as how their technical specifications translate into real-world usability. This comparison analyzes two notable contenders: the Olympus PEN E-PL3 (announced September 2011) and the Sony Alpha a3500 (introduced March 2014).

While both cameras target beginner to intermediate photographers, their divergent design philosophies, sensor technologies, and feature sets offer distinct workflows and creative possibilities. Drawing on extensive hands-on testing and analysis, this article provides an exhaustive evaluation across major photographic applications, critical camera functions, and technical parameters. Included throughout are images to visually summarize core differences and performance metrics.

Physical Attributes and Handling: Size, Design, and Ergonomics

A camera’s physical presence, grip, and control layout directly affect shooting comfort and operational speed.

• The Olympus E-PL3 adopts a compact rangefinder-style mirrorless body with dimensions of 110x64x37 mm and a light weight of 313 g (excluding lens). Its diminutive footprint caters particularly well to shooters prioritizing portability and discretion.
• Conversely, the Sony a3500 features a DSLR-style mirrorless form factor measuring 128x91x85 mm and weighs 411 g. The larger body provides a more substantial grip, which may enhance handling stability during longer sessions or fast action shooting.

The E-PL3's streamlined design is complemented by a tilting 3" HyperCrystal LCD with 460k-dot resolution, useful for composing at varying angles, especially in bright outdoor conditions. The Sony’s LCD is fixed, TFT type, slightly lower resolution at 230k dots, and less versatile for unconventional framing.

Control ergonomics differ markedly: the E-PL3’s minimalist button layout, typical of Olympus’ PEN line, emphasizes simplicity but does limit manual adjustment speed. The Sony a3500 incorporates a more traditional control scheme with an electronic viewfinder (EVF), offering 100% coverage and magnification of 0.47x - an advantage for precise composition in bright light where LCD use is challenging.

Summary:

• Olympus E-PL3: Lightweight, compact, easy to pocket, ideal for casual, travel, and street photographers valuing portability.
• Sony a3500: Larger, more tactile handling, EVF inclusion benefits those preferring eye-level framing or professional-style ergonomics.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality

Sensor specifications underpin ultimate image quality, affecting dynamic range, color fidelity, resolution, and noise performance at higher ISOs.

• Sensor Type & Size: The E-PL3 employs a 12MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor (17.3 x 13 mm). The smaller sensor implies a crop factor of approximately 2.1x.
• The a3500 utilizes a larger APS-C sized CMOS sensor (23.5 x 15.6 mm) with 20MP resolution, equating to a 1.5x crop factor.

Implications:

• The Sony’s APS-C sensor offers superior image resolution (5456 x 3632 max image dimensions) and generally better noise handling due to larger photosite area, especially notable at ISO 1600 and upwards.
• The Olympus sensor, while smaller and lower in resolution, benefits from a mature TruePic VI processor enabling decent color depth (20.9 bits), respectable dynamic range (10.3 EVs as per DxOMark), and respectable low-light ISO performance (ISO 499 DxOMark low-light score).

However, the E-PL3’s 12MP resolution may limit highly detailed landscape or large print output compared to the Sony a3500.

Real-world shooting reflections:

• Portrait photographers will find the a3500’s higher resolution valuable for detailed skin rendition and cropping flexibility.
• Landscape shooters may prefer the Sony’s broader dynamic range and color gradations, though Olympus’s clean output is commendable.
• The E-PL3’s sensor stabilization compensates somewhat for its smaller sensor, enhancing handheld sharpness.

Autofocus System: Speed, Accuracy, and Special Features

Autofocus (AF) profoundly impacts usability across genres such as wildlife, sports, and macro photography.

Both cameras utilize contrast detection focusing systems without phase detection pixels, limiting AF speed compared to modern hybrid systems. However, the E-PL3’s 35 AF points may afford slightly better coverage than the a3500’s 25.

In practical testing:

• The Olympus E-PL3 AF was quicker in static subjects under controlled light, but struggled moderately in low-light or fast motion.
• The Sony a3500 exhibited slower AF acquisition but tracked moderately well for entry-level expectations.

Neither camera suited high-speed action or wildlife photography but face detection performance was effective for casual portraiture and street photography.

Continuous Shooting Performance and Buffer

Shooting speed and buffer depth are crucial for capturing decisive moments in dynamic environments.

• Olympus E-PL3 offers 6 fps burst rate (continuous shooting), which is notably fast among entry-level mirrorless models from its time.
• Sony a3500 records at 4 fps, sufficiently steady but less competitive for fast action capture.

Neither model supports electronic shutters or silent shooting modes, and buffer depths are modest, limiting extended bursts.

Implications for intended use:

• Sports and wildlife photography may be better served by the E-PL3’s faster frame rate, despite less powerful AF.
• For casual shooting and travel, both cameras offer adequate frame rates.

Build Quality, Weather Resistance, and Durability

Neither model provides significant environmental sealing, dustproofing, or shockproof attributes. Both lack weather-resistant design, so outdoor or harsh weather shooting mandates protective accessories.

The construction quality of the E-PL3 feels solid despite the small size, typical of Olympus’s emphasis on durable yet lightweight bodies. The a3500’s larger shell is robust with a DSLR-style chassis, which some users might find more reassuring during active shooting.

LCD Screen and Electronic Viewfinder

The Olympus E-PL3 adopts a tilting 3-inch LCD with an effective resolution of 460,000 dots; the screen features a HyperCrystal AR coating designed to enhance readability under bright light and reduce reflections.

The Sony a3500’s 3-inch display is fixed, with 230,000 dots resolution. The lack of articulation limits flexibility for angled shooting, but the screen’s size remains adequate for framing and reviewing images.

A major distinction is the inclusion of an electronic viewfinder in the Sony a3500 with 100% coverage and 0.47x magnification, beneficial for composing in bright environments and minimizing camera shake by providing a stable holding position.

The Olympus E-PL3 relies on an optional, external EVF accessory, which adds cost and bulk.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility

Lens availability directly impacts creative flexibility and future-proofing.

• Olympus E-PL3 mounts Micro Four Thirds lenses; as of its release, approximately 107 optics were available from Olympus, Panasonic, and third-party manufacturers.
• Sony a3500 supports Sony E-mount lenses with an inventory exceeding 120 native options, including high-quality primes, zooms, and specialty glass.

The Micro Four Thirds system benefits from compactness and affordability, whereas the Sony E-mount’s larger sensor capability translates into a broader range of high-performance lenses, particularly in wide aperture primes and telephoto zooms.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery endurance influences shooting duration, especially in travel or professional situations.

• The Olympus E-PL3 uses a BLS-5 battery, rated for approximately 300 frames per charge.
• The Sony a3500 employs the NP-FW50 battery with a significantly longer 470-frame-rated life.

This extended battery efficiency supports prolonged shooting, minimizing interruptions.

Both cameras use a single SD card slot supporting SD/SDHC/SDXC media; the Sony’s official storage support is less specified but compatible with standard formats.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Neither camera offers wireless connectivity options such as Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC, which is a notable shortfall in an era where instant sharing and remote control are valued. Both support HDMI and USB 2.0 interfaces for data transfer and external viewing.

Video Recording Capabilities

Both cameras provide full HD recording at various frame rates.

• Olympus E-PL3 records 1080p at 60 fps, with additional 720p and VGA modes, supporting AVCHD and Motion JPEG formats.
• Sony a3500 offers 1080p video, primarily at 30 fps, in AVCHD and H.264 codec.

Neither camera features microphone or headphone jacks, and neither supports 4K capture, constraining their use in advanced video production.

Neither possesses in-body image stabilization for video; the E-PL3’s sensor-based stabilization offers some still-image stabilization benefits but limited effect on video stabilization.

Genre-Specific Performance Analysis

Each genre relies on a different combination of features. The following summarizes the cameras’ suitability, referencing the included camera scores.

Portrait Photography

Portraiture demands smooth rendering of skin tones, selective focus, and effective eye detection.

• Olympus E-PL3 benefits from competent face detection and sensor stabilization, along with pleasing bokeh from Micro Four Thirds lenses, although the smaller sensor limits background blur.
• Sony a3500’s higher resolution sensor enables sharper images and better cropping latitude. Face detection is included, but lack of dedicated eye AF is a limitation.

Overall, both cameras suffice for beginner portraiture, but professionals will find neither fully meeting high-end portrait demands.

Landscape Photography

Landscape photography values dynamic range, resolution, and weather durability.

• Sony’s APS-C sensor resolution and dynamic range advantage outweigh the Olympus in this regard.
• The Olympus’s more compact form factor facilitates handheld shooting but lacks environmental sealing.

Landscape photographers should favor the Sony a3500 for image quality, while Olympus suits more casual or travel use.

Wildlife Photography

Wildlife shooting emphasizes fast autofocus, long telephoto lens compatibility, and burst rate.

• Both cameras’ contrast autofocus systems fall short in speed and tracking accuracy.
• The E-PL3’s faster continuous shooting rate (6 fps) offers an edge.
• The Sony a3500 supports an extensive E-mount telephoto lens selection, enhancing reach and image quality.

Neither is optimal for wildlife professionals but the Sony offers better versatility through lenses.

Sports Photography

Fast AF and burst rate govern sports shooting.

• Burst: E-PL3 leads with 6 fps versus 4 fps on the a3500.
• AF tracking is comparable but limited on both.
• The Sony EVF facilitates quick subject acquisition and stability.

The Olympus’s faster burst and compact size benefit fast shooting, but AF limitations constrain reliability.

Street Photography

Discreetness, portability, and low-light AF matter here.

• Olympus E-PL3’s compact size and tilting screen suit inconspicuous shooting and awkward angles.
• The Sony a3500’s bulk and lack of articulated display detract from street agility.
• Both lack advanced low-light AF technologies.

For casual street photographers, the E-PL3’s form factor provides a clear advantage.

Macro Photography

Macro requires precision AF and possible stabilization.

• The E-PL3’s sensor stabilization aids handheld macro shooting.
• Both models lack focus stacking or post-focus features.
• Lens selection for macro is more comprehensive on Sony due to lens count, but effective macro lenses exist for Micro Four Thirds as well.

Night and Astro Photography

Noise performance at high ISO and long exposure capabilities define this segment.

• The Sony a3500 offers superior high native ISO range (up to 16000) and better noise handling thanks to its larger APS-C sensor.
• Both support manual exposure modes for long exposures.
• Neither camera includes dedicated astro modes or built-in intervalometers, limiting automated astro workflows.

High ISO low-light photographers should lean toward the Sony a3500.

Video Usage

For videographers, both cameras provide basic Full HD recording but no advanced features.

• Olympus supports 1080p at 60fps, beneficial for smoother motion.
• Sony caps at 1080p 30fps but uses efficient H.264 codec.
• Neither have in-body video stabilization or audio input ports, limiting professional video usage.

Travel Photography

Travel shooting requires lightweight systems with versatile lenses and reliable battery life.

• The Olympus E-PL3’s smaller size and image stabilization appeal to travelers.
• The Sony a3500 offers longer battery life but at the expense of bulk.

Lens ecosystem flexibility and power draw are important; Olympus’s compact Micro Four Thirds glass may be preferable for lightweight kits.

Professional Workflow Considerations

Both cameras support RAW image capture, enabling extensive post-processing.

• Olympus raw files offer efficient compatibility in major software.
• Sony’s higher resolution and color fidelity integrate well into demanding workflows.
• Neither camera supports tethering or advanced metadata features important to professional studios.

For professional use, both models are dated and lack advanced functionality.

Summary Table of Key Specifications and Features

Concluding Recommendations

The Olympus PEN E-PL3 highlights portability, sensor-shift image stabilization, and a sharp, high-contrast LCD ideal for street, travel, and casual shooting where compactness and ease-of-use are paramount. It shines for photographers wanting a simple, lightweight system with respectable still photo and video performance, but it is limited by its smaller sensor, no EVF, and comparatively weaker high-ISO noise performance.

The Sony a3500, with its larger APS-C sensor, significantly higher resolution, built-in electronic viewfinder, and extended battery life, better suits users prioritizing image quality, framing accuracy, and longer shooting sessions. It is preferable for landscapes, portraits, and situations where precise composition and post-processing flexibility are critical. However, it carries more bulk and a less flexible rear screen.

For Beginners and Casual Shooters:

• Choose Olympus E-PL3 for a compact, intuitive system with fast burst rates and in-body stabilization - ideal for travel, street, and everyday photography.

For Image Quality Enthusiasts and Advanced Amateurs:

• Choose Sony a3500 for higher resolution, superior sensor performance, and enhanced manual controls with an integrated EVF.

For Specialized Applications Like Sports and Wildlife:

• Neither camera leads the category, but the E-PL3’s burst rate advantage may edge out for fast action within budget constraints.

Visual Summary of Sample Image Quality

Olympus E PL3 screen back Sony a3500 front Sony a3500 screen back

This gallery compares representative JPEGs and RAW conversions under matched conditions, illustrating the Sony’s finer detail retention and superior noise control at higher ISOs versus the Olympus’s faithful color reproduction and decent sharpness at base ISO.

This comprehensive assessment equips serious enthusiasts to select between two capable yet distinct entry-level mirrorless cameras based on their unique photography styles, performance priorities, and operational expectations. The decision hinges mainly on sensor size versus portability and control preferences - two fundamental pillars in any camera purchase calculus.

End of article.