Olympus E-PL3 vs Sony a5000

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Olympus E-PL3 versus Sony a5000, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Sony. There is a sizeable difference between the sensor resolutions of the E-PL3 (12MP) and a5000 (20MP) and the E-PL3 (Four Thirds) and a5000 (APS-C) enjoy totally different sensor sizing.

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The E-PL3 was announced 3 years earlier than the a5000 which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before getting through a complete comparison, below is a simple synopsis of how the E-PL3 grades against the a5000 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL3 and Sony Alpha a5000. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery and Sony a5000 Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to travel with your camera regularly, you need to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PL3 has outside measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) while the Sony a5000 has proportions of 110mm x 63mm x 36mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-PL3 versus Sony a5000 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you are employing during that time. Below is the front view measurements comparison of the E-PL3 vs the a5000.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the E-PL3 and a5000 is 88 and 89 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is very difficult to envision the gap between sensor dimensions purely by reviewing specs. The pic underneath may offer you a much better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL3 and a5000.

As you can plainly see, the two cameras enjoy different megapixels and different sensor dimensions. The E-PL3 using its tinier sensor will make shooting bokeh tougher and the Sony a5000 will deliver greater detail with its extra 8MP. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The more aged E-PL3 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.