Olympus E-PL5 vs Olympus SZ-12

In this write-up, we are matching up the Olympus E-PL5 and Olympus SZ-12, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and they are both sold by Olympus. The resolution of the E-PL5 (16MP) and the SZ-12 (14MP) is fairly similar but the E-PL5 (Four Thirds) and SZ-12 (1/2.3") possess totally different sensor dimensions.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL5 was manufactured 9 months after the SZ-12 which means that they are of a similar age. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus SZ-12 being a Compact camera.

Before diving through a detailed comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the E-PL5 scores against the SZ-12 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL5 & Olympus SZ-12. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL5 Gallery & Olympus SZ-12 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry around your camera regularly, you'll have to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PL5 has outside dimensions of 111mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.5") having a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs) and the Olympus SZ-12 has proportions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") having a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-PL5 and Olympus SZ-12 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are utilizing during that time. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the E-PL5 against the SZ-12.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL5 and SZ-12 is 88 and 89 respectively.

Often, it can be hard to envision the gap between sensor sizes just by reviewing specifications. The image underneath may give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL5 and SZ-12.

Plainly, the 2 cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The E-PL5 due to its larger sensor will make getting shallow depth of field less difficult and the Olympus E-PL5 will offer greater detail due to its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will let you crop photos far more aggressively. The younger E-PL5 is going to have an edge with regard to sensor tech.