Olympus E-PL5 vs Olympus SP-100

Following is a in-depth analysis of the Olympus E-PL5 versus Olympus SP-100, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both of them are created by Olympus. The image resolution of the E-PL5 (16MP) and the SP-100 (16MP) is very well matched but the E-PL5 (Four Thirds) and SP-100 (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL5 was revealed 16 months earlier than the SP-100 making the cameras a generation away from one another. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus SP-100 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go in to a step-by-step comparison, below is a quick view of how the E-PL5 grades against the SP-100 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PL5 and Olympus Stylus SP-100. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL5 Gallery and Olympus SP-100 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera, you'll have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL5 has got external dimensions of 111mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs) whilst the Olympus SP-100 has specifications of 122mm x 91mm x 133mm (4.8" x 3.6" x 5.2") and a weight of 594 grams (1.31 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-PL5 versus Olympus SP-100 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you have during that time. Underneath is the front view dimensions comparison of the E-PL5 vs the SP-100.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL5 and SP-100 is 88 and 63 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizes simply by looking at specs. The pic underneath may offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL5 and SP-100.

All in all, the 2 cameras offer the same exact megapixels but not the same sensor sizes. The E-PL5 contains the larger sensor which will make obtaining shallower DOF simpler. The more aged E-PL5 is going to be behind with regard to sensor innovation.