Olympus E-PL5 vs Panasonic FP1

Here is a extended overview of the Olympus E-PL5 vs Panasonic FP1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Ultracompact by companies Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a huge gap among the resolutions of the E-PL5 (16MP) and FP1 (12MP) and the E-PL5 (Four Thirds) and FP1 (1/2.3") use totally different sensor size.

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The E-PL5 was released 2 years later than the FP1 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both of these cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-PL5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FP1 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go straight into a full comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the E-PL5 scores vs the FP1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP1. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL5 Gallery and Panasonic FP1 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera frequently, you have to factor its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL5 provides exterior measurements of 111mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.5") having a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs) while the Panasonic FP1 has specifications of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") having a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-PL5 vs Panasonic FP1 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you are employing during that time. Below is the front view dimensions comparison of the E-PL5 compared to the FP1.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL5 and FP1 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to see the contrast in sensor sizing purely by seeing technical specs. The visual underneath will help offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL5 and FP1.

As you have seen, the 2 cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-PL5 because of its bigger sensor will make getting bokeh less difficult and the Olympus E-PL5 will show extra detail as a result of its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also help you crop photographs somewhat more aggressively. The newer E-PL5 will have an edge with regard to sensor innovation.