Olympus E-PL5 vs Panasonic GF3

Below is a comprehensive analysis of the Olympus E-PL5 vs Panasonic GF3, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There is a crucial difference among the sensor resolutions of the E-PL5 (16MP) and GF3 (12MP) but they use the exact same sensor size (Four Thirds).

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The E-PL5 was introduced 14 months later than the GF3 making the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going through a more detailed comparison, below is a concise view of how the E-PL5 scores against the GF3 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF3. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-PL5 Gallery and Panasonic GF3 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to lug around your camera regularly, you're going to have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL5 comes with physical measurements of 111mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.5") with a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs) and the Panasonic GF3 has dimensions of 108mm x 67mm x 32mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.3") and a weight of 264 grams (0.58 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL5 vs Panasonic GF3 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change based on the lens you choose at that moment. Here is the front view proportions comparison of the E-PL5 versus the GF3.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL5 and GF3 is 88 and 90 respectively.

Generally, it is very tough to imagine the contrast in sensor measurements just by going through a spec sheet. The graphic below should offer you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL5 and GF3.

As you can see, the 2 cameras posses the exact same sensor measurements but different resolution. You should anticipate the Olympus E-PL5 to provide greater detail using its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also let you crop photos somewhat more aggressively. The fresher E-PL5 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.