Olympus E-PL5 vs Panasonic SZ5

Here, we are comparing the Olympus E-PL5 versus Panasonic SZ5, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PL5 (16MP) and the SZ5 (14MP) is very well matched but the E-PL5 (Four Thirds) and SZ5 (1/2.3") provide totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL5 was released 3 months later than the SZ5 which means that they are both of a similar age. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic SZ5 being a Compact camera.

Before diving into a full comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the E-PL5 grades versus the SZ5 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PL5 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-SZ5. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL5 Gallery & Panasonic SZ5 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry your camera, you will want to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PL5 features outer measurements 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 Panasonic SZ5 has sizing of 104mm x 58mm x 21mm (4.1" x 2.3" x 0.8") and a weight of 136 grams (0.30 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PL5 versus Panasonic SZ5 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you use at that time. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the E-PL5 versus the SZ5.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL5 and SZ5 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Quite often, it can be tough to visualise the gap between sensor sizing merely by reading through specifications. The photograph here will offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL5 and SZ5.

To sum up, the two cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-PL5 due to its larger sensor will make getting shallower depth of field simpler and the Olympus E-PL5 will resolve extra detail as a result of its extra 2MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop images way more aggressively.