Olympus E-PL5 vs Panasonic TS20

Here, we will be reviewing the Olympus E-PL5 vs Panasonic TS20, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Waterproof by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-PL5 (16MP) and the TS20 (16MP) is relatively comparable but the E-PL5 (Four Thirds) and TS20 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL5 was revealed 8 months after the TS20 and they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL5 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic TS20 being a Compact camera.

Before delving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the E-PL5 scores against the TS20 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL5 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS20. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL5 Gallery and Panasonic TS20 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry around your camera, you will need to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PL5 provides outside measurements of 111mm x 64mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 325 grams (0.72 lbs) while the Panasonic TS20 has proportions of 101mm x 58mm x 19mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") and a weight of 142 grams (0.31 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PL5 vs Panasonic TS20 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are using at that time. Below is a front view proportions comparison of the E-PL5 vs the TS20.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL5 and TS20 is 88 and 95 respectively.

Typically, it can be hard to envision the contrast in sensor sizes merely by seeing specifications. The image here should provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL5 and TS20.

To sum up, both cameras feature the identical megapixel count albeit not the same sensor sizes. The E-PL5 uses the bigger sensor which is going to make achieving shallower depth of field simpler. The more modern E-PL5 will have an edge when it comes to sensor tech.