Olympus E-PL8 vs Samsung NX100

Following is a thorough assessment of the Olympus E-PL8 and Samsung NX100, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by manufacturers Olympus and Samsung. The resolution of the E-PL8 (16MP) and the NX100 (15MP) is relatively comparable but the E-PL8 (Four Thirds) and NX100 (APS-C) come with totally different sensor sizing.

Samsung Releases Faster Versions of EVO MicroSD Cards

The E-PL8 was introduced 6 years after the NX100 which is a fairly large gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go in to a in depth comparison, below is a short summation of how the E-PL8 grades vs the NX100 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL8 and Samsung NX100. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-PL8 Gallery and Samsung NX100 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera frequently, you will have to factor its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PL8 provides physical measurements of 115mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 1.5") and a weight of 357 grams (0.79 lbs) while the Samsung NX100 has sizing of 120mm x 71mm x 35mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") and a weight of 282 grams (0.62 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-PL8 and Samsung NX100 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use during that time. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the E-PL8 vs the NX100.

Using size and weight, the portability score of the E-PL8 and NX100 is 86 and 88 respectively.

Generally, it is tough to envision the difference in sensor sizes purely by checking out a spec sheet. The picture underneath should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL8 and NX100.

Clearly, both of the cameras enjoy different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The E-PL8 with its smaller sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field trickier and the Olympus E-PL8 will provide greater detail using its extra 1MP. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs far more aggressively. The more recent E-PL8 is going to have a benefit in sensor technology.