Olympus E-PL8 vs Samsung NX300

In this write-up, we will be contrasting the Olympus E-PL8 and Samsung NX300, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Olympus and Samsung. The image resolution of the E-PL8 (16MP) and the NX300 (20MP) is pretty similar but the E-PL8 (Four Thirds) and NX300 (APS-C) possess totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL8 was unveiled 2 years after the NX300 which is quite a serious gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving in to a complete comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the E-PL8 matches up against the NX300 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL8 and Samsung NX300. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL8 Gallery and Samsung NX300 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry around your camera, you will want to factor its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL8 features exterior dimensions of 115mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 1.5") with a weight of 357 grams (0.79 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX300 has specifications of 122mm x 64mm x 41mm (4.8" x 2.5" x 1.6") with a weight of 331 grams (0.73 lbs).

See the Olympus E-PL8 and Samsung NX300 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you use at the time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the E-PL8 versus the NX300.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL8 and NX300 is 86 and 86 respectively.

Quite often, its hard to envision the gap between sensor sizes just by reviewing specs. The pic underneath might give you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL8 and NX300.

All in all, both the cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The E-PL8 using its tinier sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field more challenging and the Samsung NX300 will deliver more detail having an extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop pictures far more aggressively. The younger E-PL8 is going to have an advantage in sensor tech.