Olympus E-PL9 vs Panasonic FP2

Here, we will be analyzing the Olympus E-PL9 versus Panasonic FP2, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Ultracompact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-PL9 (16MP) and the FP2 (14MP) is relatively comparable but the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and FP2 (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL9 was revealed 8 years later than the FP2 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FP2 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before going right into a thorough comparison, here is a short view of how the E-PL9 grades against the FP2 for portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL9 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP2. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-PL9 Gallery & Panasonic FP2 Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera frequently, you will have to take into account its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PL9 has exterior dimensions of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs) while the Panasonic FP2 has proportions of 99mm x 59mm x 19mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.7") and a weight of 151 grams (0.33 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PL9 versus Panasonic FP2 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you choose at that moment. Underneath is a front view physical size comparison of the E-PL9 vs the FP2.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL9 and FP2 is 85 and 95 respectively.

More often than not, its hard to envision the difference in sensor measurements just by going through a spec sheet. The photograph below will give you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL9 and FP2.

Clearly, each of these cameras come with different megapixels and different sensor measurements. The E-PL9 having a bigger sensor will make getting bokeh simpler and the Olympus E-PL9 will show greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs a good deal more aggressively. The fresher E-PL9 will have a benefit in sensor technology.