Olympus E-PL9 vs Panasonic FZ70

Here, we are reviewing the Olympus E-PL9 versus Panasonic FZ70, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Small Sensor Superzoom by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-PL9 (16MP) and the FZ70 (16MP) is very similar but the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and FZ70 (1/2.3") boast different sensor sizing.

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The E-PL9 was introduced 4 years after the FZ70 which is quite a big gap as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic FZ70 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a short summation of how the E-PL9 grades vs the FZ70 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Here is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PL9 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ70. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-PL9 Gallery and Panasonic FZ70 Gallery.

For anybody who is going to travel with your camera frequently, you should factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PL9 features physical dimensions of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") having a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs) while the Panasonic FZ70 has measurements of 130mm x 97mm x 118mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 4.6") having a weight of 606 grams (1.34 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PL9 versus Panasonic FZ70 in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are working with at that moment. Following is a front view size comparison of the E-PL9 against the FZ70.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the E-PL9 and FZ70 is 85 and 63 respectively.

Usually, it is tough to imagine the contrast between sensor dimensions purely by reviewing a spec sheet. The picture below will help provide you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL9 and FZ70.

Clearly, the 2 cameras come with the identical resolution but different sensor dimensions. The E-PL9 provides the larger sensor which should make obtaining shallow DOF easier. The more modern E-PL9 should have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.