Olympus E-PL9 vs Panasonic LZ40

Following is a in depth analysis of the Olympus E-PL9 versus Panasonic LZ40, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The resolution of the E-PL9 (16MP) and the LZ40 (20MP) is relatively similar but the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and LZ40 (1/2.3") have totally different sensor size.

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The E-PL9 was revealed 4 years after the LZ40 which is quite a large difference as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PL9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic LZ40 being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before getting into a detailed comparison, here is a quick summary of how the E-PL9 grades versus the LZ40 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL9 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL9 Gallery & Panasonic LZ40 Gallery.

In case you're looking to carry around your camera often, you have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PL9 features outside measurements 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 LZ40 has measurements of 126mm x 87mm x 94mm (5.0" x 3.4" x 3.7") along with a weight of 524 grams (1.16 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-PL9 versus Panasonic LZ40 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you select at that moment. Following is a front view measurements comparison of the E-PL9 vs the LZ40.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL9 and LZ40 is 85 and 67 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to see the gap between sensor sizes simply by reading specifications. The picture here should provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL9 and LZ40.

To sum up, both of these cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor sizes. The E-PL9 using its bigger sensor will make shooting bokeh simpler and the Panasonic LZ40 will offer you extra detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also enable you to crop shots more aggressively. The fresher E-PL9 will have an advantage when it comes to sensor technology.