Olympus E-PL9 vs Pentax K-30

Here is a comprehensive comparison of the Olympus E-PL9 and Pentax K-30, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by brands Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the E-PL9 (16MP) and the K-30 (16MP) is pretty close but the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and K-30 (APS-C) feature different sensor measurements.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The E-PL9 was unveiled 5 years later than the K-30 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras come with different body type with the Olympus E-PL9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-30 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before diving through a full comparison, below is a quick view of how the E-PL9 grades against the K-30 for portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL9 & Pentax K-30. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL9 Gallery & Pentax K-30 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL9 comes with outside measurements of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-30 has dimensions of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") and a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL9 and Pentax K-30 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is the front view sizing comparison of the E-PL9 vs the K-30.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL9 and K-30 is 85 and 63 respectively.

Quite often, it is difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizing simply by viewing technical specs. The graphic underneath will offer you a clearer sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL9 and K-30.

As you have seen, each of the cameras have got the exact same megapixels albeit different sensor sizing. The E-PL9 comes with the smaller sensor which should make getting bokeh trickier. The more recent E-PL9 provides a benefit in sensor technology.