Olympus E-PL9 vs Pentax RZ18

Following is a complete review of the Olympus E-PL9 vs Pentax RZ18, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom by competitors Olympus and Pentax. The image resolution of the E-PL9 (16MP) and the RZ18 (16MP) is relatively similar but the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and RZ18 (1/2.3") feature different sensor measurements.

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The E-PL9 was launched 6 years after the RZ18 which is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax RZ18 being a Compact camera.

Before delving straight into a complete comparison, below is a simple introduction of how the E-PL9 matches up against the RZ18 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL9 & Pentax Optio RZ18. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL9 Gallery & Pentax RZ18 Gallery.

In case you're aiming to carry around your camera regularly, you'll need to factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL9 offers external dimensions of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") along with a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs) while the Pentax RZ18 has dimensions of 97mm x 61mm x 33mm (3.8" x 2.4" x 1.3") and a weight of 178 grams (0.39 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-PL9 vs Pentax RZ18 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you select at that moment. Underneath is the front view measurement comparison of the E-PL9 against the RZ18.

Taking into account size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL9 and RZ18 is 85 and 92 respectively.

In many cases, it is difficult to picture the gap between sensor sizes merely by reading technical specs. The pic below might provide you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL9 and RZ18.

As you have seen, both of those cameras offer the same exact resolution albeit different sensor sizes. The E-PL9 contains the bigger sensor which should make achieving shallow depth of field easier. The more modern E-PL9 should have a benefit in sensor innovation.