Olympus E-PL9 vs Pentax Q

Below is a in depth analysis of the Olympus E-PL9 versus Pentax Q, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Olympus and Pentax. There exists a sizable gap among the image resolutions of the E-PL9 (16MP) and Q (12MP) and the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and Q (1/2.3") enjoy totally different sensor size.

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The E-PL9 was revealed 6 years later than the Q and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight into a complete comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the E-PL9 scores vs the Q when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

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

For anyone who is going to lug around your camera often, you need to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL9 comes with exterior dimensions of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") with a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs) and the Pentax Q has specifications of 98mm x 57mm x 31mm (3.9" x 2.2" x 1.2") and a weight of 180 grams (0.40 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL9 versus Pentax Q in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you select at that moment. The following is the front view over all size comparison of the E-PL9 versus the Q.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PL9 and Q is 85 and 93 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to visualise the difference in sensor measurements just by seeing specifications. The visual below may give you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL9 and Q.

To sum up, the 2 cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor measurements. The E-PL9 with its bigger sensor will make shooting shallower depth of field easier and the Olympus E-PL9 will produce extra detail because of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also enable you to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The more modern E-PL9 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.