Olympus E-PL9 vs Samsung NX mini

Its time to look more in depth at the Olympus E-PL9 versus Samsung NX mini, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Olympus and Samsung. There is a significant difference among the sensor resolutions of the E-PL9 (16MP) and NX mini (20.5MP) and the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and NX mini (1") posses totally different sensor size.

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The E-PL9 was brought out 3 years after the NX mini which is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both the cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight to a in-depth comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the E-PL9 grades vs the NX mini in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL9 and Samsung NX mini. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL9 Gallery and Samsung NX mini Gallery.

For those who are intending to travel with your camera often, you will have to consider its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL9 has exterior dimensions 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 Samsung NX mini has specifications of 110mm x 62mm x 23mm (4.3" x 2.4" x 0.9") along with a weight of 196 grams (0.43 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL9 versus Samsung NX mini in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary dependant on the lens you select at that time. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the E-PL9 against the NX mini.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL9 and NX mini is 85 and 93 respectively.

In many cases, it is tough to envision the gap in sensor dimensions only by checking out a spec sheet. The image below may offer you a greater sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL9 and NX mini.

As you can see, each of these cameras provide different resolutions and different sensor dimensions. The E-PL9 because of its larger sensor will make achieving shallower DOF easier and the Samsung NX mini will produce extra detail having its extra 4.5 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also help you crop photos more aggressively. The more recent E-PL9 is going to have an advantage in sensor technology.