Olympus E-PL9 vs Samsung NX5

Here is a detailed assessment of the Olympus E-PL9 and Samsung NX5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Samsung. The image resolution of the E-PL9 (16MP) and the NX5 (15MP) is relatively similar but the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and NX5 (APS-C) feature different sensor measurements.

Meta to Introduce 'AI-Generated' Labels for Media starting next month

The E-PL9 was launched 7 years later than the NX5 and that is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Samsung NX5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a brief introduction of how the E-PL9 grades against the NX5 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL9 and Samsung NX5. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-PL9 Gallery and Samsung NX5 Gallery.

In case you're going to carry your camera, you need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PL9 has got 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) and the Samsung NX5 has measurements of 123mm x 87mm x 40mm (4.8" x 3.4" x 1.6") having a weight of 499 grams (1.10 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PL9 and Samsung NX5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you choose during that time. Following is the front view measurements comparison of the E-PL9 against the NX5.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL9 and NX5 is 85 and 80 respectively.

More often than not, it can be difficult to picture the gap between sensor sizing just by going over a spec sheet. The photograph underneath should offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PL9 and NX5.

Clearly, both of the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The E-PL9 due to its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower DOF harder and the Olympus E-PL9 will offer you extra detail utilizing its extra 1 Megapixels. Higher resolution will let you crop photographs a little more aggressively. The more modern E-PL9 provides a benefit with regard to sensor tech.