Olympus E-PL9 vs Sony NEX-5

Below, we will be reviewing the Olympus E-PL9 vs Sony NEX-5, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by competitors Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the E-PL9 (16MP) and the NEX-5 (14MP) is relatively well matched but the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and NEX-5 (APS-C) enjoy different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL9 was brought out 7 years after the NEX-5 which is quite a big gap as far as technology is concerned. Both cameras come with the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before delving through a step-by-step comparison, below is a concise summary of how the E-PL9 grades vs the NEX-5 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL9 and Sony Alpha NEX-5. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL9 Gallery and Sony NEX-5 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera, you'll need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PL9 has physical measurements of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") and a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs) while the Sony NEX-5 has measurements of 111mm x 59mm x 38mm (4.4" x 2.3" x 1.5") along with a weight of 287 grams (0.63 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PL9 vs Sony NEX-5 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary depending on the lens you are working with during that time. Below is the front view measurement comparison of the E-PL9 versus the NEX-5.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL9 and NEX-5 is 85 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be tough to imagine the difference between sensor sizes simply by checking specs. The image underneath may provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL9 and NEX-5.

All in all, both of these cameras posses different megapixel count and different sensor sizes. The E-PL9 because of its tinier sensor is going to make achieving shallow DOF tougher and the Olympus E-PL9 will resolve greater detail having its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures somewhat more aggressively. The younger E-PL9 provides a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.