Olympus E-PM1 vs Olympus SP-590 UZ

The following is a thorough analysis of the Olympus E-PM1 vs Olympus SP-590 UZ, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Superzoom and both are designed by Olympus. The image resolution of the E-PM1 (12MP) and the SP-590 UZ (12MP) is relatively similar but the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and SP-590 UZ (1/2.3") have totally different sensor dimensions.

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The E-PM1 was launched 2 years after the SP-590 UZ which is quite a serious gap as far as tech is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus SP-590 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera.

Before we go straight to a thorough comparison, here is a concise view of how the E-PM1 grades versus the SP-590 UZ in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PM1 and Olympus SP-590 UZ. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery and Olympus SP-590 UZ Gallery.

In case you're planning to travel with your camera frequently, you will have to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PM1 comes with exterior measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) whilst the Olympus SP-590 UZ has proportions of 116mm x 84mm x 81mm (4.6" x 3.3" x 3.2") along with a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PM1 vs Olympus SP-590 UZ in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ based on the lens you are working with at the time. Here is a front view sizing comparison of the E-PM1 vs the SP-590 UZ.

Considering size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PM1 and SP-590 UZ is 89 and 72 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to see the contrast between sensor dimensions simply by reading technical specs. The picture below may provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PM1 and SP-590 UZ.

As you can tell, both cameras come with the identical resolution albeit not the same sensor dimensions. The E-PM1 uses the bigger sensor which should make getting shallower DOF simpler. The more recent E-PM1 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.