Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic GX8

Here, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-PM1 versus Panasonic GX8, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Advanced Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Panasonic. There exists a substantial gap among the resolutions of the E-PM1 (12MP) and GX8 (20MP) but both cameras provide the identical sensor sizes (Four Thirds).

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The E-PM1 was manufactured 4 years earlier than the GX8 and that is a fairly big difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before we go into a in-depth comparison, here is a simple introduction of how the E-PM1 matches up vs the GX8 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM1 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX8. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery & Panasonic GX8 Gallery.

For those who are intending to carry your camera regularly, you need to factor in its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PM1 enjoys outer dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) whilst the Panasonic GX8 has measurements of 133mm x 78mm x 63mm (5.2" x 3.1" x 2.5") and a weight of 487 grams (1.07 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-PM1 versus Panasonic GX8 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Bear in mind, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you are working with at that time. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the E-PM1 and the GX8.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PM1 and GX8 is 89 and 74 respectively.

Sometimes, it is very difficult to visualize the gap in sensor sizing merely by checking out specs. The visual here should offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PM1 and GX8.

As you can plainly see, each of these cameras feature the identical sensor size albeit different MP. You can expect the Panasonic GX8 to show more detail due to its extra 8 Megapixels. Higher resolution will enable you to crop shots way more aggressively. The older E-PM1 will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.