Olympus E-PM1 vs Pentax ist DL2

On this page, we will be analyzing the Olympus E-PM1 versus Pentax ist DL2, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Advanced DSLR by competitors Olympus and Pentax. There is a substantial difference between the image resolutions of the E-PM1 (12MP) and ist DL2 (6MP) and the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and ist DL2 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor size.

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The E-PM1 was launched 5 years later than the ist DL2 and that is quite a big difference as far as tech is concerned. The two cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax ist DL2 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a concise highlight of how the E-PM1 matches up against the ist DL2 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PM1 & Pentax ist DL2. The complete galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery & Pentax ist DL2 Gallery.

If you are looking to carry your camera often, you'll need to factor in its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PM1 enjoys physical dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) and the Pentax ist DL2 has sizing of 125mm x 93mm x 66mm (4.9" x 3.7" x 2.6") accompanied by a weight of 565 grams (1.25 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PM1 versus Pentax ist DL2 in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you are utilising during that time. The following is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-PM1 and the ist DL2.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the E-PM1 and ist DL2 is 89 and 69 respectively.

Generally, it is difficult to visualise the gap between sensor sizing simply by reading through a spec sheet. The graphic below might give you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PM1 and ist DL2.

As you can see, both of the cameras provide different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-PM1 due to its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower DOF trickier and the Olympus E-PM1 will resolve more detail utilizing its extra 6MP. Higher resolution will make it easier to crop shots more aggressively. The newer E-PM1 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor technology.