Olympus E-PM1 vs Samsung NX100

Let's look more closely at the Olympus E-PM1 and Samsung NX100, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by rivals Olympus and Samsung. The resolution of the E-PM1 (12MP) and the NX100 (15MP) is relatively well matched but the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and NX100 (APS-C) provide totally different sensor dimensions.

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The E-PM1 was unveiled 15 months after the NX100 which makes them a generation away from each other. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going straight to a in depth comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the E-PM1 grades vs the NX100 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PM1 and Samsung NX100. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery and Samsung NX100 Gallery.

For anybody who is aiming to carry around your camera, you will want to factor in its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PM1 enjoys outer measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) while the Samsung NX100 has proportions of 120mm x 71mm x 35mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") accompanied by a weight of 282 grams (0.62 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PM1 and Samsung NX100 in the all new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you select at the time. The following is a front view proportions comparison of the E-PM1 vs the NX100.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the E-PM1 and NX100 is 89 and 88 respectively.

Often, it can be tough to visualise the difference between sensor sizes purely by looking at specs. The picture underneath may provide you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PM1 and NX100.

As you can plainly see, both the cameras provide different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-PM1 having a tinier sensor will make achieving bokeh more challenging and the Samsung NX100 will give extra detail having an extra 3MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures more aggressively. The younger E-PM1 is going to have an advantage with regard to sensor technology.