Olympus E-PM1 vs Sony A230

Here is a in-depth overview of the Olympus E-PM1 vs Sony A230, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by competitors Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the E-PM1 (12MP) and the A230 (10MP) is pretty comparable but the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and A230 (APS-C) boast totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PM1 was brought out 2 years later than the A230 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A230 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before delving into a step-by-step comparison, here is a brief summation of how the E-PM1 grades against the A230 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM1 and Sony Alpha DSLR-A230. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery and Sony A230 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry your camera frequently, you need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PM1 provides outer dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) whilst the Sony A230 has dimensions of 128mm x 97mm x 68mm (5.0" x 3.8" x 2.7") along with a weight of 490 grams (1.08 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-PM1 vs Sony A230 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you use at the time. Below is a front view size comparison of the E-PM1 versus the A230.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PM1 and A230 is 89 and 69 respectively.

Oftentimes, it can be difficult to see the gap in sensor sizing only by seeing technical specs. The photograph here should give you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PM1 and A230.

As you can tell, each of the cameras feature different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-PM1 due to its smaller sensor will make shooting shallow depth of field more challenging and the Olympus E-PM1 will provide greater detail having its extra 2MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The more recent E-PM1 is going to have an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.