Olympus E-PM1 vs Sony WX1

Lets examine more closely at the Olympus E-PM1 and Sony WX1, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Ultracompact by brands Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the E-PM1 (12MP) and the WX1 (10MP) is fairly well matched but the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and WX1 (1/2.4") enjoy totally different sensor measurements.

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The E-PM1 was unveiled 2 years later than the WX1 and that is quite a significant gap as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony WX1 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before going in to a in-depth comparison, below is a brief overview of how the E-PM1 matches up versus the WX1 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PM1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX1. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery and Sony WX1 Gallery.

When you are planning to carry your camera often, you'll have to factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PM1 features external 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 Sony WX1 has dimensions of 91mm x 52mm x 20mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.8") having a weight of 149 grams (0.33 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PM1 and Sony WX1 in the all new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you use at that moment. Here is the front view size comparison of the E-PM1 and the WX1.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PM1 and WX1 is 89 and 96 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to see the gap between sensor sizing simply by reading through specifications. The photograph underneath might provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PM1 and WX1.

To sum up, both the cameras offer different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-PM1 having a larger sensor will make getting shallower DOF easier and the Olympus E-PM1 will give you extra detail having an extra 2MP. Greater resolution will allow you to crop photos a little more aggressively. The fresher E-PM1 is going to have an advantage in sensor technology.