Olympus E-PM1 vs Sony WX5

Here, we will be evaluating the Olympus E-PM1 and Sony WX5, one being a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by brands Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the E-PM1 (12MP) and the WX5 (12MP) is pretty well matched but the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and WX5 (1/2.3") offer totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PM1 was revealed 17 months later than the WX5 which makes them a generation apart from one another. Both cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony WX5 being a Compact camera.

Before delving right into a in depth comparison, here is a simple synopsis of how the E-PM1 scores vs the WX5 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM1 and Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX5. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery and Sony WX5 Gallery.

If you're aiming to carry your camera frequently, you will need to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PM1 comes with external dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") with a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) while the Sony WX5 has dimensions of 92mm x 52mm x 22mm (3.6" x 2.0" x 0.9") and a weight of 146 grams (0.32 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus E-PM1 and Sony WX5 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change dependant on the lens you are utilising at that moment. Underneath is a front view dimension comparison of the E-PM1 vs the WX5.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PM1 and WX5 is 89 and 95 respectively.

Normally, it's hard to visualise the contrast between sensor sizing just by reading through a spec sheet. The photograph here will offer you a stronger sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PM1 and WX5.

Clearly, both of these cameras come with the identical megapixels albeit not the same sensor sizing. The E-PM1 provides the bigger sensor which should make achieving shallower DOF easier. The fresher E-PM1 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.