Olympus E-PM2 vs Pentax K-3

Following is a comprehensive overview of the Olympus E-PM2 versus Pentax K-3, one is a Entry-Level Mirrorless and the other is a Advanced DSLR by companies Olympus and Pentax. There is a big difference among the sensor resolutions of the E-PM2 (16MP) and K-3 (24MP) and the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and K-3 (APS-C) feature different sensor size.

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The E-PM2 was introduced 10 months earlier than the K-3 so they are of a similar generation. Both of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-3 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before delving in to a full comparison, below is a simple view of how the E-PM2 grades versus the K-3 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Below is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PM2 and Pentax K-3. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery and Pentax K-3 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera often, you should factor its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PM2 features exterior dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Pentax K-3 has dimensions of 131mm x 100mm x 77mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.0") having a weight of 800 grams (1.76 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PM2 versus Pentax K-3 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 choose during that time. Underneath is the front view overall size comparison of the E-PM2 compared to the K-3.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PM2 and K-3 is 89 and 59 respectively.

In many cases, it's tough to visualize the difference in sensor sizes simply by researching a spec sheet. The picture below will help offer you a better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PM2 and K-3.

As you can see, each of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-PM2 having a smaller sensor is going to make getting shallow depth of field more difficult and the Pentax K-3 will render extra detail using its extra 8 Megapixels. Greater resolution will allow you to crop images a little more aggressively. The more aged E-PM2 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.