Olympus E-PM2 vs Pentax K-30

Its time to take a closer look at the Olympus E-PM2 versus Pentax K-30, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Advanced DSLR by manufacturers Olympus and Pentax. The resolution of the E-PM2 (16MP) and the K-30 (16MP) is very well matched but the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and K-30 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PM2 was announced 7 months later than the K-30 which means that they are both of a similar age. Each of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K-30 being a Mid-size SLR camera.

Before we go into a step-by-step comparison, here is a short introduction of how the E-PM2 scores against the K-30 in regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PM2 & Pentax K-30. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery & Pentax K-30 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to carry your camera, you will need to take into account its weight and size. The Olympus E-PM2 features exterior dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) while the Pentax K-30 has specifications of 130mm x 97mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8") along with a weight of 650 grams (1.43 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PM2 versus Pentax K-30 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you choose during that time. The following is a front view physical size comparison of the E-PM2 vs the K-30.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PM2 and K-30 is 89 and 63 respectively.

Normally, it is very hard to visualise the gap between sensor sizing only by reading through technical specs. The graphic below should give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PM2 and K-30.

As you can tell, both of the cameras come with the identical megapixel count but not the same sensor sizing. The E-PM2 offers the tinier sensor which is going to make obtaining bokeh trickier. The younger E-PM2 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.