Olympus E-PM2 vs Pentax K100D S

Here, we are reviewing the Olympus E-PM2 vs Pentax K100D S, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Olympus and Pentax. There is a large difference between the image resolutions of the E-PM2 (16MP) and K100D S (6MP) and the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and K100D S (APS-C) offer totally different sensor measurements.

Photography Glossary

The E-PM2 was announced 5 years later than the K100D S and that is quite a serious difference as far as tech is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Pentax K100D S being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting into a detailed comparison, here is a brief synopsis of how the E-PM2 grades vs the K100D S when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PM2 & Pentax K100D Super. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery & Pentax K100D S Gallery.

When you are going to carry your camera frequently, you will want to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PM2 enjoys external measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") having a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) and the Pentax K100D S has sizing of 129mm x 91mm x 71mm (5.1" x 3.6" x 2.8") accompanied by a weight of 646 grams (1.42 lbs).

Look at the Olympus E-PM2 vs Pentax K100D S in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you use at the time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-PM2 and the K100D S.

Considering size and weight, the portability rating of the E-PM2 and K100D S is 89 and 65 respectively.

Generally, it can be hard to see the gap between sensor sizing just by reviewing a spec sheet. The graphic below may offer you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PM2 and K100D S.

Clearly, the two cameras come with different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The E-PM2 having a tinier sensor will make shooting shallow DOF more challenging and the Olympus E-PM2 will deliver greater detail with its extra 10MP. Greater resolution will also allow you to crop photos a good deal more aggressively. The more modern E-PM2 will have a benefit when it comes to sensor tech.