Olympus E-PM2 vs Samsung NX100

Its time to look more closely at the Olympus E-PM2 vs Samsung NX100, both Entry-Level Mirrorless cameras by rivals Olympus and Samsung. The image resolution of the E-PM2 (16MP) and the NX100 (15MP) is very comparable but the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and NX100 (APS-C) offer totally different sensor measurements.

Japan-exclusive Leica Leitz Phone 3 features big sensor and new modes

The E-PM2 was revealed 2 years later than the NX100 and that is a fairly sizable difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of the cameras feature the same body design (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before going right into a comprehensive comparison, here is a brief summation of how the E-PM2 grades vs the NX100 when it comes to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus PEN E-PM2 & Samsung NX100. The full galleries are provided at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery & Samsung NX100 Gallery.

For anybody who is intending to carry your camera, you'll need to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus E-PM2 features outside dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") and a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) whilst the Samsung NX100 has specifications of 120mm x 71mm x 35mm (4.7" x 2.8" x 1.4") along with a weight of 282 grams (0.62 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PM2 vs Samsung NX100 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you select at the time. Underneath is a front view sizing comparison of the E-PM2 vs the NX100.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PM2 and NX100 is 89 and 88 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to visualise the gap in sensor sizing purely by going through a spec sheet. The visual below may provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PM2 and NX100.

As you can see, the 2 cameras come with different megapixel count and different sensor sizing. The E-PM2 having a smaller sensor will make achieving bokeh trickier and the Olympus E-PM2 will produce more detail because of its extra 1 Megapixels. Greater resolution can also allow you to crop pics a good deal more aggressively. The more recent E-PM2 is going to have a benefit with regard to sensor technology.