Olympus E-PM2 vs Samsung NX3000

In this write-up, we will be comparing the Olympus E-PM2 vs Samsung NX3000, both Entry-Level Mirrorless digital cameras by brands Olympus and Samsung. The sensor resolution of the E-PM2 (16MP) and the NX3000 (20MP) is pretty well matched but the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and NX3000 (APS-C) use different sensor sizes.

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The E-PM2 was brought out 12 months prior to the NX3000 which means that they are both of a similar generation. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Rangefinder-style mirrorless).

Before diving in to a in-depth comparison, below is a simple summation of how the E-PM2 scores versus the NX3000 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM2 and Samsung NX3000. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery and Samsung NX3000 Gallery.

If you are going to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PM2 offers outside measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) while the Samsung NX3000 has measurements of 117mm x 66mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.6" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PM2 vs Samsung NX3000 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you have attached at that moment. Below is the front view physical size comparison of the E-PM2 against the NX3000.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PM2 and NX3000 is 89 and 89 respectively.

Typically, it's difficult to imagine the gap between sensor sizing just by checking a spec sheet. The photograph underneath should provide you a greater sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PM2 and NX3000.

Clearly, each of these cameras offer different megapixels and different sensor sizing. The E-PM2 featuring a tinier sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF harder and the Samsung NX3000 will resolve greater detail having its extra 4 Megapixels. Higher resolution can also make it easier to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older E-PM2 is going to be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.