Olympus E-PM2 vs Sony A57

Here is a complete comparison of the Olympus E-PM2 vs Sony A57, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Entry-Level DSLR by brands Olympus and Sony. The resolution of the E-PM2 (16MP) and the A57 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and A57 (APS-C) feature different sensor sizing.

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The E-PM2 was released 9 months later than the A57 so they are both of a similar age. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Sony A57 being a Compact SLR camera.

Before getting straight into a detailed comparison, below is a concise summation of how the E-PM2 matches up vs the A57 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PM2 & Sony SLT-A57. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery & Sony A57 Gallery.

For anyone who is intending to carry your camera, you need to think about its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PM2 features outside dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) and the Sony A57 has measurements of 132mm x 98mm x 81mm (5.2" x 3.9" x 3.2") having a weight of 618 grams (1.36 lbs).

Compare the Olympus E-PM2 vs Sony A57 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will change dependant on the lens you use at that moment. The following is the front view scale comparison of the E-PM2 compared to the A57.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PM2 and A57 is 89 and 64 respectively.

Normally, it is difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor sizing purely by looking at a spec sheet. The photograph below might give you a better sense of the sensor sizes in the E-PM2 and A57.

Clearly, each of these cameras offer the same exact megapixels albeit different sensor sizing. The E-PM2 provides the tinier sensor which should make achieving shallow DOF tougher. The more modern E-PM2 should have an advantage when it comes to sensor innovation.