Olympus PEN E-PL1
Announced February 3, 2010
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
Olympus PEN E-PL1 delivers DSLR-style picture quality and interchangeable lens flexibility within a compact, budget-friendly body. That said, the camera suffers from sluggish autofocus and a clumsy interface that can frustrate users looking for a fast, responsive shooting experience.
Weighted from 22 reviewer scores
Pros
- Strong image quality with excellent detail and low noise performance
- Compact, portable chassis with solid build quality
- Helpful built-in flash and sensor-shift image stabilization
- Beginner-friendly Live Guide for adjusting settings
- Versatile accessory port for external viewfinders or microphones
Cons
- Sluggish autofocus performance and slow operation
- Low-resolution LCD screen that is difficult to use in bright light
- Clumsy menu system and lack of dedicated control dials
- Short battery life and poor audio recording quality
- Ergonomic issues with accidental button triggers
- Launch price $599 (USD)
- Sensor 12.3MP Micro Four Thirds CMOS
What the Reviewers Say
All 22 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- DPReview 69/100
Olympus adds point-and-shootability to its retro mirrorless PEN range. A vast array of custom options don't undermine its out-of-the-box capability. Only compact-camera-like controls and build prevent it being a PEN for everyone.
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[T]he Olympus E-PL1 is not only a great photographic tool (especially for the money), but a fun camera to shoot with as well.
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Photographers looking for an affordable Micro Four Thirds camera should be impressed with the E-PL1, but there are still a few finishing touches that need to be made to make it perfect for those starting out in photography.
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It’s another nice little camera from Olympus which will only aid to bolster the MFT (Micro Four Thirds) market and adds a budget model into the range.
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Beginners in particularly should seriously consider the E-PL1 if they've out-grown their compact, while it also represents something of a bargain for prosumers if you can live with the simpler interface.
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The general impression of the Olympus Pen E-PL1 is not that this is a cut-down version of the E-P2, but that it is well-made high-spec compact camera that has been equipped with interchangeable lenses.
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[T]he Olympus E-PL1 indicates the direction for hybrid models, then the outlook is certainly positive.
- Digital Trends 8/10
Olympus’ PEN E-PL1 makes a resounding case for the emerging Micro Four Thirds format by shedding the bulk of DSLR but preserving outstanding picture quality.
- CNET 7.4/10
Reasonably priced for an interchangeable-lens model, with the same high-quality photos of its siblings, the E-PL1 nevertheless suffers from slow performance that makes it a poor choice for snapshooters looking to upgrade.
- Photo Review 8.5/10
While offering the same 12.3-megapixel Live MOS sensor, SSWF dust removal system and TruePic V image processor as the E-P2, the new model is smaller and lighter in construction [...]
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So I can HIGHLY recommend the E-PL1 and I still recommend the EP-2. Think of the E-PL1 if you are new to digital photography or just want the best IQ out of the m4/3 format.
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When it comes to shooting with the camera, the E-PL1 is fast and responsive, though it does take a brief moment to automatically determine focus and exposure, confirmed with an affirmative bleep.
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[T]he E-PL1 does have some limitations, it’s a very good camera for beginners looking to develop their skills.
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Excellent image stabilization and strong picture quality, coupled with a chassis that's easy to pocket and long battery life, add up to a compelling option for the photographer who wants DSLR-style flexibility in a highly mobile package.
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Do not get me wrong, I did get some good shots from the E-PL1 even shooting in 2020, and the camera is not half bad. It can still perform and deliver good results, but it is also difficult to recommend anyone to get this camera now.
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I can recommend the Olympus E-PL1 if (and it's a big if) you can live with the screen and the accidental settings problem.
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This is a highly likeable camera and is an ideal bridge for compact owners to cross on their way to the upper levels of DSLR ownership.
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Right now the Olympus E-PL1 is something of a "best bang for the buck" camera even though it might not be quite on the cutting edge of 4/3 MILC technology.
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The Olympus PEN E-PL1 offers up a very flexible package with superb build quality and excellent handling.
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The Olympus E-PL1 is substantially cheaper than the more prestigious E-P1 and E-P2 models, and it really does feel it.
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It’s not ready for pros, but for serious amateurs, the E-PL1 is just shy of perfect.
- TechShout 8.7/10
The Olympus Pen E-PL1 camera offers you a complete retro look embedded with loads of stunning features that can be expected in any DSLR camera or HD camcorder.
