Budget series Pen literally clutched in a vice: on the one hand, to create unnecessary competition for the older E-P3 is undesirable, on the other hand, propped up by the new “junior” and the most inexpensive category E-PM. Tight frame played to its strengths. The Olympus E-PL3 has proven to be a real sweet spot within the model range: compact, functional and relatively affordable.
Resolution – 12.3 MP, Zoom – 14-42 mm, Display – 3″, F3.5-5.6
The PL3 is compact, pretty, functional and relatively inexpensive. Within the family, this is the real sweet spot.
The E-PL3 takes all the functionality of the older E-P3. 12 megapixel sensor with the system of stabilization, fast electronics, redesigned interface and menu with enhanced opportunities for user adjustment, fast focusing and good performance continuous shooting, Full HD video recording at up to 60 fps in interlaced mode and interesting digital effects.
The hot shoe and the proprietary universal port underneath for connecting external accessories remain. Only reduced the number of controls, eliminated the built-in flash instead offering a small external flash and changed the functionality of the display – instead of touch-sensitive OLED in the E-PL3 is “normal” LCD screen, but equipped with a flip mount.
The screen at that is in 16:9 format, which adds points to the appearance and is useful when working with video, but a little strange for a camera with a 4/3 format sensor.
Besides fewer buttons, the camera has simplified design and smaller size: 110×64×37 mm and weighs a little over 300 grams with batteries.
In this format, this camera turns out to be a good upgrade for compact users who want to move into a new class without much loss of portability. A good choice for photographers who want to upgrade to the big E-P3 but aren’t satisfied with its price and size.
The E-PL3 appeals to amateur photographers who want to move up from the compact class to the “system” class with minimal loss of portability. And also for those who, for whatever reason, dream of the older E-P3, but aren’t ready to accept its price and size.
Could you please provide more information about the specific features and benefits of the Olympus E-PL3 mirrorless camera that make it an ideal choice for someone looking to step into the “system” class? How does it compare to other cameras in terms of image quality, functionality, and overall performance?
How does the Olympus E-PL3 mirrorless camera compare to other cameras in terms of portability and performance in the “system” class?