E-P2 or E-PL1?

[Dogcow]

I am considering buying a micro 4/3rd as 'backup' for my E-3 and as lightweight 'always with me' camera.
(And make use of the free 4/3 adapter offer)

So the two options I think are the E-P2 or the E-PL1.
And I could use some user input to sharpen my thoughts about this upcoming decision.

So: what are your experiences/thoughts?
Any input is welcome.

Thanks!

Karel

[tomke]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

Hello Karel,

I wanted to post the same question, when I saw yours . I am considering the same and just like you I am curious to know which of the two is preferred.
Hope someone will share his/her experiences.

[Guest]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

Well I doubt whether there is a large pupulation really familiar enough with both to provide an answer.

As an E-PL1 user all I can say is the reliance on buttons (rather than thumbwheels) is not as restrictive as you'd expect. It is not really a camera for fast action photography anyway so the lack of thumbwheels is more an impact on your pride rather than on function. The build quality certainly seems good, and the onboard flash (albeit of modest spec) is useful. The slightly grippier body is also an advantage. The general concensus of reviews is that the tuning of the image engine, sensor, filter is probably the best so-far for IQ.

The E-P2, well you do get the VF-2 and the thumbwheels. And I'd recommend having a vf-2. Some prefer the look of the body.

I don't think you can go much wrong with either, look at the online prices and make the best deal that you can. There really doesn't seem to be a 'killer' difference between the two.

Nick

[Dogcow]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

Thanks, Nick. The VF-2 is indeed a valid point to consider.

I also noticed on further investigation that there is still no RAW support for the E-PL1 on OS X. The E-P2 is supported.
Those two might be the decisive factor...


@Wilma: maybe we should talk directly to each other some time to consider our points. And who knows, I we're buying two we might get a discount (or am I acting too Dutch now...? )


Karel

[tomke]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

Thanks Nick and Karel,

I think it is good to consider the EP2 because of the VF, and the thumbwheels. I always carry around a Sony DSC-H10, a great compact, but without a VF, no possibilities for shooting in RAW and no thumbwheels (very annoying sometimes - too slow). You don't think the absence of a flash will be a problem? Sometimes a little bit of extra light is necessary. In that case the EP-1 is a better option, because I do not want to take an extra flash with me all the time.

As far as the costs are concerned.... typically Dutch indeed, Karel. In this way we will never loose the image , but you are right, a bit of a discount (+ the free adapter) is not bad at all.

By the way, Karel, I just received an e-mail from Foto Konijnenberg. They have a demo day for the Pen-cameras soon (10th June - Den Haag, 11th June - Den Ham). Check their site for more info. I do not live near Den Ham or Den Haag, so for me it will be no option to go there, but perhaps for you it might be.

[Paulpp]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

I thought OSX now supported the E-P1 - my version of Aperture does?

[Dogcow]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

Yes, the E-P1 and E-P2 are supported, but the E-PL1 not (yet).


@Wilma: You've got a PM.
And yes, I also received the mailing from 'Konijnenburg', I'll probably will visit the session in Den Ham at the 11th of june

[Paulpp]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

Whoops misread E-P1.
I gave the E-P2 alot of thought but in the end decided that the electronic viewfinder whilst very useful also destroyed what I wanted as a (just) pocketable camera.
I use a 28mm Ricoh viewfinder when in bright sunlight and want an indication of area to be covered. I just ensure I frame larger than the subject so I can crop later.

[StephenL]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

Just come across this thread as I'm just back from holiday. Took my E-30 and E-P2. E-30 stayed in bag all the time. E-P2 went EVERYWHERE - and it is pocketable WITH the finder, as long as you've biggish pockets. Also great on the Y Strap. It's great to handle and very satisfying. Highly recommended.

[Dogcow]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

Thanks for all reactions.

@PaulP: I thought that the VF-2 was optional and you could use the E-P2 without it, if you want?

@StephenL: Yes, I realised that this could be the biggest 'disadvantage', and my E-3 will not be happy with the new companion...

Next step: trying to get both cameras in my hand, side by side.

[Paulpp]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

I agree - you don't have to use the electronic viewfinder but I didn't want to pay for something I might well not use

[deckitout]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

Stephen

Have you a picture of that strap on the EP2?

thanks Phil

Just come across this thread as I'm just back from holiday. Took my E-30 and E-P2. E-30 stayed in bag all the time. E-P2 went EVERYWHERE - and it is pocketable WITH the finder, as long as you've biggish pockets. Also great on the Y Strap. It's great to handle and very satisfying. Highly recommended.

[StephenL]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

There you are, modelled by wife (not me in the skirt!):

Stephen

Have you a picture of that strap on the EP2?

thanks Phil

[deckitout]

Re: E-P2 or E-PL1?

thanks a lot Stephen

[Dogcow]