Olympus E-PL1 Conclusions

CONCLUSION
The Olympus E-PL1 is the cheapest of the Olympus Digital PEN cameras, rolling onto the scene with a 14-42mm kit lens and body for $599. The E-PL1 is compact, stylish and well-priced for its features. It has an image sensor that is larger than a point-and-shoot, and offers the ability to change different lenses. It also comes with most of the same specs as its two predecessors, the E-P1 and E-P2.

Minus a few functions like higher ISOs and shutter speeds, the E-PL1 is a worthy successor to both those cameras, if not an improved one. With a pop-up flash, superior image quality, a size just slightly larger than a point-and-shoot and its powerful processor, the camera earns its niche between advanced point-and-shoots and entry-level DSLRs.

The E-PL1 is the first affordable Micro Four Thirds camera that has HD video and DSLR-like features for about $600. It's a worthy investment for people who want to step up from their advanced point-and-shoots and for shutterbugs who want a back-up camera for street shooting. Although it lacks a viewfinder and has a slower AF, you can't beat the camera's price for what it delivers - great images and versatility. Look at the E-PL1 closely, regardless of shooting skills. Many photographers are going to find something they like about it.

Pros:

• Great image quality
• Little noise in low light
• Compact design
• Powerful Art Filters
• Affordable price

Cons:

• AF sluggish, especially in low light
• No viewfinder
• Slower maximum shutter speed
• Camera body not as solid, stylish as predecessors

Individual Ratings: *

Image/Video Quality 
Features 
Design/Ease of Use 
Performance 
* Ratings averaged to produce final score