OlympusE-pl1
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Olympus E-PL1 review
It seems like such a simple thing now, but it took Olympus three revisions to finally get its "Pen" Micro Four Thirds series down below (or even close to) the magical $600 mark. Lucky for us, the E-PL1 doesn't skimp on functionality, and in fact expands on the capabilities of the E-P1 and E-P2 with an integrated pop-up flash. We already rounded up some reviews from the big boys, so check out those in-depth walkthroughs if you're looking to get nerdy, but if you'd still like to hear our thoughts on this new shooter, follow along in our mini-review after the break. %Gallery-89541%
Olympus Pen E-PL1 spins up a review cycle
Olympus' E-PL1 is a camera on a mission -- it not only shrinks the entry-level price tag for Micro Four Thirds cameras to $600, it retains the same 12.3 megapixel sensor, image processor, autofocus and metering systems of its elder, the E-P1, while introducing its own advantages that even the pricier E-P2 doesn't offer (hello, integrated flash!). With a 720p movie mode, a 14-42mm kit lens, and access to the growing catalog of Micro Four Thirds glass, it really looks like a guaranteed win for the company, but it's always good to run it through a few tests to make sure. While it sports a body rather richer in plastic than its senior siblings, we're told the E-PL1 still feels robust in the hand, and its control scheme is commended for being accessible to novices and including a dedicated video recording button. Image quality is ranked, as was to be expected, right on par with the costlier models with only the more professionally inclined ISO 3200 and 1/2000th shutter speed proving limiting. Get reading for fuller impressions as well as some sample video shot with the E-PL1. Read - Photography Blog Read - Pocket-lint Read - dpreview Read - CNET Read - Imaging Resource
Olympus intros $600 12.3 megapixel PEN E-PL1 Micro Four Thirds camera
It certainly took them long enough, but Olympus has finally (finally!) introduced a Micro Four Thirds camera with a price tag that's a little closer to earth. If you'll recall, both of the previous PENs cost upwards of $750, but the E-PL1 touts a much more reasonable MSRP of $599.99. And that doesn't mean Olympus has been stingy on features. Nope, quite the contrary as the the minuscule body is packed with the same 12.3 megapixel image sensor as the E-30 and E-620 (check the images in the gallery to see a size comparison of the actual sensors), in-body image stabilization, continuous autofocus, a 2.7-inch rear LCD, HD movie mode, in-camera "art filters" and a bundled ED 14-42mm f3.5/5.6 zoom lens (28-84mm equivalent in 35mm cameras). Oh and don't forget the addition of the pop-up flash which just reminds us of E.T. You won't be able to nab a E-PL1 until next month, but hit the break for some of our hands-on impressions. %Gallery-84512% %Gallery-84408%
