Canon EOS R100 vs. Olympus Pen E-PL7: A Comprehensive Comparison of Features and Performance

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Today, we’re diving into the world of mirrorless cameras, specifically comparing the Canon EOS R100 with its bundled RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens against the Olympus PEN E-PL7 with its M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R lens. Both are popular choices for beginners and enthusiasts alike, offering a blend of affordability and versatility. This comprehensive comparison will guide you through the key features, performance, and overall value of each camera, helping you make an informed decision.

Design and Ergonomics: Compact vs. Classic

The Canon EOS R100 boasts a compact and lightweight design, making it incredibly portable. Its sleek, black body is comfortable to hold, though some might find the grip a little shallow. The Olympus PEN E-PL7, on the other hand, features a more classic, retro-inspired design with a prominent grip and a more substantial feel. It’s slightly larger and heavier than the R100, but still remains manageable.
Both cameras offer a similar button layout, with dedicated dials for shutter speed, aperture, and exposure compensation. The R100’s rear LCD screen is a tilting touchscreen, allowing for flexible viewing angles, while the E-PL7’s screen is a fixed, non-touchscreen design. The E-PL7 also features a built-in pop-up flash, a feature absent on the R100.

Image Quality: A Tale of Two Sensors

The Canon EOS R100 features a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor, while the Olympus PEN E-PL7 utilizes a 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor. The larger sensor in the R100 generally translates to better low-light performance and a wider dynamic range, capturing more detail in shadows and highlights. However, the E-PL7’s smaller sensor offers a shallower depth of field at equivalent focal lengths, making it ideal for isolating subjects with a blurred background.
Both cameras produce excellent image quality with vibrant colors and good sharpness. The R100’s autofocus system is faster and more reliable, especially in low light, thanks to its Dual Pixel CMOS AF technology. The E-PL7’s autofocus is also decent, but it can struggle in challenging conditions.

Video Capabilities: A Focus on Features

The Canon EOS R100 can record 4K video at 25/30fps, offering a wider field of view compared to the E-PL7’s 4K video at 30fps. The R100 also features a microphone input jack, allowing for external audio recording, a feature missing on the E-PL7. Both cameras support in-body image stabilization (IBIS), which helps to minimize camera shake, especially when shooting handheld video.

Lens Options: A World of Choices

The Canon EOS R100 comes bundled with the RF-S 18-45mm f/4.5-6.3 IS STM lens, offering a versatile range for everyday photography. This lens is compact and lightweight, making it perfect for travel. The Olympus PEN E-PL7 is bundled with the M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R lens, which provides a slightly wider field of view. This lens is also compact and offers good image quality.
Both camera systems offer a wide range of lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, allowing you to expand your creative possibilities. The Canon RF system is relatively new, but it’s rapidly growing, offering more and more lens options. The Olympus Micro Four Thirds system has been around for longer, providing a wider selection of lenses from various manufacturers.

Price and Value: A Matter of Perspective

The Canon EOS R100 with the RF-S 18-45mm lens is generally priced slightly higher than the Olympus PEN E-PL7 with the M.Zuiko 14-42mm lens. However, considering the R100’s larger sensor, faster autofocus, and 4K video capabilities, it offers a better value for money, especially for those who prioritize image quality and versatility.
The E-PL7, on the other hand, is a more affordable option, particularly for those who value portability and classic design. Its smaller sensor and older technology might not be ideal for professional use, but it’s perfect for casual photography and videography.

The Final Verdict: Which Camera is Right for You?

Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a versatile, high-quality camera with excellent image quality and video capabilities, the Canon EOS R100 is a great choice. Its compact design and impressive features make it a compelling option for both beginners and enthusiasts.
If you prioritize affordability, portability, and a more classic design, the Olympus PEN E-PL7 is a solid alternative. Its smaller sensor and older technology might not be as advanced as the R100, but it still delivers impressive results for everyday photography.

Beyond the Comparison: Exploring the Possibilities

Both the Canon EOS R100 and the Olympus PEN E-PL7 are excellent cameras with their own strengths and weaknesses. Whether you choose one over the other, you’ll be equipped with a powerful tool to capture stunning photos and videos.
Beyond the specifications and features, remember that the best camera is the one that you’ll use the most. Consider your personal style, shooting habits, and budget when making your decision. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different cameras and lenses to find the perfect fit for your creative journey.

Basics You Wanted To Know

Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both the Canon EOS R100 and the Olympus PEN E-PL7 are user-friendly and suitable for beginners. The R100 offers a more intuitive interface and advanced features, while the E-PL7 is simpler to use and provides a more classic shooting experience.
Q: Which camera is better for travel photography?
A: The Canon EOS R100 is slightly more compact and lightweight, making it slightly better for travel photography. However, the Olympus PEN E-PL7 is still a very portable camera and offers a wider field of view with its bundled lens.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS R100 offers better video features, including 4K video at 25/30fps, a microphone input jack, and more advanced image stabilization. The Olympus PEN E-PL7 is still capable of recording decent video, but it lacks some of the features found on the R100.
Q: Which camera has a better lens selection?
A: The Olympus Micro Four Thirds system has a wider selection of lenses from various manufacturers. However, the Canon RF system is rapidly growing, and it offers a good selection of lenses for both stills and video.
Q: Which camera is better for low-light photography?
A: The Canon EOS R100 has a larger sensor and faster autofocus, making it better for low-light photography. The Olympus PEN E-PL7 can still produce decent images in low light, but it struggles in very dark conditions.