Size and weight is a big decision factor when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, We are going to illustrate Nikon L31 and Olympus E-PM1 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Nikon L31 has external dimensions of 96 x 59 x 29 mm (3.78 x 2.32 x 1.14″) and weighs 160 g (0.35 lb / 5.64 oz) (including batteries). Olympus E-PM1 has external dimensions of 110 x 64 x 34 mm (4.33 x 2.52 x 1.34″) and weighs 265 g (0.58 lb / 9.35 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front view size comparison of Nikon L31 and Olympus E-PM1. Nikon L31 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 14mm narrower, 5mm shorter and 5mm thinner than Olympus E-PM1. As you can tell, actually this is not a fair size comparison since Nikon L31 has a built-in lens but Olympus E-PM1 doesn't. Once you put a lens on E-PM1, its thickness will increase significantly.
Comparison image of Nikon L31 and Olympus E-PM1 Size, Weight and External Dimensions - Front View
Here is the back view size comparison of Nikon L31 and Olympus E-PM1.
Comparison image of Nikon L31 and Olympus E-PM1 Size and Weight - Back View
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Nikon L31 and Olympus E-PM1.
Top View Comparison image of Nikon L31 and Olympus E-PM1 Size
Weight is another important factor especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Nikon L31 is significantly lighter (105g ) than the Olympus E-PM1 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Again, this comparison may not be very useful in real life as we are comparing the weight of a camera with a built-in lens to the body-only weight of an interchangeable lens camera. Once you put a lens on E-PM1, the total kit will weigh much higher.
Weather Sealing
Unfortunately neither Nikon Coolpix L31 nor Olympus PEN E-PM1 provides any type of weather sealing in their body, so you have to give extra care especially when you are shooting outdoors. If weather sealing is a must-have feature for you, check these sections: Top Compact Cameras with Weather Sealing Top Mirrorless Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Olympus E-PM1's 3.00" LCD screen is slightly larger than Nikon L31's 2.7" screen.
Unfortunately, both cameras has fixed screens so they don't tilt or flip in directions.