Size and weight are big decision factors when you are trying to find the ideal camera for your needs.
In this section, we are going to illustrate the Olympus E-PL8 and Olympus E-M5 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Olympus E-PL8 has external dimensions of 115 x 67 x 38 mm (4.53 x 2.64 x 1.5″) and weighs 357 g (0.79 lb / 12.59 oz) (including batteries). Olympus E-M5 has external dimensions of 122 x 89 x 43 mm (4.8 x 3.5 x 1.69″) and weighs 425 g (0.94 lb / 14.99 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Olympus E-PL8 and the Olympus E-M5. Olympus E-PL8 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 7mm narrower, 22mm shorter and 5mm thinner than Olympus E-M5.
Comparison image of the Olympus E-PL8 and the Olympus E-M5 Size, Weight and External Dimensions - Front View
Here is the back view size comparison of the Olympus E-PL8 and Olympus E-M5.
Comparison image of the Olympus E-PL8 and the Olympus E-M5 Size and Weight - Back View
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Olympus E-PL8 and Olympus E-M5.
Top View Comparison image of the Olympus E-PL8 and the Olympus E-M5 Size
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Olympus E-PL8 is significantly lighter (68g ) than the Olympus E-M5 which may become a big advantage especially on long walking trips.
Also keep in mind that body weight is not the only deciding factor when comparing two interchangeable camera bodies, you also have to take into account the lenses that you will be using with these bodies. Since both Olympus E-PL8 and Olympus E-M5 have the same Micro Four Thirds lens mount and Four Thirds sized sensors, lenses will not be a differentiator on total size of the system.
Weather Sealing
Thanks to the weather-sealed body of the E-M5, you can use this camera with more confidence under conditions where there is risk of exposure to water and dust compared to the E-PL8.
LCD Screen Size and Features
Olympus E-PL8 and Olympus E-M5's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
Both cameras feature
Tilting screens where you can change the angle of the screen to make it easier to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels.