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-PL9 and Olympus E-PL5 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. Olympus E-PL9 has external dimensions of 117 x 68 x 39 mm (4.61 x 2.68 x 1.54″) and weighs 380 g (0.84 lb / 13.40 oz) (including batteries). Olympus E-PL5 has external dimensions of 111 x 64 x 38 mm (4.37 x 2.52 x 1.5″) and weighs 325 g (0.72 lb / 11.46 oz) (including batteries).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Olympus E-PL9 and the Olympus E-PL5. Olympus E-PL5 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 6mm narrower, 4mm shorter and 1mm thinner than Olympus E-PL9.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Olympus E-PL9 and Olympus E-PL5.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Olympus E-PL9 and Olympus E-PL5.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Olympus E-PL5 is significantly lighter (55g ) than the Olympus E-PL9 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-PL9 and Olympus E-PL5 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
Unfortunately neither the Olympus PEN E-PL9 nor Olympus PEN E-PL5 provides any type of weather sealing in their bodies, 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 Mirrorless Cameras with Weather Sealing
LCD Screen Size and Features
Olympus E-PL9 and Olympus E-PL5'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.