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-PM1 and Olympus E-PL8 side-by-side from the front, back and top in their relative dimensions. 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). 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).
Below you can see the front-view size comparison of the Olympus E-PM1 and the Olympus E-PL8. Olympus E-PM1 is clearly the smaller of the two cameras. Its body is 5mm narrower, 3mm shorter and 4mm thinner than Olympus E-PL8.
Here is the back view size comparison of the Olympus E-PM1 and Olympus E-PL8.
Now lets look at the top view comparison of Olympus E-PM1 and Olympus E-PL8.
Weight is another important factor, especially when deciding on a camera that you want to carry with you all day.
Olympus E-PM1 is significantly lighter (92g ) than the Olympus E-PL8 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-PM1 and Olympus E-PL8 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-PM1 nor Olympus PEN E-PL8 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-PM1 and Olympus E-PL8's LCD screens have the same diagonal size of 3.00 inches.
On the other hand, Olympus E-PL8 features a
Tilting screen where you can change the angle of the screen to make it easier to shoot from waist or over-the-head levels whereas the Olympus E-PM1 has a fixed type screen which provides less flexibility in shooting positions compared to E-PL8.