Though it's not as compact as some competitors, the E-PL2 is well-built and comfortable to shoot with.
Lori Grunin
I've been reviewing hardware and software, devising testing methodology and handed out buying advice for what seems like forever; I'm currently absorbed by computers and gaming hardware, but previously spent many years concentrating on cameras. I've also volunteered with a cat rescue for over 15 years doing adoptions, designing marketing materials, managing volunteers and, of course, photographing cats.
The E-PL2 comes with a new kit lens; it's the same f3.5-5.6 14-42mm optics as the old lens, but uses an internal focus mechanism for quieter operation while autofocusing during video shooting. Though you can hear some noise while zooming, it's pretty quiet during autofocus.
2 of 5Sarah Tew/CNET
Body
The body design and shape are fundamentally the same as the E-PL1's, but I like the E-PL2's all-black look a little better than the black with silver of its predecessor. It's still very well-built and sturdy-feeling.
3 of 5Sarah Tew/CNET
Redesigned controls
Olympus changed the large buttons and four-way navigation keys to smaller buttons and a dial for navigation. It looks a lot nicer and I like the dial, but the buttons may be small for some people. The movie record button is also recessed a bit more, to prevent accidental operation. This newer model also supports the more recent version of the accessory connector for an add-on EVF, the new PEN Pal Bluetooth module, and the antennalike macro light.
4 of 5Sarah Tew/CNET
Relatively compact
Though not the smallest of the various ILC options, the E-PL2 is still a good size; it's not so big that it's onerous to carry, and not so small that it's onerous to operate.
5 of 5Sarah Tew/CNET
Mode dial
The grip is shallow, but enough to give you something to hang onto. For this model, Olympus has added a faux-HDR Art Filter and added some variations to existing ones. You can now use the Live Guide to adjust settings for shooting video as well.
