The 10-megapixel Olympus E-420 is a versatile digital SLR, yet is principally point-and-shoot-oriented. Aimed at general shooters upgrading to a more capable camera, its deep feature set emphasizes point-and-click functionality, adding Contrast-Detect autofocus in Live View, and Face Detection Technology; though it also extends aptly to more hands-on shooters. Tagged the "World's smallest digital SLR," the Olympus E-420 body spans just 5.1 x 3.6 x 2.1 inches, and weighs well under a pound. Its condensed frame, however, may be hard for some to grip.
Applying Olympus's new 25mm f/2.8 pancake lens (equivalent to a 50mm lens on a 35mm SLR), transforms the E-420 into a true pocket-sized digital SLR that you can stow in your jacket and take to the streets. With the "normal" field of view (loosely equivalent to what your eye naturally sees) of the pancake lens, along with the camera's wireless flash control, dust reduction, and +/-5 EV compensation range, the E-420 is also poised to appeal to seasoned photographers in search of a affordable walk-around digital SLR. Starting at just $499.99 (body-only), the Olympus E-420 is priced within reach for both demographics. Two kits are available. The standard kit includes a 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 ED glass lens that performs very well, for $599.99. And a third kit includes the new 25mm f/2.8 pancake lens for $699.99.
Look and Feel. The Olympus E-420 has a low profile and flat form that sits in the hand similarly to a 35mm SLR. The key difference is the weight: at just 13.4 ounces (16 oz with battery and card), the Olympus E-420 is so light it feels a bit toy-like. Trumpeted as "The World's Smallest" digital SLR by Olympus, the E-420 spans 5.1 x 3.6 x 2.1-inches, though it's actually slightly heavier than the E-410. I found the additional heft, marginal as it may be, to be beneficial, as the Olympus E-420's lightweight frame presents more handling issues for me than its slight frame/dimensions/diminutive form. The weight becomes particularly problematic when long, heavy lenses are attached, throwing the camera off-balance and forcing your hand to compensate.