The crops are taken from the original images, saved as High Quality JPEGs in Photoshop CS2 and presented here at 100%. Each number represents 100 lines per picture height (lpph), so a figure of 20 means a resolution of 2000 lpph.

This is a measurably higher result than achieved with the E-400, and although you’re unlikely to notice much difference between them in practice, it’s reassuring to see there’s no compromise with the new sensor – in terms of resolution anyway.

The E-410’s result also places it neck-in-neck with the excellent Nikon D40x and D80 in terms of resolution, and ahead of the Canon EOS 400D / XTi when all the cameras are fitted with their respective kit lenses. Canon’s really beginning to look like the odd one out with its relatively poor quality kit lens. Olympus and Nikon both prove a budget kit lens doesn’t have to be compromised. Indeed the Olympus Zuiko Digital 14-42mm ED is one of the best out there not just in terms of quality, but also thanks to its internal focusing and supplied lens hood. Olympus is setting a great example there.