not sure if E-PL3 screen will be better in bright sun but the extra controls over E-PM1 is definitely nice to have. I've been using E-PM for 10 months now and can do everything E-Pl3 can do but it's only because I got used to changing settings quickly via menu. I much rather prefer external controls. Also IBIS on E-PM1 is completely unusable, not sure if it's the same with E-PL3.

I'm with WT21, the G3 gives you the articulated screen and evf...

Fred

When I first started using the E-PL1 I felt the EVF was a necessity, but after a few months I personally found that I got used to shooting with the LCD and having either a flash or the external microphone in the shot shoe/accessory port.

Even under strong sunlight I've found I can usually still frame my shots just fine using the LCD. I found that when I used the VF2 I frequently removed it and swapped in an external flash for fill flash so I was left with the LCD for framing. I ended up selling the VF2 after I hadn't used it for eight months.

If Oly makes a Pen with an integrated EVF (sort of the same shape as the Sony NEX-7 or the Fujifilm X100) that doesn't block the hot shoe/accessory port then I might buy that camera. I know, the E-M5 has a dedicated EVF and separate hot shoe/accessory port but I don't like the feel of the E-M5 in my hands (I prefer the long, flat shape of the Pen series).

thanks, everyone, for all of the comments.

from a functionality standpoint the G3 panny, or the OMD, are the most logical choices.

what i had in mind however was putting together a small as possible package to (hopefully) take the place of a P&S, and give me a taste of M43. i was thinking that a VF-less camera like the EPM1, EPL3, GF3, GX1 etc. would be more easily carried in a cargo or coat pocket.

might be a poor assumption on my part -- as JJJ says feel plays a big role and hard to do a feel test with no stock available locally. i have been able to play with the NEX5N and really, really like the handling but it has it's own issues re lack of lens options. even so i think that if the 5N had a decent pancake option i'd go with it.