Upgrade or stick with what I have

[JimtownSteve]

I'm considering buying an 8MP EVF camera such as the Konica Minolta A2, Canon A1, or Nikon 8800. I currently have an Olympus E-1 4MP which has been a terrific camera with most of the flexibility I look for in a camera. I especially like it's true SLR viewfinder and the integrated zoom lens. The main reason for the upgrade would be the greater zoom range of the EVF cameras, but mostly the higher resolution. My preferences are . . .


I like to print my photos but rarely larger than than 8x10. Currently using an Epson 1270 printer, 1440 dpi.
I usually print close to full frame images, with some cropping but not much.
I use Photoshop and enjoy the post processing as much or more than the actual shooting.
The E-1 is a little bulkier than I'd like but I can live with it.
I like shiny new toys but bore quickly with novelty unless it has lasting benefit.
I've read the reviews of the 8MP cameras and they all seem to have various shortcommings that I'm guessing will be improved in future versions even if the resolution stays the same.
I don't like buying expensive cameras every few years.


I'd like any advice you can give regarding the higher resolution--will I notice a substantial improvement given how I use my camera?
Should I buy now or wait?

Thanks,
Steve

[Newbie]

4 megapixels yield nearly photo quality prints at 8x10... Actually its close enough that you are not likely to notice the difference unless you compare side by side and know exactly where to look at. Even then it won't be obvious.

Where 8mp advantages you is if you crop, 8mp enables u to crop more than 4mp, but you said you did not crop too much.


From my point of view, no you do not need more megapixels... or if you do, its certainly not 8megapixels.