Olympus OM-D E-M1 Review | 108 Data compared

double-arrow
  • Avg. price in UK: ~£260
  • Avg. price in US: ~$300
  • Sensor size: four thirds
  • Lens mount: Micro Four Thirds
  • Main camera pixel size: 3.76 µm
  • Weight: 497 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 350 shots

Olympus OM-D E-M1 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

6.4

Overall score

What it is: An overall evaluation of the camera's quality, based on technical analyses and user reviews.

When it matters: When you need a quick reference to identify the best cameras on the market.

Score components:

90.0%

6.4

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
6.4

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

6.6

Sensor & Image

25.0%

7.6

Photo Features

18.0%

5.1

Video & Audio

14.0%

7.1

Display & Design

8.0%

5.4

Battery & Power

7.0%

4.9

Connectivity & Storage

Good
?

User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

?

User reviews

30.0%

?

Popularity

  • 6.1
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    8.2

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    5.9

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    4.4

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    10

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 5.9
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    6.3

    Weight

    30.0%

    5.1

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 8.0
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    9.2

    Price

    20.0%

    6.3

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    5.1

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    10

    Touchscreen

  • 7.7
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.9

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    8.2

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    6.9

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

  • 7.1
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.3

    Weight

    25.0%

    5.9

    Thickness

    20.0%

    6.3

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 8.1
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.2

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    6.9

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    10

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    5.9

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 6.1
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    6.3

    Weight

    25.0%

    5.1

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    6.4

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £260

Best rankings

?

Available: ranking among products currently available (including other versions of this product).
All: ranking among all products in the database.

Verdict

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is a professional mirrorless camera featuring a 16.3MP Live MOS sensor without an optical low-pass filter, paired with the TruePic VII processor and an ISO range of 100 to 25,600. It stands out for its high-performance 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilisation, a hybrid Dual Fast AF system combining contrast and phase detection, a magnesium alloy weather-sealed body, up to 10fps continuous shooting, and a 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder. While its compact build, superb handling, and excellent image sharpness are highly praised, its main disadvantages include a relatively short battery life, complex and confusing menu layouts, and limited low-light performance compared to larger sensor formats.

Technical Specifications of Olympus OM-D E-M1

Technical Score

What it is: An assessment of the camera's technical performance, covering eight key areas: image quality, autofocus, video features, stabilization, lens compatibility, connectivity, battery, and design.

When it matters: When you want to compare cameras based on technical performance and available features.

Score components:

28.0%

?

Sensor & Image

25.0%

?

Photo Features

18.0%

?

Video & Audio

14.0%

?

Display & Design

8.0%

?

Battery & Power

7.0%

?

Connectivity & Storage

6.4
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a technical score of 6.42 points, which is higher than 80% of cameras.
User score

What it is: A rating that combines user reviews and the total number of reviews received by the camera.

When it matters: When real-world owner satisfaction and review volume matter to your decision.

Score components:

70.0%

0.0

User reviews

30.0%

1.0

Popularity

?
Popularity
What it is: An indicator based on the number of reviews received by the camera.
When it matters: When you want to see which cameras attract the most buyer attention and review activity.
1.0
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a popularity of 1 points, which is higher than 0% of products in this category.
Ratio quality/price

What it is: An indicator that combines the camera's overall rating with its cost.

When it matters: When you want to know how much overall quality you get for the price.

Score components:

60.0%

6.4

Overall score

40.0%

9.2

Price

7.2
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7.2 points, which is higher than 93.8% of products in this category.
Sensor size
What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: Full frame or larger

four thirds
Olympus OM-D E-M1 uses a sensor classified as four thirds; it is larger than the sensor in 49% of cameras and the same size as the sensor in 8.1% of cameras.
Main camera megapixels
What it is: The effective resolution of the camera sensor, measured in megapixels (MP). Higher megapixels can capture more detail.
When it matters: When you want high-resolution photos that allow more cropping or larger prints.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 20 MP

16.3 MP
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a main camera resolution of 16.3 MP, which is higher than that of 51.8% of cameras and equal to that of 2.7% of cameras.
Main camera pixel size
What it is: The physical size of individual pixels on the camera sensor, measured in micrometers. Larger pixels typically capture more light for better low-light performance.
When it matters: When you shoot in low light and want reduced noise in your photos.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3.5 µm

3.76 µm
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a main camera pixel size of 3.76 µm which is larger than in 55.4% of cameras and equal to the size in 5.3% of cameras.
Base ISO
What it is: The native ISO setting that delivers the sensor’s standard balance of image quality and dynamic range.
When it matters: When you want the best native image quality and compare cameras at their most optimal sensitivity setting.

Importance: LOW

200
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a base ISO of 200 which is higher than that of 84.9% of cameras and equal to that of 14.2% of cameras.
Max ISO
What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least ISO 25,600

25,600
Olympus OM-D E-M1 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 25,600, which is higher than that of 75.5% of cameras and equal to that of 12.5% of cameras.
Show more
Lens mount
What it is: The mechanical and electronic interface that determines which interchangeable lenses the camera can use.
When it matters: When lens availability, upgrade options, and long-term system compatibility are central to your buying decision.

Importance: LOW

Micro Four Thirds
Built-in focus motor
What it is: Indicates whether the camera body includes an internal autofocus motor for driving compatible lenses.
When it matters: When you plan to use older or budget lenses that depend on the camera body for autofocus drive.

Importance: LOW

no
Olympus OM-D E-M1 does not have a built-in focus motor. 11% of cameras have a built-in focus motor.
N. of focus points
What it is: The total number of selectable autofocus points available for positioning and tracking focus.
When it matters: When you want more flexibility in placing focus precisely or tracking subjects across the frame.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 200 points

81
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has 81 focus points, more than the number offered by 72.9% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 1% of cameras.
Phase-detection autofocus (photos)
What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

Importance: HIGH

yes
Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.3% of cameras support phase-detection autofocus for photos.
AF tracking
What it is: An autofocus mode that continuously follows a moving subject to keep it sharp during shooting.
When it matters: When your subjects move unpredictably and you need the camera to keep focus on them automatically.

Importance: MEDIUM

yes
Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
Show more
Max video resolution
What it is: The highest video resolution the camera can record, defining the maximum level of captured image detail.
When it matters: When you care about recording the highest level of detail for cropping, editing, or future-proof video work.

Importance: HIGH

Good value: At least 3840 px

1920 px
Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports 1920 px video recording which is higher quality than that of 28.7% of cameras and equal to that of 47.1% of cameras.
Video bitrate
What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 200 Mbps

24 Mbps
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a video bitrate of 24 Mbps which is lower than that of 62.5% of cameras and equal to that of 7% of cameras.
Video bit depth
What it is: The number of bits used per color channel in recorded video, affecting gradation smoothness and editing flexibility.
When it matters: When you color grade video and want smoother gradients with fewer banding issues.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 10-bit

8 bit
Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports video at 8 bit, a bit depth higher than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 80.6% of cameras.
Video chroma subsampling
What it is: The color sampling format used in video recording, indicating how much color detail is retained relative to brightness detail.
When it matters: When color grading, keying, or serious post-production work is important in your video workflow.

Importance: LOW

4:2:0
Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports 4:2:0 video chroma subsampling which is more advanced than that of 7.8% of cameras and equal to that of 69.9% of cameras.
Video codecs
What it is: The video compression formats the camera can use when recording, affecting compatibility, efficiency, and workflow.
When it matters: When compatibility, editing performance, and file efficiency matter in the way you handle video.

Importance: LOW

H.264, Motion JPEG
Show more
Type
What it is: The camera type identifies the overall design, such as mirrorless, DSLR, compact, or bridge.
When it matters: When you want a camera style that matches how you shoot, carry, and swap lenses.

Importance: LOW

mirrorless
Weight
What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: 500 g or less

497 g
Olympus OM-D E-M1 weighs 497 g which is heavier than 61.8% of cameras and equal to the weight of 0.1% of cameras.
Width
What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

Importance: LOW

130 mm
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a width of 130 mm which is wider than 72.1% of cameras and equal to that of 1.1% of cameras.
Height
What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

Importance: LOW

94 mm
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a height of 94 mm which is taller than 72.8% of cameras and equal to that of 0.7% of cameras.
Thickness
What it is: The depth of the device profile, excluding the camera bump unless specified.
When it matters: When you prefer a sleek, slim profile that slides easily into tight pockets.

Importance: LOW

63 mm
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a thickness of 63 mm which is thicker than 58.9% of cameras and equal to that of 0.2% of cameras.
Show more
Battery life (CIPA)
What it is: The official battery endurance estimate measured under CIPA test methodology, usually expressed in shots per charge.
When it matters: When you need realistic expectations for how many shots you can take before carrying a spare battery.

Importance: MEDIUM

Good value: At least 400 shots

350 shots
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a CIPA-rated battery life of 350 shots, which is longer than that of 54.5% of cameras and equal to that of 5% of cameras.
Battery capacity
What it is: The amount of electric charge the battery can hold, measured in milliampere-hours (mAh).
When it matters: When you want a general idea of how large the battery is physically.

Importance: LOW

Good value: At least 1,500 mAh

1,220 mAh
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a battery capacity of 1,220 mAh which is larger than the batteries in 55.9% of cameras and equal to those in 0.6% of cameras.
Removable battery
What it is: Indicates whether the flight battery can be removed and swapped by the user.
When it matters: When you want to swap batteries quickly between flights.

Importance: LOW

yes
Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a removable battery, and 98.7% of cameras include one.
USB Power Delivery (PD)
What it is: Support for the USB Power Delivery standard for higher-power charging or external power supply over USB-C.
When it matters: When you want faster USB-C charging or the ability to power the camera externally for longer sessions.

Importance: LOW

no
Olympus OM-D E-M1 does not support USB Power Delivery. 10.1% of cameras support USB Power Delivery.
Wi-Fi connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera has built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer, remote control, or network features.
When it matters: When you want to transfer photos wirelessly, control the camera from a phone, or use supported network workflows.

Importance: LOW

yes
Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports Wi-Fi. This feature is available on 47.8% of cameras.
Wi-Fi version
What it is: The specific generation of Wi-Fi standards supported (e.g., Wi-Fi 6, Wi-Fi 7), determining maximum speed and efficiency.
When it matters: When you have a high-speed router and want faster downloads with less congestion.

Importance: LOW

Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n)
Olympus OM-D E-M1 uses Wi-Fi version Wi-Fi 4 (802.11n) which is newer than that of 54.2% of cameras and equal to that of 35.6% of cameras.
Bluetooth connectivity
What it is: Indicates whether the camera supports Bluetooth for pairing, remote control, or file transfer.
When it matters: When you want quick wireless pairing with a phone, remote control, or location syncing.

Importance: LOW

no
Olympus OM-D E-M1 does not have Bluetooth. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth version
What it is: The Bluetooth version supported by the camera for wireless pairing and low-power connections.
When it matters: When you want more efficient wireless pairing, better range, or newer Bluetooth features.

Importance: LOW

N/A
USB Type-C
What it is: A modern, reversible connector used for charging, data transfer, and sometimes audio or video output.
When it matters: When you want a reversible cable that handles charging, data, and accessories universally.

Importance: LOW

no
Olympus OM-D E-M1 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
Show more

Olympus OM-D E-M1 vs the average camera

  • In-body stabilization
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
    5-axis in-body stabilization.
    What it is: A stabilization system that physically moves the image sensor to reduce shake during handheld shooting.
    When it matters: When you often shoot handheld and want sharper results at slower shutter speeds without relying only on lens stabilization.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
  • Phase-detect AF for photos
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Autofocus technology that measures phase differences to lock focus quickly and accurately for still photography.
    When it matters: When you want faster and more reliable autofocus for still photos, especially with moving subjects.

    Importance: HIGH

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
  • 19,200 higher max ISO
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (25,600 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
    What it is: The ISO ceiling shows the highest sensor sensitivity available for darker scenes.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least ISO 25,600

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (25,600 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.25,600 vs 6,400
  • Human eye AF
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports human eye-detection AF, the average camera does not.
    What it is: Autofocus detection designed to identify and prioritize human eyes for portrait and action shooting.
    When it matters: When you shoot portraits, weddings, or events and want the camera to prioritize people’s eyes automatically.

    Importance: LOW

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports human eye-detection AF, the average camera does not.
  • Better viewfinder type
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).
    What it is: The type of viewfinder the camera uses to frame the shot, such as optical, electronic, hybrid, or none.
    When it matters: When you strongly prefer the clarity of an optical finder, the preview benefits of an electronic one, or no viewfinder at all.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).electronic vs none
  • Has microphone input
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
    3.5 mm mic input
    What it is: Indicates whether the camera has a microphone input for connecting an external mic.
    When it matters: When you record video and want better audio than the built-in microphones can provide.

    Importance: LOW

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
  • 4.3 fps faster mechanical burst
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (10 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
    10 fps with C-AF.
    What it is: The maximum burst rate the camera can achieve using its mechanical shutter, measured in frames per second.
    When it matters: When you photograph sports, wildlife, or action and want more chances to catch the exact moment.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 10 fps

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (10 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.10 fps vs 5.7 fps
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
    Supersonic Wave Filter.
    What it is: A built-in mechanism designed to remove or reduce dust particles from the image sensor surface.
    When it matters: When you change lenses often and want to reduce the chance of dust spots appearing on your images.

    Importance: LOW

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • Better viewfinder type
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 uses a more advanced viewfinder than the average camera (electronic vs none).
  • Has a touchscreen
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
  • 60 Hz higher EVF refresh rate
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a higher EVF refresh rate than the average camera (120 Hz vs 60 Hz). The average camera has an EVF refresh rate of 60 Hz.
  • 89.7% higher magnification
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a higher viewfinder magnification than the average camera (1.5x vs 0.78x). The average camera has a viewfinder magnification of 0.78x.
  • 6 more customizable buttons
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has more customizable buttons than the average camera (6 vs 0). The average camera offers 0 customizable buttons.
  • 19,200 higher max ISO
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a higher max ISO than the average camera (25,600 vs 6,400). The average camera reaches a max ISO of 6,400.
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • 0.42 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (3.8 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • Higher DxOMark landscape score
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a higher DxOMark landscape score than the average camera (12.7 vs 12.4). The average camera scores 12.4.
  • In-body stabilization
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
  • Phase-detect AF for photos
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports phase-detection autofocus for photos, the average camera does not.
  • Human eye AF
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports human eye-detection AF, the average camera does not.
  • 4.3 fps faster mechanical burst
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (10 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • 1,770 s longer maximum exposure
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports a longer maximum exposure than the average camera (1,800 s vs 30 s). The average camera supports a longest shutter speed of 30 s.
  • 58 more AF points
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has more focus points than the average camera (81 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • Lossless compressed RAW
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports lossless compressed RAW, while the average camera does not.
  • Supports touch autofocus
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports touch autofocus, the average camera does not. 34.9% of cameras support touch autofocus.
  • 50,000 more shutter cycles
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a higher shutter durability than the average camera (150,000 vs 100,000). The average camera is rated for 100,000 shutter cycles.
  • Has microphone input
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has microphone input, the average camera does not.
  • Supports live streaming
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports live streaming, the average camera does not.
  • Built-in timelapse
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
  • Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
  • Smartphone remote control
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
  • No flash
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 does not have a built-in flash, the average camera does. 73.4% of cameras have a flash.
    Bundled external flash, not built in.
  • 25.8% heavier
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 is heavier than the average camera (497 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
  • 20.1 mm taller body
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 is taller than the average camera (94 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
  • 10.1 mm wider
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 is wider than the average camera (130 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
  • 17 mm thicker
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 is thicker than the average camera (63 mm vs 46 mm). The average camera has a thickness of 46 mm.
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
  • Smaller sensor
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (four thirds vs APS-C).
  • 85 points lower DxOMark Sports score
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a lower DxOMark sports score than the average camera (757 points vs 842 points). The average camera has a DxOMark sports score of 842 points.
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
    Rated with f/2.8 lens.
  • 20% lower video bitrate
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (24 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
    Rated with f/2.8 lens.
    What it is: The lowest light level at which the autofocus system is rated to work reliably.
    When it matters: When you shoot in dim environments and need autofocus that still locks confidently after dark.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (0 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.0 vs -4
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.
    What it is: The number of bits used to encode color and tonal information in RAW files captured by the camera.
    When it matters: When you heavily edit RAW photos and want more tonal information for aggressive adjustments.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 14-bit

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 supports lower RAW bit depth than the average camera (12-bit vs 14-bit). The average camera supports 14-bit RAW capture.12-bit vs 14-bit
  • Smaller sensor
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (four thirds vs APS-C).
    What it is: The sensor format value describes the physical light-collecting area.
    When it matters: When you shoot in more difficult lighting.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: Full frame or larger

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (four thirds vs APS-C).four thirds vs APS-C
  • No flash
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 does not have a built-in flash, the average camera does. 73.4% of cameras have a flash.
    Bundled external flash, not built in.
    What it is: Indicates the presence of an integrated light source to illuminate subjects in low-light conditions.
    When it matters: When you need a quick built-in light for fill flash or simple low-light shots.

    Importance: LOW

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 does not have a built-in flash, the average camera does. 73.4% of cameras have a flash.
  • 25.8% heavier
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 is heavier than the average camera (497 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.
    What it is: The total weight of the camera body, which affects comfort while carrying and shooting.
    When it matters: When you carry the camera all day, travel often, or prefer a lighter setup.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: 500 g or less

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 is heavier than the average camera (497 g vs 395 g). The average camera weighs 395 g.497 g vs 395 g
  • 20.1 mm taller body
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 is taller than the average camera (94 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.
    What it is: The height of the camera body, measured from top to bottom.
    When it matters: When you care about how compact the camera feels in a bag or in hand.

    Importance: LOW

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 is taller than the average camera (94 mm vs 73.9 mm). The average camera has a height of 73.9 mm.94 mm vs 73.9 mm
  • 20% lower video bitrate
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (24 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
    What it is: The amount of video data recorded per second, which affects file size and potential recording quality.
    When it matters: When you compare potential video quality and want fewer compression artifacts in demanding scenes.

    Importance: MEDIUM

    Good value: At least 200 Mbps

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 has a lower video bitrate than the average camera (24 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.24 Mbps vs 30 Mbps
  • 10.1 mm wider
    Olympus OM-D E-M1 is wider than the average camera (130 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.
    What it is: The width of the camera body, measured from side to side.
    When it matters: When compact packing, grip comfort, or bag fit matters to you.

    Importance: LOW

    Olympus OM-D E-M1 is wider than the average camera (130 mm vs 119.9 mm). The average camera has a width of 119.9 mm.130 mm vs 119.9 mm

Graphic comparison of Olympus OM-D E-M1 and

Attribute category
Attribute
No results found

Third-party reviews

What customers like about Olympus OM-D E-M1?

  • Excellent 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS)
  • Fast and reliable hybrid autofocus system (phase/contrast detection)
  • Robust, weather-sealed (splash/freeze-proof) magnesium alloy body
  • Highly customizable buttons and controls
  • Large, bright, and detailed electronic viewfinder (EVF)
  • Good compatibility with both Micro 4/3 and older 4/3 lenses
  • Compact and lightweight system compared to DSLRs

What customers dislike about Olympus OM-D E-M1?

  • Lower 16.3-megapixel resolution compared to modern cameras
  • Short battery life (approx. 350 shots)
  • Complex and confusing menu system
  • Lack of dedicated, easily identifiable physical buttons (ISO, WB)
  • Only one memory card slot
  • No built-in flash
  • Slight lag when reviewing images

Expert reviews

D
dpreview.com
28/10/2013

Conversely, the review notes significant limitations, notably that the autofocus with older Four Thirds glass can stutter and hesitate in dim, low-light environments. Other cons include noticeable image smudging from noise reduction at ISO 6400, a basic 30p video mode with limited bitrates, high battery consumption, and a sluggish Wi-Fi app experience.

S
stevehuffphoto.com
12/10/2013

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is highlighted as a highly versatile, pro-level Micro 4/3 mirrorless camera that stands out as an exceptional tool for photography rather than video. Built on the success of the E-M5, this flagship model completely omits the anti-aliasing filter to deliver sharper, crisper images with richer details and excellent out-of-camera colours. Its core strengths...Read more

P
photothisandthat.co.uk
16/10/2013

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is a highly capable 16MP Micro Four Thirds camera that delivers the solid, professional ergonomics and build quality of a traditional DSLR in a significantly smaller and lighter body. Designed with intuitive physical buttons and dials for core operations, the camera features a crisp, tilting rear touch screen and an exceptional, highly responsive electronic...Read more

H
hokkaidowilds.org
22/01/2016

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is a micro four-thirds mirrorless camera praised for its exceptional balance of compact size, low weight, and ruggedness, making it an ideal choice for human-powered outdoor adventure photography. A standout feature is its highly effective 5-axis in-body image stabilization, which allows for crisp, handheld shots at slow shutter speeds, even while riding a...Read more

P
photographylife.com
11/04/2020

The Photography Life review of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 highlights the camera as a highly responsive, top-tier mirrorless tool featuring robust weatherproofing, superior ergonomics, fast autofocus, and exceptional 5-axis image stabilization. It is praised for its compact design and handling, which outperform competitors like the Fujifilm X-T1 in speed and stability. Photography Life...Read more

P
photoscala.de
27/09/2013

The Photoscala review positions the Olympus OM-D E-M1 as a professional-grade mirrorless camera, highlighting its robust, weather-sealed magnesium body and an improved 16-megapixel sensor without an anti-aliasing filter for superior sharpness. Key advantages include fast autofocus with legacy Four Thirds lenses, an excellent 2.36-million-dot electronic viewfinder, and highly...Read more

C
chip.de
10/09/2013

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is a high-end mirrorless interchangeable-lens camera (DSLM) tailored for highly demanding enthusiast photographers and legacy users of the older Olympus E-system. Priced at approximately 1,500 Euros for the body alone, this flagship Micro Four Thirds model aims to offer a seamless bridge between traditional DSLRs and compact mirrorless systems. It treats users...Read more

C
chip.de
21/10/2013

Summary The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is a high-end Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera (DSLM) that delivers professional-level performance in a compact, splash-proof magnesium body. Despite its retro 1970s aesthetic, the camera ranks highly due to its impressive 16-megapixel resolution, which yields remarkably sharp photos that rival larger APS-C DSLR competitors. Its image quality is...Read more

D
digitalkamera.de
21/11/2013

The Digitalkamera.de review highlights the Olympus OM-D E-M1 as a professional-grade, versatile Micro Four Thirds camera featuring a massive, bright electronic viewfinder that matches full-frame DSLR sizing. Key advantages noted include a vast, highly functional feature set, robust construction, and high-performance, though the test was conducted with the 12-50mm kit lens rather...Read more

F
fotodesign-rs.de
13/01/2014

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is a robust and highly capable tool well-suited for professional environments like street and wedding photography. Designed with a physical, built-in handgrip, the camera provides superior ergonomics and a secure hold compared to previous retro-styled models. Its standout features include a remarkably fast and precise autofocus system that accurately locks onto...Read more

B
blickgewinkelt.de
27/10/2014

The author evaluated the Olympus OM-D E-M1 micro four-thirds camera as a potential creative travel alternative to her bulkier Canon DSLRs (the 600D and 80D). She praised the camera for its highly intuitive manual operation featuring easily accessible dual adjustment dials, an excellent area-metering system, and impressive 5-axis image stabilization that allows sharp handheld shots...Read more

D
digicammuseum.de
11/05/2023

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is a professional micro Four Thirds (mFT) mirrorless camera that was originally introduced in 2013 for €1,500 and can now be purchased secondhand with warranty for around €175. A major standout feature of this camera is its phase-detection autofocus system, which allows it to lock focus instantly and accurately ("in a single snap") without the frustrating...Read more

D
dkamera.de
06/12/2015

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is a robust Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera featuring a dust- and splash-proof magnesium alloy body capable of operating in temperatures as low as -10°C. Designed to be larger than standard mirrorless models for enhanced ergonomics, it offers substantial room for physical controls, including three top dials and a dedicated AF/HDR button layout. The camera...Read more

D
dxomark.fr
Septembre 2013

The DXOMARK review of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 benchmarks this September 2013 mirrorless camera, awarding its Micro Four Thirds (MFT) sensor an overall score of 73 points. This evaluation positions the camera as a strong performer within its format, noted for generating a portrait (colour depth) score of 23 bits and a landscape (dynamic range) score of 12.7 EV. While its score allows...Read more

A
apprendre-la-photo.fr
Date non précisée

The OM System OM-1 (released in 2022) offers significant performance leaps over the older Olympus OM-D E-M1 (released in 2013), though it comes at a higher price of €1,999 compared to €1,099. The newer OM-1 boasts exceptional speed with a burst rate of up to 120 frames per second, a sharper 20-megapixel sensor, and an upgraded 5.76 Mpx electronic viewfinder. It also adds robust...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
02/10/2013

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is a highly capable micro 4/3 mirrorless camera designed to challenge expert DSLRs, featuring a durable, weather-sealed magnesium alloy chassis and excellent ergonomic handling thanks to a deep rubberized grip. Image quality is excellent up to ISO 3200, benefiting from a 16-megapixel Live MOS sensor paired with a high-performing TruePic VII processor and an...Read more

0
01net.com
23/12/2013

The 01net review highlights the Olympus OM-D E-M1 as a triumphant return for Olympus into the professional and expert photography segments, resolving most flaws of its predecessor, the E-M5. Evaluated alongside the M. Zuiko 12-40 mm f/2.8 Pro lens, the camera delivers outstanding image quality from its Sony-built 16 MP Live MOS sensor, which omits a low-pass filter to capture rich...Read more

M
madame-oreille.com
22/10/2014

The review evaluates the Olympus OM-D E-M1 paired with the 12-40mm f/2.8 lens during a two-week trip through Canada, contrasting it against the author's usual professional Canon full-frame DSLR camera. The prominent advantages of this mirrorless system are its lightweight yet incredibly solid build and its robust weather sealing, which successfully protected the gear through severe...Read more

L
leclaireur.fnac.com
27/04/2012

The Fnac Lab review highlights the Olympus OM-D E-M1 (tested with the ED 12-50 mm f/3.5-6.3 EZ lens) as a direct, lightweight, and compact alternative to traditional DSLR cameras, earning a 3 out of 5-star rating from the lab. Built with a durable magnesium alloy body, the camera houses a 16.8-megapixel sensor and a newly developed image processor. On the positive side, the review...Read more

X
xatakafoto.com
14/11/2013

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is a high-performance Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera housed in a durable, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body that resists dust, splashes, and temperatures down to -10ºC. It features a 16.3-megapixel Live MOS sensor and a highly capable image stabilizer, delivering excellent image quality and a highly accurate, fast autofocus system that performs well even...Read more

N
naturpixel.com
20/09/2013

However, the camera does exhibit a few performance drawbacks, most notably a frustrating image refresh lag immediately following heavy burst shooting, which forces the photographer to wait momentarily before they can re-focus on a trailing subject. This lag prevents the reviewer from unreservedly recommending it to high-end action photographers who rely on continuous, rapid-fire...Read more

W
wired.it
05/03/2014

The Wired Italia review evaluates the Olympus OM-D E-M1 as a robust, highly capable, and complex mirrorless camera that elegantly bridges vintage design with modern features. Priced at 1,500 euros for the body alone and earning a score of 8.5 out of 10, the camera stands out for its solid, weatherproofed construction that can withstand temperatures as low as -10°C. Photographers...Read more

M
marcellosavoia.weebly.com
12/11/2013

In this review, Marcello Savoia praises the Olympus OM-D E-M1 as a true top-of-the-line flagship camera that offers an exceptional balance between professional-grade performance and portability. Savoia highlights several significant improvements over its predecessor, the E-M5, including vastly superior ergonomics with a pronounced right-hand grip, an extensive array of customizable...Read more

F
focus-review.com
18/11/2013

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is a professional-grade micro-four-thirds mirrorless camera that improves upon its predecessor, the E-M5, by providing vastly superior ergonomics, larger buttons, and a bigger, sharper electronic viewfinder comparable in size to full-frame DSLRs. A major technical highlight is its new Dual Fast AF hybrid system (combining contrast and phase detection), which...Read more

P
portablegear.nl
01/10/2013

The PortableGear review highlights the Olympus OM-D E-M1 as a high-end, 16.3-megapixel Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera featuring exceptional 5-axis in-body image stabilization and superior image sharpness suitable for large prints. While praised for its responsive performance, interchangeable lens system, and portable, rugged design, the review notes that the body is sold...Read more

N
nandoonline.com
07/10/2020

In his review on Nandoonline, photographer Nando Harmsen shares his hands-on experience with the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, highlighting its compact, lightweight design, excellent build quality, and impressive industry-leading image stabilization (IBIS). The review praises unique computational features, such as Live-Bulb and Live-Composite modes, which allow users to visualize...Read more

Compare Olympus OM-D E-M1 with

VS
VS

Compare