Olympus PEN E-PL9 Review | 108 Data compared

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  • Avg. price in UK: ~£300
  • Avg. price in US: ~$340
  • Sensor size: four thirds
  • Lens mount: Micro Four Thirds
  • Main camera pixel size: 3.74 µm
  • Weight: 380 g
  • Battery life (CIPA): 350 shots

Olympus PEN E-PL9 review. Compare 108 technical specifications and user reviews to see how it ranks among cameras and if it is worth buying.

6.2

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%

6.2

Technical Score

10.0%

?

User score

Good
6.2

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%

6.5

Sensor & Image

25.0%

6.4

Photo Features

18.0%

5.6

Video & Audio

14.0%

6.8

Display & Design

8.0%

5.3

Battery & Power

7.0%

5.8

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

  • 5.4
    Professional photography

    Score components:

    25.0%

    8.2

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    5.7

    Main camera megapixels

    20.0%

    1.0

    Dual card slots

    15.0%

    6.2

    N. of focus points

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

    10.0%

    1.0

    Phase-detection autofocus (photos)

  • 6.4
    Travel

    Score components:

    35.0%

    7.7

    Weight

    30.0%

    5.1

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    15.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • 8.2
    Beginners

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.9

    Price

    20.0%

    7.7

    Weight

    20.0%

    10

    AF tracking

    20.0%

    5.1

    Battery life (CIPA)

    10.0%

    10

    Touchscreen

  • 7.6
    Landscape photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    5.7

    Main camera megapixels

    25.0%

    8.2

    Sensor size

    20.0%

    6.8

    Main camera pixel size

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    RAW photo capture

  • 8.4
    Street photography

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.7

    Weight

    25.0%

    8.5

    Thickness

    20.0%

    7.3

    AF low-light sensitivity

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    10

    Eye detection AF (human)

  • 8.0
    Portraits

    Score components:

    30.0%

    8.2

    Sensor size

    25.0%

    6.8

    Main camera pixel size

    20.0%

    10

    Eye detection AF (human)

    15.0%

    5.7

    Main camera megapixels

    10.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

  • 5.7
    Hiking

    Score components:

    30.0%

    7.7

    Weight

    25.0%

    5.1

    Battery life (CIPA)

    20.0%

    2.8

    Min operating temperature

    15.0%

    10

    Sensor-shift stabilization

    10.0%

    1.0

    GPS

  • No image
No image

Best prices in UK

    N/A~ £300

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 PEN E-PL9 is a stylish, entry-level mirrorless camera featuring a 16.1-megapixel Micro Four Thirds CMOS sensor and the advanced TruePic VIII image processor. Key specifications include 3-axis in-body image stabilisation offering up to 3.5 stops of compensation, 4K video recording at 30fps, and an updated 121-point contrast-detect autofocus system. The camera is highly portable at 380g and includes a 3-inch tilting touchscreen that flips down 180 degrees for selfies, alongside built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for seamless image transfer. Main pros include its chic retro design, excellent JPEG quality, and the addition of a built-in pop-up flash and Advanced Photo (AP) mode for simplified creative shooting. However, notable cons include the lack of a built-in viewfinder (with no option to add one), the absence of a microphone input for video, and a downward-flipping screen that is obstructed when using a tripod.

Technical Specifications of Olympus PEN E-PL9

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

6.2
Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a technical score of 6.21 points, which is higher than 76.2% 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 PEN E-PL9 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%

6.2

Overall score

40.0%

8.9

Price

7.0
Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a quality-to-price ratio of 7 points, which is higher than 88.7% 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 PEN E-PL9 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

16.1 MP
Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a main camera resolution of 16.1 MP, which is lower than that of 53.1% of cameras and equal to that of 7.9% 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

3.74 µm
Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a main camera pixel size of 3.74 µm which is larger than in 55.2% of cameras and equal to the size in 0.1% 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 PEN E-PL9 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

6,400
Olympus PEN E-PL9 reaches a maximum sensitivity of ISO 6,400, which is higher than that of 37.3% of cameras and equal to that of 16.2% of cameras.
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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 PEN E-PL9 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

121
Olympus PEN E-PL9 has 121 focus points, more than the number offered by 80.6% of cameras and equal to the number offered by 1.3% 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

no
Olympus PEN E-PL9 does not support phase-detection autofocus for photos. 37.5% 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 PEN E-PL9 supports AF tracking. This feature is available on 88% of cameras.
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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

3,840 px
Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports 3,840 px video recording which is higher quality than that of 76% of cameras and equal to that of 19.2% 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

102 Mbps
Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a video bitrate of 102 Mbps which is higher than that of 82.1% of cameras and equal to that of 1% 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 PEN E-PL9 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 PEN E-PL9 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
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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

380 g
Olympus PEN E-PL9 weighs 380 g which is lighter than 52.6% 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

117.1 mm
Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a width of 117.1 mm which is narrower than 53.5% of cameras and equal to that of 0.2% 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

68 mm
Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a height of 68 mm which is shorter than 57.3% of cameras and equal to that of 1% 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

39 mm
Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a thickness of 39 mm which is thinner than 60.1% of cameras and equal to that of 0.6% of cameras.
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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 PEN E-PL9 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

1,175 mAh
Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a battery capacity of 1,175 mAh which is larger than the batteries in 51.9% of cameras and equal to those in 0.3% 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 PEN E-PL9 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 PEN E-PL9 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 PEN E-PL9 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 PEN E-PL9 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

yes
Olympus PEN E-PL9 has Bluetooth. 22.6% of cameras support Bluetooth.
Bluetooth 4.2.
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

4.0
Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports Bluetooth version 4.0 which is newer than that supported by 78% of cameras and equal to that of 1.4% of cameras.
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 PEN E-PL9 does not include USB Type-C. 14.6% of cameras use USB-C.
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Olympus PEN E-PL9 vs the average camera

  • In-body stabilization
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
    3-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 PEN E-PL9 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
  • Human eye AF
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 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 PEN E-PL9 supports human eye-detection AF, the average camera does not.
  • 98 more AF points
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has more focus points than the average camera (121 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 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

    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has more focus points than the average camera (121 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.121 vs 23
  • Supports slow-motion video
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
    Supports up to 120 fps high-speed video.
    What it is: The ability to record at high frame rates so motion can be played back more slowly than real time.
    When it matters: When you want to emphasize fast action, movement details, or dramatic moments in playback.

    Importance: LOW

    Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 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 PEN E-PL9 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • 1920 px higher video resolution
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 records higher-resolution video than the average camera (3,840 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
    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

    Olympus PEN E-PL9 records higher-resolution video than the average camera (3,840 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.3840 px vs 1920 px
  • 3.4x higher video bitrate
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a higher video bitrate than the average camera (102 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 PEN E-PL9 has a higher video bitrate than the average camera (102 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.102 Mbps vs 30 Mbps
  • Has a touchscreen
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
    What it is: Indicates that the display acts as an input device, recognizing touch gestures.
    When it matters: When you interact with your device using intuitive taps and gestures.

    Importance: LOW

    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
  • Has a touchscreen
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a touchscreen, the average camera does not. 36.6% of cameras support touchscreen input.
  • Sensor cleaning system
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 includes a sensor cleaning system, the average camera does not.
  • 5 newer
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 is newer than the average camera (2018 vs 2013). The average camera was released in 2013.
  • 0.4 µm larger main-camera pixels
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a higher main camera pixel size than the average camera (3.7 µm vs 3.34 µm). The average camera has a main camera pixel size of 3.34 µm.
  • In-body stabilization
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports in-body stabilization, the average camera does not.
  • Human eye AF
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports human eye-detection AF, the average camera does not.
  • 98 more AF points
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has more focus points than the average camera (121 vs 23). The average camera offers 23 focus points.
  • 1,770 s longer maximum exposure
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 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.
  • 2.9 fps faster mechanical burst
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a faster mechanical burst rate than the average camera (8.6 fps vs 5.7 fps). The average camera shoots at 5.7 fps.
  • Lossless compressed RAW
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports lossless compressed RAW, while the average camera does not.
  • Supports touch autofocus
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports touch autofocus, the average camera does not. 34.9% of cameras support touch autofocus.
  • Supports slow-motion video
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports slow-motion video, the average camera does not.
  • 1920 px higher video resolution
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 records higher-resolution video than the average camera (3,840 px vs 1920 px). The average camera records at 1920 px.
  • 3.4x higher video bitrate
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a higher video bitrate than the average camera (102 Mbps vs 30 Mbps). The average camera records at 30 Mbps.
  • Built-in timelapse
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 includes timelapse capture, the average camera does not.
  • Supports 24p cinema mode
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports 24p cinema mode, the average camera does not. 44% of cameras support this mode.
  • Has Bluetooth
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports Bluetooth, the average camera does not. 22.7% of cameras support Bluetooth.
  • Supports Wi-Fi connectivity
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports Wi-Fi, the average camera does not. 47.8% of cameras support Wi-Fi.
  • Smartphone remote control
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 supports smartphone remote control, the average camera does not. 46.2% of cameras support smartphone remote control.
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 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 PEN E-PL9 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (four thirds vs APS-C).
  • 0.1 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (16.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (-2 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
  • 0.5 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
  • 50,000 fewer shutter cycles
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a lower shutter durability than the average camera (50,000 vs 100,000). The average camera is rated for 100,000 shutter cycles.
    unofficial estimate
  • Lower RAW bit depth
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 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 PEN E-PL9 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 PEN E-PL9 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 PEN E-PL9 has a smaller sensor than the average camera (four thirds vs APS-C).four thirds vs APS-C
  • Worse low-light autofocus
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (-2 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.
    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 PEN E-PL9 has a worse low-light AF sensitivity than the average camera (-2 EV vs -4 EV). The average camera reaches a low-light AF sensitivity of -4 EV.-2 vs -4
  • 0.5 stops lower CIPA stabilization rating
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.
    What it is: The official stabilization effectiveness rating measured under CIPA standards, usually expressed in stops.
    When it matters: When you compare how effective stabilization really is for handheld shooting at slower shutter speeds.

    Importance: HIGH

    Good value: At least 5 stops

    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a lower CIPA stabilization rating than the average camera (3.5 stops vs 4 stops). The average camera has a CIPA stabilization rating of 4 stops.3.5 stops vs 4 stops
  • 0.1 MP lower resolution on the main camera
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (16.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.
    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

    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a lower main camera resolution than the average camera (16.1 MP vs 16.2 MP). The average camera has a main camera resolution of 16.2 MP.16.1 MP vs 16.2 MP
  • 50,000 fewer shutter cycles
    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a lower shutter durability than the average camera (50,000 vs 100,000). The average camera is rated for 100,000 shutter cycles.
    unofficial estimate
    What it is: The rated number of shutter actuations the mechanical shutter is designed to withstand.
    When it matters: When you expect very heavy long-term use and want more confidence in the mechanical shutter lifespan.

    Importance: LOW

    Good value: At least 200,000 actuations

    Olympus PEN E-PL9 has a lower shutter durability than the average camera (50,000 vs 100,000). The average camera is rated for 100,000 shutter cycles.50,000 vs 100,000

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Third-party reviews

What customers like about Olympus PEN E-PL9?

  • Stylish, compact, and premium metal build with a pocketable design
  • Excellent, user-friendly 180-degree flip-down touchscreen, making it great for selfies and vlogging
  • Built-in 3-axis image stabilization delivers sharp handheld shots and smooth video
  • Solid 16.1 MP sensor paired with a TruePic VIII processor, providing high-quality images and 4K 30fps video
  • Seamless Bluetooth and Wi-Fi integration with the OI.Share app for easy photo transfer and social media sharing

What customers dislike about Olympus PEN E-PL9?

  • No external microphone jack or audio input options, which limits professional vlogging audio
  • Controls can feel too simplified for advanced users, lacking physical buttons for critical quick settings like ISO
  • The 180-degree flip-down touchscreen can be blocked if using a tripod or specific mounts
  • Uses an older-generation 16-megapixel sensor, which may lack the low-light/crop flexibility of newer 24MP or 26MP cameras
  • No built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF), which can make shooting in bright daylight difficult

Expert reviews

E
ephotozine.com
07/02/2018

The ePHOTOzine review rates the Olympus PEN E-PL9 as a stylish, high-value entry-level mirrorless camera suitable for smartphone upgraders, highlighting excellent direct JPEG output, effective 3-axis image stabilization, and the addition of 4K video with a pop-up flash. Key advantages include intuitive controls and solid performance for casual shooting, making it a capable, portable...Read more

D
digitalcameraworld.com
20/11/2018

Olympus PEN E-PL9 Review Summary The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a stylish, lightweight travel camera designed for bloggers, influencers, and smartphone users who want to upgrade their image quality without dealing with complex technical settings. It features a retro leather-look finish and a 180-degree flip-down touchscreen that makes taking selfies easy and unblocked. On the inside, it...Read more

P
pocket-lint.com
05/02/2018

The Olympus Pen E-PL9 is a user-friendly, mirrorless camera that offers modest updates over its predecessor. It features key upgrades like 4K video recording up to 30fps, a new TruePic VIII image processor, and a built-in pop-up flash. Beginners will love the Advanced Photo (AP) mode, which allows quick access to creative settings like multiple exposures without digging through...Read more

S
stylonylon.com
18/06/2018

The Olympus Pen E-PL9 is a highly portable mirrorless camera that offers a solid build quality upgrade over its predecessor, the E-PL8, with a reinforced menu layout that prevents accidental video recording triggers. Key advantages of this model include the addition of 4K video resolution, the ability to trigger recording remotely via the Olympus Share app, and an improved...Read more

F
focus-review.com
05/02/2019

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a stylish, ultra-compact Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera designed primarily for smartphone upgraders, beginners, and vloggers looking for better image quality without sacrificing portability. Boasting a retro-inspired look available in multiple colors, it builds upon its predecessor by introducing 4K video recording, a newly integrated built-in flash,...Read more

O
olympuspassion.com
20/07/2023

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a highly attractive mirrorless camera that elegantly combines the best design aspects of its predecessors, the E-PL7 and E-PL8, while retaining a layout familiar to previous users. The review highlights several notable upgrades, most significantly the inclusion of 4K video recording and the addition of a built-in pop-up flash—a retro design choice that was...Read more

H
hyggeforhome.com
01/10/2019

The Hygge For Home review highlights the Olympus Pen E-PL9 as a stylish, compact mirrorless camera capable of excellent low-light performance and creative, low-angle shots with its 180-degree touchscreen. Key advantages for interior photography include user-friendly Live Guide modes and a lightweight design ideal for bloggers. Conversely, the review notes the 14-42mm kit lens is too...Read more

E
ephotozine.com
26/02/2018

The ePHOTOzine review highlights the Olympus PEN E-PL9 as a stylish, entry-level mirrorless camera featuring a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, 3-axis in-camera image stabilization, and 4K video recording, all housed in a compact design with a new, improved handgrip. The camera is praised for its excellent color, sharp JPEGs, and the addition of a built-in flash, making it a...Read more

C
cameralabs.com
06/08/2018

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is an entry-level 16 Megapixel mirrorless camera utilizing the Micro Four Thirds standard, specifically redesigned to attract smartphone upgraders, bloggers, and vloggers. A key highlight is its highly effective in-body image stabilization, which delivers smooth 4K video at 30p and sharp handheld images. The camera improves on its predecessor by integrating a...Read more

D
digitalkamera.de
07/05/2018

The Olympus Pen E-PL9 is a stylish, entry-level mirrorless camera featuring a retro design, improved 3-axis image stabilization, and 4K video recording, according to a review by Digitalkamera.de. Key advantages include a redesigned grip for better handling, an integrated pop-up flash, and enhanced connectivity with both Wi-Fi and Bluetooth for automatic image transfer. Conversely,...Read more

D
dkamera.de
13/04/2018

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a stylish, compact mirrorless camera featuring a rapid 0.13-second autofocus, near-instantaneous shutter response, and capable 4K video recording. While offering high-quality construction and an improved user experience, it faces significant limitations with a severely reduced 2.4 frames-per-second burst rate when shooting in RAW format. Although the silent...Read more

C
chip.de
07/02/2018

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a lightweight (332g), entry-level mirrorless camera built specifically for the "Instagram generation" looking to upgrade from smartphone photography. Featuring a 16-megapixel Four-Thirds sensor paired with a TruePic VIII image processor, it delivers solid overall image quality with well-controlled image noise up to ISO 6,400, alongside sharp 4K (UHD) video...Read more

F
fotomagazin.de
05/06/2018

The fotoMAGAZIN review highlights the Olympus Pen E-PL9 as a small, stylish, and highly capable Micro Four Thirds camera that introduces key upgrades over the older E-PL8. On the positive side (pros), the camera brings 4K video recording at 30p, an expanded autofocus system with 121 AF points, and a new Advanced Photo (AP) mode on the dial for easy access to creative settings like...Read more

F
fotohits.de
23/07/2026

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a stylish, ultra-compact Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera featuring a 16-megapixel sensor and a retro-inspired metal body design. It integrates the advanced "TruePic VIII" processor found in flagship models, allowing for 4K video recording at up to 30 frames per second and improved high-ISO noise processing. Aimed heavily at bloggers and smartphone...Read more

L
lesnumeriques.com
10/04/2018

The Olympus Pen E-PL9 is a stylish, retro-designed micro four-thirds hybrid mirrorless camera that offers several functional upgrades over its predecessor, the E-PL8. Powered by the TruePic VIII processor and a new 121-point autofocus system, the camera delivers snappy overall performance and introduces crisp, uncropped 4K/UHD video recording at up to 30p, alongside a 60p option in...Read more

L
leclaireur.fnac.com
18/11/2019

The Labo Fnac review highlights the Olympus PEN E-PL9 as a retro, compact mirrorless camera tailored heavily for smartphone users upgrading to their first camera, thanks to its extensive automatic and creative modes. Equipped with a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor and a TruePic VIII processor, the camera features a tilting touch screen, a newly added pop-up flash on the left...Read more

P
photo-review.com
17/04/2019

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a highly stylish and compact 16.1 Megapixel Micro 4/3 mirrorless camera designed for beginners transitioning away from smartphones. It is powered by the TruePic VIII image processor, features a 3-inch tilting touchscreen, and records 4K video. The camera targets a lifestyle audience by blending an aesthetic leatherette finish in multiple colors with a...Read more

F
fotocamerapro.it
27/05/2019

The Olympus Pen E-PL9 is an entry-level Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera designed for beginners, travelers, and social media content creators looking to step up from smartphone photography. It features a 16.1-megapixel Live MOS sensor paired with a TruePic VIII image processor, enabling 4K video recording at 30 fps and a boosted autofocus system with 121 contrast-detection...Read more

A
altroconsumo.it
Data non specificata

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 (tested with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm lens) is a mirrorless camera that earned a "Best Buy" distinction for its balance of performance and affordability. It features a 15.9 Megapixel Micro 4/3 sensor and provides generally good photo quality, particularly in outdoor settings and portraits. The camera is noted for being user-friendly, lightweight at 432g,...Read more

C
camerarace.com
Data non specificata

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a highly portable, entry-level mirrorless camera praised for its compact, lightweight design, and excellent ergonomics suitable for street and daily photography. It offers solid performance features, including a responsive autofocus system, a tilting touchscreen, built-in flash, and easy smartphone connectivity. However, the camera is limited by an aging...Read more

F
focus-review.com
21/12/2018

The Olympus PEN E-PL9 is a stylish, ultra-compact Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera designed for beginners, vloggers, and mobile photographers transitioning from a smartphone. Upgraded from its predecessor with a new processor, it features 4K video recording, built-in Bluetooth for continuous smartphone pairing, and an integrated flash alongside its hotshoe. Performance-wise, the...Read more

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