Olympus mirrorless cameras have long been a favorite among photographers of all skill levels, offering a compelling combination of compact size, powerful performance, and stunning image quality. In 2024, the torch has been passed to OM System, who acquired the Olympus camera division. However, the legacy of Olympus mirrorless cameras lives on, and OM System continues to produce some of the most exciting mirrorless options on the market.
This buyer's guide will navigate you through the current lineup of Olympus mirrorless cameras (also including some upcoming OM System models) to help you find the perfect fit for your needs and budget.
Choosing the Right Sensor Size:
One of the first things to consider when choosing an Olympus mirrorless camera is the sensor size. Olympus cameras utilize the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) sensor format, which is smaller than the full-frame sensors found in some high-end cameras. However, the MFT system offers several advantages:
- Compact size and weight: Olympus mirrorless cameras and lenses are significantly lighter and more portable than their full-frame counterparts. This makes them ideal for travel, hiking, and everyday use.
- Excellent image quality: Despite the smaller sensor size, Olympus mirrorless cameras produce exceptional image quality with sharp details and vibrant colors.
- Extensive lens selection: The MFT system boasts a wide range of high-quality lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, and other manufacturers, catering to various photographic styles.
Top Picks for Every Photographer:
1. OM System OM-1 Mark II: The Enthusiast's Powerhouse
The OM System OM-1 Mark II is the current flagship Olympus mirrorless camera, offering exceptional performance and advanced features. It boasts a powerful 20MP stacked CMOS sensor with lightning-fast autofocus and impressive low-light capabilities. The OM-1 Mark II also features a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF), a fully articulated touchscreen LCD, and weather sealing, making it ideal for all weather conditions.
Who should get it: Enthusiast photographers, professionals seeking a compact secondary camera
2. Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV: The Budget-Friendly Champion
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV remains a fantastic choice for beginners and budget-conscious photographers. This mirrorless camera offers a 16MP Live MOS sensor, a tilting touchscreen LCD, and a fast and reliable autofocus system. It's perfect for everyday photography, travel, and capturing special moments.
Who should get it: Beginners, value-conscious photographers
3. OM System OM-5: The Travel Companion
The OM System OM-5 strikes a perfect balance between portability and performance. This mirrorless camera features a 12MP sensor with excellent image quality, a compact and lightweight design, and in-body image stabilization (IBIS) for sharp handheld photos. The OM-5 also boasts a vari-angle touchscreen LCD, making it ideal for selfies and vlogging.
Who should get it: Travel photographers, vloggers
4. Olympus PEN E-P7: The Retro Charmer
For those seeking a stylish and unique mirrorless camera, the Olympus PEN E-P7 is a compelling option. This camera features a 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, a classic rangefinder design, and a high-resolution electronic viewfinder. The PEN E-P7 is perfect for street photography, fashion photography, and adding a touch of retro flair to your images.
Who should get it: Style-conscious photographers, street photographers
5. OM System Tough TG-7: The Rugged Adventurer
Looking for an Olympus mirrorless camera in Canada that can handle the elements? Look no further than the OM System Tough TG-7. This camera is waterproof, shockproof, dustproof, freeze-proof, and crushproof, making it perfect for outdoor adventures, travel, and underwater photography. While it features a smaller sensor compared to other models, it's a fantastic option for capturing action and exploring harsh environments.
Who should get it: Adventure photographers, vloggers seeking a durable camera
Beyond the Camera Body:
Remember, the lens you choose plays a crucial role in your photography. Olympus and OM System offer a vast selection of MFT lenses to suit various needs, from wide-angle landscapes to telephoto portraits and macro photography. Consider what kind of photography you enjoy most when selecting your lens.
Conclusion:
Olympus mirrorless cameras (and upcoming OM System models) offer a compelling proposition for photographers seeking a balance of performance, portability, and image quality. With a variety of options available, there's a perfect Olympus mirrorless camera for every photographer.