CameraReview

Nikon Z fc vs Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III — Which Is Better?

Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over

✓ WINNER
Nikon Z fc
Nikon
Nikon Z fc
Mirrorless · 21 MP · APS-C · 4K video
72
SCORE
$1,146.95
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Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
Olympus
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
Mirrorless · 20 MP · Micro Four Thirds · 4K video
65
SCORE
$658.99
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Best Price →
General
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
20212019
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
29/07/202117/10/2019
Camera type MirrorlessMirrorless
Camera size 135 x 94 x 44 mm125 x 85 x 50 mm
Camera weight 445 g414 g
Optics
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
21 MP05020 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5568 x 37125184 x 3888
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOSCMOS
Sensor size
The sensor size contributes to the overall quality as well as the dynamic and tonal range a camera can capture. As a rule of thumb, the more surface there is to read the light, the more information it will capture.
23.5 x 15.717.4 x 13
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
APS-CMicro Four Thirds
Continuous shooting
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
11 fps04530 fps045
Lens mount
The lens mount will tell you what type of lens range you can fit onto the camera body. Often the same camera company will have different lens ranges for different cameras.
Nikon ZMicro 4/3
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
Expeed 6TruePic VIII
Aspect ratio
The aspect ratio refers to the proportional difference between width and height. The most popular aspect ratios are 3:2 and 4:3.
3:24:3
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
1003020020030200
Max ISO
Refers to the highest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Higher ISO is necessary for low-light situations or night photography, but higher ISOs often introduce grain or noise.
51200300328000064003003280000
Min ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
100302006430200
Max ISO (expanded)
Expanded (or extended) ISO is a digitally enhanced feature available on some cameras. It allows you to push beyond the native ISO range if necessary.
2048003003280000256003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
30440806044080
Max shutter speed
The maximum shutter speed tells you the length inside 1 second the camera will capture. These can sometimes be extended with accessories such as extra external batteries.
400080032000800080032000
Autofocus points
Autofocus points show where the camera is focusing graphically as squares or brackets in Live View or on an electronic viewfinder. These points are also used for light meter readings.
20903001210300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Viewfinder type
The viewfinder type is either electronic or optical. Electronic viewfinders will have a small screen in the viewfinder. Optical viewfinders will use prisms and mirrors to look through the lens.
ElectronicElectronic
Viewfinder dots 236000009900000236000009900000
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
4K4K
Max video format
Video resolution measured by the greatest number of pixels possible in each frame, width by height. A higher resolution means more detail or clarity in your video.
3840 x 21604096 x 2160
Max video frame rate
How many frames per second your video will capture. Most cameras have options for multiple frame rates, depending on the resolution you shoot in. For a general video, 24p or 30p is the standard, but more serious filmmakers may need a higher frame rate for creative effect.
120 fps120 fps
Timelapse built in
A built in time-lapse mode will allow continuous shooting throughout a prolonged period of time to be compressed into a sped up video.
Video file format
Different cameras can record in various video file formats. The File format you record in can impact how you edit and use the files.
MPEG-4, MOVMPEG-4, MOV
Features
Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
External flash
External flashes are often connected through a hot shoe at the top of a camera, or a cable at the side of the camera.
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
Screen type LCDLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen size 3"3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1040000115000150000010400001150001500000
Flip screen
A flip screen (or articulating screen) is a second screen which can flip out from the side or top of the camera. This rotating screen allows you more freedom to take photos at different angles.
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
Storage & battery
Memory card SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-I compatible)SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual memory card slots
Battery type EN-EL25BLS-50
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
260 shots1505000310 shots1505000
USB charging

The Nikon Z fc outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III with a score of 72 to 65. Both cameras are mirrorless and share similar dimensions, with the Nikon Z fc measuring 135 x 94 x 44mm and the Olympus at 125 x 85 x 50mm. The Nikon Z fc is slightly heavier at 445g compared to the Olympus’ 414g.

Nikon Z fc’s advantages include a more recent release date (2021) and a lower launch price of $959. This makes it a more attractive option for budget-conscious buyers seeking up-to-date technology. On the other hand, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III, released in 2019, has a higher launch price of $1199 but offers a lighter and more compact design.

Considering these factors, the Nikon Z fc is the better choice for those seeking a modern and affordable camera, while the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III may appeal to those prioritizing size and weight.

Nikon Z fc vs Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Overview and Optics

The Nikon Z fc outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III in optics, scoring 72/100 compared to the Olympus’ 60/100. Both cameras share common features, such as a CMOS sensor and a similar megapixel count (21 for the Nikon and 20 for the Olympus). However, there are key differences that set the Nikon Z fc ahead.

The Nikon Z fc has a superior sensor, with a DXOMARK score of 97 compared to the Olympus’ 55. Additionally, its sensor size is APS-C, larger than the Olympus’ Micro Four Thirds sensor. The larger sensor size contributes to the Nikon’s better image quality and low-light performance. The Nikon Z fc also has a more advanced processor, the Expeed 6, while the Olympus uses the TruePic VIII.

Despite its lower score, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III has some advantages. Its shooting speed is much faster at 30 frames per second compared to the Nikon’s 11. This makes the Olympus better suited for action photography. Furthermore, the Olympus has built-in image stabilization, while the Nikon Z fc does not. This feature can help reduce camera shake and produce sharper images.

Both cameras have unique lens mounts, with the Nikon Z fc utilizing the Nikon Z mount and the Olympus using the Micro 4/3 mount. This means that each camera has access to a different range of lenses, which may be a deciding factor for some users.

The Nikon Z fc’s superior sensor and processor make it the better option for those seeking optimal image quality and low-light performance. However, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III’s faster shooting speed and image stabilization may appeal to action photographers or those who require steadier shots. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras will depend on the user’s specific needs and preferences.

Nikon Z fc vs Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Video Performance

The Nikon Z fc and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III both score 91/100 in video capabilities, indicating that they are on par in this aspect. They share common video specifications, such as max video resolution of 4K, max video frame rate of 120fps, and built-in time-lapse functionality.

The Nikon Z fc has a max video dimension of 3840 x 2160, providing high-quality video footage. Additionally, its 120fps frame rate allows for smooth slow-motion capture, and the built-in time-lapse functionality enables users to create stunning time-lapse videos.

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III, on the other hand, offers a slightly higher max video dimension of 4096 x 2160, giving it a slight edge in video quality. Like the Nikon Z fc, it also has a 120fps frame rate and built-in time-lapse functionality, making it equally capable of producing smooth slow-motion footage and time-lapse videos.

Despite the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III having a larger max video dimension, both cameras have the same video score, indicating that their overall video capabilities are evenly matched. Users can expect high-quality video footage, smooth slow-motion capture, and excellent time-lapse functionality from both cameras.

Therefore, both the Nikon Z fc and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III are strong contenders for videographers, offering equivalent video capabilities. The choice between these two cameras ultimately depends on personal preferences and additional factors such as price, ergonomics, and lens selection.

Nikon Z fc vs Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Features and Benefits

The Nikon Z fc and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III both have a feature score of 83/100, making them equal in this aspect. They share several specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, 1,040,000-dot screen resolution, touchscreen functionality, flip screen, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both cameras support WIFI and bluetooth connectivity.

The Nikon Z fc stands out due to its retro design and larger sensor, which may appeal to photographers who prefer a classic look and better low-light performance. The larger sensor also provides a shallower depth of field, allowing for more creative control in image composition.

On the other hand, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III has a more compact and lightweight body, making it easier to carry around and hold for extended periods. Furthermore, it features in-body image stabilization, which can help reduce the effects of camera shake and improve image sharpness.

In comparing the features of both cameras, the Nikon Z fc excels in design and low-light performance due to its larger sensor, while the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III offers advantages in portability and image stabilization. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the photographer’s preferences and needs.

Nikon Z fc vs Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Storage and Battery

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III wins the storage and battery comparison with a score of 35/100, while the Nikon Z fc scores 29/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot and support USB charging. They accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards, but the Olympus has an advantage by being UHS-II compatible, allowing faster read and write speeds.

The Olympus also outperforms the Nikon in battery life, providing 310 shots per charge compared to the Nikon’s 260 shots. This longer battery life is beneficial for extended shooting sessions. The Olympus uses the BLS-50 battery, while the Nikon relies on the EN-EL25 battery.

Though the Nikon Z fc lags in this comparison, it still offers decent battery life and storage capabilities for its class. However, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is the better choice for photographers who prioritize faster memory card compatibility and longer battery life.

Nikon Z fc vs Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III – Our Verdict

Nikon Z fc vs Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Comparison image.

Are you still undecided about which camera is right for you? Have a look at these popular comparisons that feature the Nikon Z fc or the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III: