CameraReviews.com
menu
Hi Camera Lovers 👋 If you buy a camera through our referral links, you support our site at no cost to you 😉 Full info here.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV vs OM-D E-M5 Mark III Comparison

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV

Olympus OM-D E‑M10 Mark IV camera image
63%

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III Black Product image
Winner!
65%
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
vs
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
Price
Brand
Olympus
Olympus
Model
OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
OM-D E-M5 Mark III
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2020
2019
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
August 04, 2020
October 17, 2019
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III emerges as the winner with a score of 65/100, just 2 points ahead of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, which scored 63/100. Both cameras share the same mirrorless design and were released within a year of each other.

The E-M5 Mark III has the advantage of being slightly better in quality despite being an older model. However, the E-M10 Mark IV is lighter at 383g, compared to the E-M5 Mark III’s 414g, making it more convenient for travel and extended use.

Although the E-M5 Mark III outperforms the E-M10 Mark IV by a small margin, it is significantly more expensive, with a launch price of $1199 compared to the E-M10 Mark IV’s $699. This makes the E-M10 Mark IV a more budget-friendly option without sacrificing much in terms of performance.

Taking all aspects into consideration, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is slightly better in terms of performance, but the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV offers a more affordable and lightweight option for those seeking a mirrorless camera.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV vs OM-D E-M5 Mark III Overview and Optics

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III in optics with a score of 63/100 compared to the E-M5 Mark III’s 60/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including 20-megapixel resolution, CMOS sensor type, TruePic VIII processor, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, Micro 4/3 lens mount, and image stabilization.

The E-M10 Mark IV has a higher DXOMARK sensor score of 73, which means its sensor performs better in terms of color depth, dynamic range, and low-light performance. This advantage allows the E-M10 Mark IV to capture images with more accurate colors and better detail in various lighting conditions.

On the other hand, the E-M5 Mark III has a faster shooting speed of 30 frames per second, double the E-M10 Mark IV’s 15 frames per second. This makes the E-M5 Mark III more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects and action photography.

Considering these differences, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV is the better option for photographers who prioritize image quality and sensor performance. The higher DXOMARK sensor score gives the E-M10 Mark IV an edge in producing superior images. However, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is a more suitable choice for those who need a faster shooting speed for action or sports photography.

In comparing the two cameras, the E-M10 Mark IV takes the lead in optics quality and sensor performance, while the E-M5 Mark III excels in shooting speed. Ultimately, the choice between these two cameras depends on the photographer’s specific needs and preferences.

Optics
Optics
63%
60%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
20 MP
20 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
5184 x 3888 px
5184 x 3888 px
Sensor Type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
CMOS
CMOS
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.
13 x 17.4 mm
17.4 x 13 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
Micro Four Thirds
Micro Four Thirds
Frame Rate
The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode.
15 fps
30 fps
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.
Micro 4/3
Micro 4/3
Image Processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
TruePic VIII
TruePic 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.
4:3
4:3
Minimum ISO (Native)
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
200
200
Maximum ISO (Native)
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.
6,400
6,400
Minimum 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.
80
64
Maximum 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.
25600
25600
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
60 s
60 s
Maximum 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.
1/ 4000 s
1/ 8000 s
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.
121
121
In-body Stabilization
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.
Electronic
Electronic
Viewfinder Resolution
2,360,000 dots
2,360,000 dots

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV vs OM-D E-M5 Mark III Video Performance

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III outperforms the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV in video capabilities with a score of 91/100, an 8-point lead over the E-M10 Mark IV’s 83/100. Both cameras share common specifications, including 4K max video resolution and built-in time-lapse functionality.

The E-M5 Mark III excels with its higher max video dimensions of 4096 x 2160, compared to the E-M10 Mark IV’s 3840 x 2160. This difference allows the E-M5 Mark III to capture more detailed and sharper video content. Additionally, the E-M5 Mark III has a superior max video frame rate of 120fps, which is double the E-M10 Mark IV’s 60fps. This higher frame rate enables the E-M5 Mark III to produce smoother slow-motion footage and better action shots.

In contrast, the E-M10 Mark IV does not have any specific advantages over the E-M5 Mark III in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras share the same basic features, but the E-M5 Mark III surpasses the E-M10 Mark IV in key areas, such as video dimensions and frame rate.

Considering these factors, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is the clear winner when it comes to video capabilities. Its higher video dimensions and frame rate make it a better choice for videographers and content creators seeking superior video quality and performance. The OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, while still offering decent video features, falls short in comparison to the E-M5 Mark III.

Video
Video
83%
91%
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.
4K
4K
Max Video Dimensions
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 2160 px
4096 x 2160 px
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.
60 p
120 p
Time-Lapse 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, MOV
MPEG-4, MOV

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV vs OM-D E-M5 Mark III Features and Benefits

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III emerges as the winner in terms of features with a score of 83/100, compared to the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV’s score of 70/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, a screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots, touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, and the absence of GPS. Additionally, both cameras come equipped with WIFI and Bluetooth connectivity.

The E-M5 Mark III’s higher feature score indicates that it offers more advanced capabilities than the E-M10 Mark IV. While the specific advantages of the E-M5 Mark III over the E-M10 Mark IV are not detailed in the provided information, the higher score suggests that the E-M5 Mark III may provide users with additional features or improved functionality in certain areas.

On the other hand, the E-M10 Mark IV’s lower score does not necessarily mean that it is an inferior camera. It is possible that the E-M10 Mark IV excels in specific aspects not covered in the feature score or that it offers a more user-friendly experience for beginners. However, without further information on the specific areas in which the E-M10 Mark IV may outshine the E-M5 Mark III, it is difficult to determine its advantages.

Based on the feature scores and shared specifications, it is evident that the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is the more feature-rich option between the two cameras. However, potential buyers should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two models, as the E-M10 Mark IV may still offer advantages in certain areas not reflected in the overall feature score.

Features
Features
70%
83%
Built-in 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
TFT LCD
LCD
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 Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
1,040,000 dots
1,040,000 dots
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
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV vs OM-D E-M5 Mark III Storage and Battery

When comparing the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III in terms of storage and battery, both cameras score an equal 35/100. They share the same specifications for memory card slots, accepting one SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-II compatible) card each. Both cameras also utilize the BLS-50 battery type and offer USB charging capabilities.

The E-M10 Mark IV has a slight advantage in battery life, providing 360 shots per charge, compared to the E-M5 Mark III’s 310 shots. This difference allows the E-M10 Mark IV users to capture more photos before needing to recharge or replace the battery.

On the other hand, the E-M5 Mark III does not offer any advantages over the E-M10 Mark IV in terms of storage and battery capabilities. Consequently, the E-M10 Mark IV stands out as the better option for photographers who prioritize longer battery life. However, since both cameras have the same storage and battery score, the choice between the two will ultimately depend on the user’s preferences and other camera features.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
35%
35%
Memory Card
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible)
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
BLS-50
BLS-50
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
360 shots
310 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Scores

Alternatives to the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV and OM-D E-M5 Mark III

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV vs 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 Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV or the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III:

User Scores
B&H photo video
N/A
Spotted a mistake with these camera specs? Please let us know so we can update it!