Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs Sony a7C Comparison
Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Sony a7C
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Brand | Olympus | Sony | |
Model | OM-D E-M1 Mark II | a7C | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2016 | 2020 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 19, 2016 | November 01, 2020 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7C emerges as the winner with a score of 78/100, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II trails behind at 68/100. Both cameras share similarities as mirrorless models, released in 2016 and 2020 respectively. They also have comparable launch prices, with the Olympus priced at $2000 and the Sony at $1799.
The Sony a7C outperforms the Olympus in terms of size and weight, measuring 124 x 71 x 60mm and weighing 509g, making it more compact and lighter than the Olympus, which measures 134 x 91 x 67mm and weighs 574g. This advantage makes the Sony a7C more convenient and portable for photographers on the go.
However, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II still has merits despite its lower score. Its announcement date in 2016 means that it has been on the market longer, providing users with more time to familiarize themselves with its features and performance.
Comparing these two cameras, the Sony a7C’s compact size, lighter weight, and higher score make it the better option for most photographers. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, while still a capable camera, falls short in these areas, but may still appeal to those who prefer a more established model.
Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs Sony a7C Overview and Optics
The Sony a7C outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II in optics with a score of 80/100 compared to 68/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as CMOS sensor type, image stabilization, and a similar shooting speed (60 for Olympus and 10 for Sony). However, the differences in their specifications contribute to the discrepancy in their scores.
The Sony a7C has a higher resolution with 24.2 megapixels, a more advanced Bionz X processor, and a superior DXOMARK sensor score of 95. Moreover, its full-frame sensor size and Sony FE lens mount allow for better image quality and a wider range of compatible lenses. The 3:2 aspect ratio of the Sony a7C also provides a more standard format for photography.
On the other hand, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has a lower resolution of 20.4 megapixels, a less advanced TruePic VIII processor, and a lower DXOMARK sensor score of 80. Its Micro Four Thirds sensor size and Micro 4/3 lens mount result in a smaller selection of compatible lenses and potentially less image quality. The 4:3 aspect ratio may not be as versatile as the 3:2 format.
However, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II does have a significantly faster shooting speed of 60 compared to the Sony a7C’s 10, which could be beneficial for capturing fast-moving subjects or action photography.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7C is the superior choice for optics due to its higher resolution, better processor, and larger sensor size. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, while not as strong in optics, does offer an advantage in shooting speed for specific situations.
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Optics
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Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
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Sony a7C
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20.4 MP | 24.2 MP | |
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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 | 6000 x 4000 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 | 23.8 x 35.6 mm | |
Sensor Format Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |  Micro Four Thirds |  Full Frame | |
Frame Rate The number of sequential frames per second the camera can write to the memory card when shooting in burst or continuous mode. | 60 fps | 10 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 | Sony FE | |
Image Processor The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card. | TruePic VIII | Bionz X | |
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 |  3:2 | |
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 | 100 | |
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. | 25,600 | 51,200 | |
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. | 64 | 50 | |
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 | 204800 | |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 60 s | 30 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/ 32000 s | 1/ 4000 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 | 693 | |
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-M1 Mark II vs Sony a7C Video Performance
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II and the Sony a7C both have a video score of 70/100, indicating that their video capabilities are quite similar. They share some common specifications, including 4K video resolution and time-lapse functionality built-in. However, there are differences in their maximum video dimensions and frame rates that set them apart.
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has a higher maximum video dimension of 4096 x 2160 compared to the Sony a7C’s 3840 x 2160. This means the Olympus camera can produce videos with slightly higher resolution and more detail. Despite this advantage, the Olympus E-M1 Mark II has a lower maximum video frame rate of 24fps, which may not be ideal for capturing fast-paced action.
On the other hand, the Sony a7C offers a higher maximum video frame rate of 30fps, allowing for smoother video playback and better handling of fast-moving subjects. This can be a significant advantage for videographers who need to capture dynamic scenes. However, the a7C’s lower maximum video dimensions mean that the overall image quality may not be as detailed as the Olympus E-M1 Mark II.
Both cameras have their own strengths and weaknesses when it comes to video capabilities. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II offers higher video resolution, while the Sony a7C provides higher frame rates for smoother video playback. Users should consider their specific video needs and preferences when choosing between these two cameras, as each has its unique advantages to offer.
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Video
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Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
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Sony a7C
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  | | |
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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. | 4096 x 2160 px | 3840 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. | 24 p | 30 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. | MOV, AVI | XAVC S |
Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs Sony a7C Features and Benefits
The Sony a7C outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II with a feature score of 81/100 compared to 70/100. Both cameras share common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen functionality, flip screen, no GPS, and WIFI connectivity.
The Sony a7C surpasses the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II with its Bluetooth capability, making it more convenient for transferring files and remote control of the camera. This added feature contributes to the Sony a7C’s higher score.
However, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has a higher screen resolution at 1,037,000 dots compared to the Sony a7C’s 921,600 dots. This advantage allows for a clearer and more detailed display when reviewing images and navigating menus. Despite this advantage, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II still falls short in overall features compared to the Sony a7C.
The Sony a7C’s higher feature score and additional Bluetooth functionality make it the superior camera in terms of features. While the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II offers a higher screen resolution, it is not enough to surpass the Sony a7C’s overall performance. Therefore, the Sony a7C is the better camera based on features alone.
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Features
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Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
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Sony a7C
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Built-in Flash A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it. |   | | |
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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 | 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. | 1,037,000 dots | 921,600 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-M1 Mark II vs Sony a7C Storage and Battery
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II outperforms the Sony a7C in storage and battery with a score of 57/100, compared to the Sony a7C’s 45/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. However, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has the advantage of two memory card slots, while the Sony a7C has only one.
The Sony a7C surpasses the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II in battery life, offering 740 shots per charge compared to the Olympus’s 440 shots. Additionally, the Sony a7C uses the NP-FZ100 battery and has USB charging capabilities, whereas the Olympus relies on the BLH-1 battery without USB charging.
Despite the Sony a7C’s longer battery life and USB charging, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II emerges as the superior camera in terms of storage and battery due to its dual memory card slots. This feature provides greater flexibility and convenience for photographers, making the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II the better choice in this category.
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Storage and Battery
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Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
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Sony a7C
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | BLH-1 | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 440 shots | 740 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
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Sony a7C
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |||
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Portrait (Color Depth) As described by DXOMARK 'The Portrait score in our camera sensor reviews defines color depth performance and its unit is a number of bits. A color depth of 22 bits is excellent; differences below 1 bit are barely noticeable.' | 23.7 bits | 25 bits | |
Landscape (Dynamic Range) As described by DXOMARK 'The Landscape score in our camera sensor tests defines the maximum dynamic range of the camera sensor and its unit is an exposure value (EV). A value of 12 EV is excellent with differences below 0.5 EV usually not noticeable.' | 12.8 EVs | 14.7 EVs | |
Sports (Low-Light ISO) Described by DXOMARK as 'The maximal value of ISO sensitivity needed to reach a given value of Signal-to-Noise Ratio (SNR). The greater the value, the better' | 1312 | 3407 |
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Scores
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Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
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Sony a7C
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Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs Sony a7C – Our Verdict
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-M1 Mark II or the Sony a7C:
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User Scores
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Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
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Sony a7C
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B&H photo video |
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