Olympus OM-D E-M1 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Comparison
Olympus OM-D E-M1
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Brand | Olympus | Panasonic | |
Model | OM-D E-M1 | Lumix DMC-GH4 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2013 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | September 10, 2013 | February 07, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 narrowly edges out the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 with a score of 59/100 compared to 58/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2013 and 2014, respectively. They share similar dimensions, with the E-M1 measuring 130 x 94 x 63mm and weighing 497g, while the GH4 measures 133 x 93 x 84mm and weighs 560g.
The E-M1 has the advantage of a lower launch price at $1399 compared to the GH4’s $1700. However, the GH4 has its own merits, offering a slightly larger size that may provide a more comfortable grip for some users.
Taking these factors into account, both cameras offer unique benefits. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 is the winner in terms of score and price, while the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 might be preferable for those seeking a larger camera body.
Olympus OM-D E-M1 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Overview and Optics
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 triumphs over the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 in optics with a score of 58/100 compared to 52/100. Both cameras share common specifications, including 16-megapixel CMOS sensors, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, and Micro 4/3 lens mounts. However, there are key differences that set them apart.
The E-M1 has a slight edge in megapixels at 16.3 and features image stabilization, which the GH4 lacks. This allows the E-M1 to capture sharper images, especially in low light conditions or when using longer focal lengths. Its TruePic VII processor contributes to improved image quality and faster processing times.
On the other hand, the GH4 has a shooting speed of 12, making it faster than the E-M1’s 10. This advantage can be beneficial for action photography, where capturing the perfect moment is crucial. Additionally, the GH4 has a marginally better DXOMARK score for the sensor at 74 compared to the E-M1’s 73, indicating a slightly better overall image quality.
Despite the GH4’s advantages in shooting speed and sensor quality, the E-M1’s image stabilization and higher megapixel count make it the superior choice in optics. The E-M1 is better equipped to handle various shooting situations and deliver clearer, sharper images. The GH4’s faster shooting speed and marginally better sensor quality do not outweigh the benefits offered by the E-M1’s image stabilization and higher megapixel count.
In comparing the optics of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4, the E-M1 stands out as the better choice due to its image stabilization and higher megapixel count. While the GH4 has its advantages, they fail to surpass the E-M1’s overall optical performance.
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Optics
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Olympus OM-D E-M1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16.3 MP | 16 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. | 4608 x 3456 px | 4608 x 3456 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 17.3 mm | 13 x 17.3 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. | 10 fps | 12 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 VII | Venus Engine IX | |
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. | 25,600 | 25,600 | |
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. | 100 | 100 | |
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/ 8000 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. | 800 | 49 | |
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 | 2,359,000 dots |
Olympus OM-D E-M1 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Video Performance
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M1 in video capabilities with a score of 70/100 compared to 57/100. Both cameras share some common features, such as built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the GH4 has superior video specifications, making it the better choice for videographers.
The GH4’s most significant advantage is its 4K video resolution, offering 4096 x 2160 pixels compared to the E-M1’s Full HD resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels. This higher resolution allows for more detailed and sharper video footage, which is crucial for professional videography. Additionally, the GH4 has a maximum video frame rate of 24fps, which is suitable for cinematic video recording.
On the other hand, the E-M1 has a higher maximum video frame rate of 30fps, which can provide smoother motion in videos. However, this advantage is limited by its lower resolution. Despite this, the E-M1 might appeal to casual users who prioritize smooth video playback over resolution.
In terms of video capabilities, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 is the clear winner due to its 4K resolution and suitable frame rate for cinematic recording. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 may have a higher frame rate, but its lower resolution makes it less suitable for professional videography. Ultimately, the GH4’s superior video performance justifies its higher score, making it the better choice for those seeking top-notch video quality.
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Video
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Olympus OM-D E-M1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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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. |  Full HD |  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. | 1920 x 1080 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. | 30 p | 24 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. | Motion JPEG | MOV, MP4, AVCHD |
Olympus OM-D E-M1 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Features and Benefits
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 both receive a feature score of 70 out of 100, indicating a tie in terms of their overall features. Several specifications are common between these two cameras, which contribute to their equal scores. Both cameras have a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, and lack GPS. Additionally, both cameras offer WIFI connectivity but do not have Bluetooth features.
Despite having the same feature score, there are areas where the Olympus OM-D E-M1 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4. The OM-D E-M1 has a slightly higher screen resolution, with 1,037,000 dots compared to the GH4’s 1,036,000 dots. This difference in resolution results in a marginally better display quality for the OM-D E-M1.
On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 has its own advantages over the Olympus OM-D E-M1. While the difference is minimal, the GH4’s strengths lie in its equal performance in the shared specifications, such as screen size, touchscreen, flip screen, and WIFI connectivity.
Given the equal feature scores and the minor differences in screen resolution, it is clear that both the Olympus OM-D E-M1 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 are comparable in terms of their features. Each camera has its own strengths, and potential buyers should consider other factors such as price, design, and personal preferences when making their decision.
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Features
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Olympus OM-D E-M1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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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 | 1,036,000 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-M1 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 Storage and Battery
The Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M1 in storage and battery, scoring 60/100 compared to the E-M1’s 21/100. Both cameras accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. However, the GH4 offers two memory card slots, while the E-M1 has only one. This provides greater storage capacity and flexibility for the GH4.
In terms of battery life, the GH4 also has an advantage with 500 shots per charge, compared to the E-M1’s 350 shots. Both cameras use different battery types: the GH4 uses the DMW-BLF19, and the E-M1 uses the BLN-1. Neither camera offers USB charging capabilities.
Despite the E-M1’s lower score in storage and battery, it still provides adequate performance for many users. However, the GH4’s longer battery life and additional memory card slot make it a superior choice for extended shooting sessions and increased storage needs.
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Storage and Battery
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Olympus OM-D E-M1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | BLN-1 | DMW-BLF19 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 350 shots | 500 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Olympus OM-D E-M1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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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 bits | 22.1 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.' | 12.7 EVs | 11.7 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' | 757 | 721 |
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Scores
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Olympus OM-D E-M1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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Olympus OM-D E-M1 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4 – 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 or the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4:
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User Scores
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Olympus OM-D E-M1
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GH4
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B&H photo video |
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