Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III vs PEN E-PL7 Comparison
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
Olympus PEN E-PL7
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Brand | Olympus | Olympus | |
Model | OM-D E-M10 Mark III | PEN E-PL7 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2017 | 2014 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | August 31, 2017 | August 28, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III and the Olympus PEN E-PL7 are both mirrorless cameras with a tied score of 54/100. They share common specifications such as camera type and launch prices of $650 and $600, respectively. The E-M10 Mark III, released in 2017, has a slightly larger and heavier build at 122 x 84 x 50mm and 410g compared to the E-PL7’s 115 x 67 x 38mm and 357g, released in 2014.
The E-M10 Mark III’s larger size may offer better ergonomics and handling for some users. On the other hand, the E-PL7’s smaller size and lighter weight provide an advantage for those prioritizing portability and ease of carrying. Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses, so the choice depends on the user’s preferences and needs.
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III vs PEN E-PL7 Overview and Optics
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III and the Olympus PEN E-PL7 both receive a score of 57/100 for their optics, indicating that they have similar optical performance. They share common specifications, including 16 and 16.1 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, Micro 4/3 lens mount, and image stabilization.
The E-M10 Mark III has a slight edge in certain areas. It features a faster shooting speed of 8.6 frames per second compared to the E-PL7’s 8 frames per second. This difference allows the E-M10 Mark III to capture fast-moving subjects with more accuracy. Additionally, its TruePic VIII processor is an upgrade from the E-PL7’s TruePic VII, which contributes to better image processing and overall performance. The E-M10 Mark III also has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, at 73 compared to the E-PL7’s 72, indicating a marginally better image quality.
However, the E-PL7 does have a minor advantage in terms of megapixels, with 16.1 compared to the E-M10 Mark III’s 16. This difference, though minimal, means that the E-PL7 can capture slightly more detail in images.
Despite these minor differences, both cameras have comparable optical capabilities. The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III excels in shooting speed, processing, and sensor performance, while the Olympus PEN E-PL7 offers a slight advantage in megapixels. Since both cameras score 57/100 in optics, potential buyers should consider other factors, such as price, design, and additional features, to determine which camera best fits their needs.
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Optics
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Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
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Olympus PEN E-PL7
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16 MP | 16.1 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 17.4 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. | 8.6 fps | 8 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 VII | |
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/ 4000 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 | 81 | |
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 | None | |
Viewfinder Resolution | 2,360,000 dots | N/A |
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III vs PEN E-PL7 Video Performance
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III outperforms the Olympus PEN E-PL7 in video capabilities, with a video score of 83/100 compared to the E-PL7’s 57/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as built-in time-lapse functionality. However, the E-M10 Mark III offers more advanced video features, which contribute to its higher score.
The E-M10 Mark III has a maximum video resolution of 4K and dimensions of 3840 x 2160, while the E-PL7 reaches only Full HD resolution with dimensions of 1920 x 1080. This difference means that the E-M10 Mark III produces sharper and more detailed video quality. Moreover, the E-M10 Mark III has a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, double that of the E-PL7’s 30fps. The higher frame rate allows for smoother video playback and better slow-motion capabilities in the E-M10 Mark III.
On the other hand, the E-PL7 has no specific advantage in video capabilities over the E-M10 Mark III. Both cameras have built-in time-lapse functionality, but the E-M10 Mark III surpasses the E-PL7 in video resolution, dimensions, and frame rate.
Considering these factors, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is the clear winner when comparing video capabilities. Its 4K resolution, larger video dimensions, and higher frame rate provide superior video quality and performance. The Olympus PEN E-PL7, though sharing the time-lapse functionality, falls short in other video aspects, making the E-M10 Mark III the better choice for videographers.
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Video
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Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
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Olympus PEN E-PL7
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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 |  Full HD | |
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 | 1920 x 1080 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 | 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. | MPEG-4, MOV | MOV, AVI |
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III vs PEN E-PL7 Features and Benefits
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III and the Olympus PEN E-PL7 both have a feature score of 57/100. They share many features, such as a 3-inch screen, touchscreen capability, flip screen, no GPS, WIFI, and no Bluetooth. Despite their identical scores, there are some differences between the two cameras.
The E-M10 Mark III has a higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots compared to the E-PL7’s 1,037,000 dots. This difference, though small, gives the E-M10 Mark III a slightly better display quality. However, the E-PL7 has a unique advantage over the E-M10 Mark III: it has a selfie-friendly flip screen that can be flipped 180 degrees downward, making it ideal for self-portraits and vlogging.
Even though the E-PL7’s flip screen is more versatile, the E-M10 Mark III still offers a better overall feature set. Its higher screen resolution contributes to a more enjoyable user experience, and it has a more advanced autofocus system, which allows for faster and more accurate focusing.
On the other hand, the E-PL7 is a more compact and lightweight camera, making it easier to carry around and use for casual photography. This may be an important factor for some users who prioritize portability over features.
Taking into account these differences, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III is a better choice for those who prioritize screen resolution and autofocus performance, while the Olympus PEN E-PL7 is more suitable for users who value a compact and selfie-friendly camera.
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Features
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Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
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Olympus PEN E-PL7
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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 | 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 | 1,037,000 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 III vs PEN E-PL7 Storage and Battery
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III and the Olympus PEN E-PL7 both score 21/100 in storage and battery. They share several specifications, including one memory card slot, compatibility with SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, and the BLS-50 battery type. Neither camera has USB charging capabilities.
The OM-D E-M10 Mark III has an edge in memory card compatibility, as it accepts UHS-II cards, allowing for faster read and write speeds. This advantage benefits photographers who need to transfer data quickly. However, the PEN E-PL7 surpasses the E-M10 Mark III in battery life, providing 350 shots compared to the E-M10 Mark III’s 330 shots. This difference may be significant for users who prioritize longer shooting sessions.
Both cameras have their strengths and weaknesses in storage and battery. The E-M10 Mark III excels in memory card compatibility, while the E-PL7 offers better battery life. Users should consider their specific needs when choosing between these cameras.
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Storage and Battery
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Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
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Olympus PEN E-PL7
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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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. | 330 shots | 350 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
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Olympus PEN E-PL7
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | N/A | ||
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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.' | N/A | 22.7 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.' | N/A | 12.4 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' | N/A | 873 |
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Scores
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Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
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Olympus PEN E-PL7
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Main Features | N/A | ||
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Extra Features | N/A | ||
Construction and Durability | N/A | ||
Handling and Ergonomics | N/A | ||
Value for Money | N/A | ||
Total Score | N/A |
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III vs PEN E-PL7 – 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-M10 Mark III or the Olympus PEN E-PL7:
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User Scores
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Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark III
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Olympus PEN E-PL7
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B&H photo video | N/A |
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