Side-by-side specs, scores and live prices. Start over
| General | ||
Released ⓘRefers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. |
2014 | 2012 |
Announcement date ⓘRefers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. |
29/01/2014 | 08/02/2012 |
| Camera type | Mirrorless | Mirrorless |
| Camera size | 119 x 82 x 46 mm | 122 x 89 x 43 mm |
| Camera weight | 396 g | 425 g |
| Optics | ||
Megapixels ⓘThe higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. |
16.1 MP050 | 16.1 MP050 |
Image resolution ⓘImage resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution. |
4608 x 3456 | 4608 x 3456 |
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 | 13 x 17.3 |
Sensor format ⓘRefers to the most commonly used sensor sizes. |
Micro Four Thirds | Micro 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. |
8 fps045 | 9 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. |
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 | TruePic VI |
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 |
Min ISO ⓘRefers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image. |
20030200 | 20030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 256003003280000 |
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. |
10030200 | 10030200 |
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. |
256003003280000 | 256003003280000 |
Minimum shutter speed ⓘThe minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. |
6044080 | 3044080 |
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. |
400080032000 | 400080032000 |
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. |
810300 | 350300 |
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. |
Electronic | Electronic |
| Viewfinder dots | 144000009900000 | 144000009900000 |
| 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. |
Full HD | Full HD |
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. |
1920 x 1080 | 1920 x 1080 |
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 fps | 30 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. |
MOV | MOV, AVI |
| 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 | LCD | OLED |
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. |
10370001150001500000 | 6100001150001500000 |
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 | SD / SDHC / SDXC |
| Dual memory card slots | ✗ | ✗ |
| Battery type | BLS-5 | BLN-1 |
Battery life ⓘApproximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. |
320 shots1505000 | 310 shots1505000 |
| USB charging | ✗ | ✗ |
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 narrowly wins with a score of 55/100, just one point ahead of the OM-D E-M10‘s 54/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and have similar dimensions, with the E-M10 measuring 119 x 82 x 46mm and the E-M5 at 122 x 89 x 43mm. They also share a similar weight, with the E-M10 being slightly lighter at 396g compared to the E-M5’s 425g.
The E-M5 has the advantage of being released two years earlier, in 2012, and despite an initial higher launch price of $999, it has managed to stay competitive. On the other hand, the E-M10 was released in 2014 with a lower launch price of $700, making it a more budget-friendly option.
Taking these factors into account, the E-M5’s slight lead in score highlights its enduring appeal and performance, while the E-M10 offers a more affordable choice for those seeking a capable mirrorless camera. Both cameras have their merits, and the choice ultimately depends on individual preferences and budget.
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M5 in optics with a score of 57/100 against 54/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, such as 16.1 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, Micro 4/3 lens mount, and image stabilization. However, there are differences that make one camera superior to the other.
The E-M10 has a higher DXOMARK score for its sensor, at 72 compared to the E-M5’s 71, and a TruePic VII processor, as opposed to the E-M5’s TruePic VI processor. These factors contribute to the E-M10’s better image quality and improved low-light performance. The advanced processor also allows for faster image processing, enhancing the camera’s overall performance.
On the other hand, the E-M5 has a slight advantage in shooting speed, with 9 frames per second compared to the E-M10’s 8 frames per second. This difference may benefit photographers who require rapid continuous shooting for capturing fast-moving subjects or action scenes. However, this advantage is minimal and might not be significant enough for some users.
Taking into account the shared features and the advantages of both cameras, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 emerges as the better option for its superior image quality and processing capabilities. While the E-M5 offers a marginally faster shooting speed, this difference is not enough to outweigh the benefits of the E-M10’s advanced processor and higher sensor score. Therefore, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 is the recommended choice for users seeking better optics and overall performance.
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M5 in video capabilities, with a video score of 57/100, while the E-M5 has a score of 43/100. This 14-point difference reveals the superiority of the E-M10 in terms of video performance.
Both cameras have common video specifications, including Full HD maximum video resolution and 1920 x 1080 maximum video dimensions. Additionally, both cameras have a maximum video frame rate of 30fps. These shared features ensure that both cameras deliver high-quality video outputs.
However, the E-M10 has an advantage over the E-M5 due to its built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows the E-M10 to capture a series of images at set intervals and combine them into a video. Time-lapse videos can create stunning visuals, showcasing the passage of time in a unique and engaging manner. The absence of this feature in the E-M5 limits its creative potential for videographers.
On the other hand, the E-M5 does not have any significant advantages over the E-M10 in terms of video capabilities. Both cameras share the same basic video specifications, and the E-M5 does not offer any additional features or improvements.
Given the comparison, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 is the superior choice for videographers due to its higher video score and built-in time-lapse functionality. While the Olympus OM-D E-M5 shares some basic video specifications with the E-M10, it lacks the additional features that make the E-M10 a more versatile and creative tool for capturing video.
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M10 with a feature score of 65/100 compared to the E-M10’s 57/100. Both cameras share some common specifications, such as a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen functionality, flip screen, and lack of GPS.
The E-M5’s advantage lies in its overall higher score, which is due to better features. The E-M10, on the other hand, has a higher screen resolution of 1,037,000 dots compared to the E-M5’s 610,000 dots. This means that the E-M10 provides a clearer and more detailed display, which can be essential for photographers when reviewing their shots or navigating the camera’s settings.
However, the E-M5 has a significant advantage over the E-M10 in terms of connectivity. The E-M5 offers WiFi functionality, which allows users to easily transfer photos to their devices or control the camera remotely. This feature is absent in the E-M10, making it less convenient for users who value seamless connectivity.
The E-M10 still has its merits despite its lower feature score. Its higher screen resolution provides a better user experience when reviewing images and using the camera’s interface. However, the E-M5’s WiFi capabilities make it a more versatile option for photographers who need to share their work or control their camera remotely.
Ultimately, the Olympus OM-D E-M5’s higher feature score reflects its superiority in terms of connectivity and overall performance. The E-M10’s higher screen resolution is a notable advantage, but it may not be enough to sway users who prioritize versatile connectivity options and a more comprehensive set of features.
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 both score 21/100 in storage and battery, making them equal in this aspect. They share common specifications, as both cameras have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards. Neither camera has USB charging.
The E-M10 has a slight advantage in battery life, with 320 shots per charge compared to the E-M5’s 310 shots. The E-M10 uses the BLS-5 battery type, while the E-M5 uses the BLN-1 battery type.
The E-M5 does not have any advantages over the E-M10 in storage and battery performance.
Considering these points, the E-M10 is slightly better in terms of battery life, while both cameras have the same storage capabilities. The lack of USB charging is a drawback for both models.

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 or the Olympus OM-D E-M5: