Olympus OM-D E-M10 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 Comparison
Olympus OM-D E-M10
Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
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Brand | Olympus | Panasonic | |
Model | OM-D E-M10 | Lumix DMC-GX7 | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2014 | 2013 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | January 29, 2014 | August 01, 2013 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 outperforms the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 with a score of 54/100 compared to 52/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were released in 2014 and 2013, respectively. They share similarities in size and weight, with the E-M10 measuring 119 x 82 x 46mm and weighing 396g, while the GX7 is 123 x 71 x 55mm and weighs 402g.
The E-M10 has an advantage with a lower launch price of $700 compared to the GX7 at $999. This makes the E-M10 more affordable without compromising on quality. However, the GX7 has its merits with a slightly more compact design, which may be appealing to some users.
Taking these factors into consideration, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 emerges as the better option due to its higher score, lower launch price, and comparable specifications. While the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 is a decent camera, its higher price and lower score make it less attractive.
Olympus OM-D E-M10 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 Overview and Optics
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 triumphs over the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 in optics, with a score of 57/100 to 54/100. Both cameras share several specifications, including a 16-megapixel CMOS sensor, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, Micro 4/3 lens mount, and image stabilization. These common features make for a close competition between the two models.
The OM-D E-M10 outperforms the GX7 in several aspects. With 16.1 megapixels compared to the GX7’s 16 megapixels, the E-M10 has a slight advantage in image resolution. The E-M10’s shooting speed of 8 frames per second surpasses the GX7’s slower 5 frames per second, allowing for better capture of fast-moving subjects. Additionally, the E-M10’s TruePic VII processor and DXOMARK sensor score of 72 contribute to its superior image quality compared to the GX7’s Venus Engine processor and DXOMARK score of 70.
Despite its lower overall score, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 does have some advantages. Its image stabilization system is renowned for its effectiveness in reducing camera shake and ensuring sharp images. This feature, although also present in the E-M10, is particularly noteworthy in the GX7.
Taking these factors into consideration, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 offers better optics due to its higher resolution, faster shooting speed, and superior processor and sensor. However, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 should not be overlooked, as its effective image stabilization system can be beneficial for photographers who prioritize steady shots.
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Optics
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Olympus OM-D E-M10
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16.1 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 | 4592 x 3448 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. | 8 fps | 5 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 | |
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 | 125 | |
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. | 81 | 23 | |
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 | 1,440,000 dots | 2,764,800 dots |
Olympus OM-D E-M10 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 Video Performance
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 emerges as the winner in video capabilities with a score of 57/100, slightly edging out the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7, which scored 56/100. Both cameras share some common video specifications, such as Full HD maximum video resolution and maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080.
The OM-D E-M10 outperforms the Lumix DMC-GX7 in one key area: it has built-in time-lapse functionality. This feature allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without the need for additional software or equipment. This advantage makes the E-M10 a more versatile and convenient choice for those interested in capturing time-lapse footage.
On the other hand, the Lumix DMC-GX7 excels in its maximum video frame rate, which is 60fps, compared to the 30fps offered by the E-M10. A higher frame rate results in smoother video playback, especially for fast-moving scenes or action shots. This advantage could make the DMC-GX7 more appealing to users who prioritize smooth video quality.
Considering these points, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 is a better choice for users who value the convenience of built-in time-lapse functionality. Meanwhile, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 may be more suitable for those who prioritize smooth video playback through a higher frame rate. Despite the slight difference in scores, both cameras offer solid video capabilities, and the choice ultimately depends on the user’s specific needs and preferences.
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Video
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Olympus OM-D E-M10
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
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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 | 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. | 1920 x 1080 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. | 30 p | 60 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 | MP4 |
Olympus OM-D E-M10 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 Features and Benefits
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 both have a feature score of 57/100, making them equal in this aspect of comparison. They share several common specifications, including a 3-inch screen size, the absence of GPS and Bluetooth, and the presence of a touchscreen, flip screen, and Wi-Fi connectivity.
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 has a screen resolution of 1,037,000 dots, which is slightly lower than the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7’s 1,040,000 dots. Despite this minor difference, the E-M10 does not fall behind in terms of screen quality and resolution.
On the other hand, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 has a marginally higher screen resolution, providing a slightly clearer and sharper display. This advantage, however, is not substantial enough to declare the GX7 as a significantly better camera in terms of features.
Both cameras excel in their respective ways, with neither having a clear advantage over the other in terms of features. The Olympus OM-D E-M10 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 are equally capable, offering users a similar set of features and specifications. The minor differences in screen resolution do not create a significant impact on the overall performance and quality of the cameras. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras will depend on personal preferences and specific requirements of the user.
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Features
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
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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 | 1,040,000 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 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 Storage and Battery
The Olympus OM-D E-M10 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 both have a storage and battery score of 21/100. These cameras share common specifications in terms of storage, as they both have one memory card slot and accept SD, SDHC, and SDXC memory cards.
When it comes to battery life, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 takes the lead, offering 350 shots compared to the Olympus OM-D E-M10’s 320 shots. The battery type for the Lumix DMC-GX7 is Li-Ion, 7.2V, 1200 mAh, while the OM-D E-M10 uses a BLS-5 battery.
However, neither camera supports USB charging.
Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 has a slight advantage due to its longer battery life. Despite this, both cameras have similar storage capabilities, making them suitable choices for various photography needs.
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Storage and Battery
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Olympus OM-D E-M10
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | BLS-5 | Li-Ion, 7.2V, 1200 mAh | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 320 shots | 350 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Olympus OM-D E-M10
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
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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.' | 22.8 bits | 23.5 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.' | 12.3 EVs | 12.6 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' | 884 | 806 |
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Scores
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Olympus OM-D E-M10
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
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Olympus OM-D E-M10 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7 – 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 or the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7:
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User Scores
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Olympus OM-D E-M10
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Panasonic Lumix DMC-GX7
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B&H photo video |
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