Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III vs Sony a7 III Comparison
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
Sony a7 III
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Brand | Olympus | Sony | |
Model | OM-D E-M5 Mark III | a7 III | |
Released Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale. | 2019 | 2018 | |
Announcement Date Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera. | October 17, 2019 | February 27, 2018 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Sony a7 III emerges as the winner with a score of 80/100, while the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III trails behind at 65/100. Both cameras are mirrorless and were introduced in 2018 and 2019, respectively. They share similarities in their camera type and size, with the Sony a7 III slightly larger at 127 x 96 x 74mm compared to Olympus’ 125 x 85 x 50mm.
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III in various aspects, which justifies its higher score. However, the Olympus camera is lighter, weighing only 414g compared to the Sony’s 650g, making it more portable and easier to handle.
Despite the difference in scores, both cameras offer unique advantages. The Sony a7 III provides superior performance, while the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III offers a more compact and lightweight design. Ultimately, the choice between the two cameras depends on individual preferences and specific photography needs.
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III vs Sony a7 III Overview and Optics
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III in terms of optics, scoring 81/100 compared to the Olympus’ 60/100. Both cameras have some common specifications, such as 20 and 24.2 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, and image stabilization. Additionally, they both feature advanced processors, with the Olympus using a TruePic VIII and the Sony a7 III utilizing a Bionz X processor.
The Sony a7 III excels due to its higher DXOMARK sensor score of 96, a full frame sensor size, and a Sony FE lens mount. These features contribute to its superior image quality and performance. The full frame sensor size allows for better low-light performance and a shallower depth of field, while the Sony FE lens mount offers a wide selection of high-quality lenses.
On the other hand, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III has a faster shooting speed of 30, compared to the Sony a7 III’s 10. This makes it more suitable for capturing fast-moving subjects, such as sports or wildlife photography. The Micro Four Thirds sensor size and Micro 4/3 lens mount provide a compact and lightweight system, making it a more portable option.
To conclude, the Sony a7 III is the superior choice for photographers seeking top-notch image quality and performance, thanks to its full frame sensor, higher DXOMARK sensor score, and versatile lens options. However, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III offers advantages in shooting speed and portability, making it a suitable option for specific photography needs.
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Optics
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Sony a7 III
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 20 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. | 17.4 x 13 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. | 30 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. | 6,400 | 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/ 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. | 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 | 2,359,296 dots |
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III vs Sony a7 III Video Performance
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III outperforms the Sony a7 III in video capabilities, with a score of 91/100 compared to 56/100. Both cameras offer 4K video resolution, but the Olympus has superior video dimensions at 4096 x 2160, while the Sony’s dimensions are 3840 x 2160.
The Olympus also boasts a higher maximum video frame rate of 120fps, significantly greater than the Sony’s 30fps. This means the Olympus can capture smoother slow-motion footage. Additionally, the Olympus has built-in time-lapse functionality, which the Sony lacks. These features make the Olympus a more versatile and powerful choice for video enthusiasts.
The Sony a7 III does not surpass the Olympus in any specific video capability. However, it is important to consider other aspects of the camera, such as photography capabilities and overall performance, when making a decision.
Based on video performance alone, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is the clear winner. Its higher video dimensions, frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality give it an edge over the Sony a7 III. While the Sony may have strengths in other areas, those seeking a camera primarily for video should consider the Olympus as the superior option.
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Video
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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. | 120 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 | XAVC S, AVCHD |
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III vs Sony a7 III Features and Benefits
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III wins in the features comparison with a score of 83/100, while the Sony a7 III follows closely behind with a score of 81/100. Both cameras share several common specifications, making them comparable in terms of features.
Both the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III and the Sony a7 III have a 3-inch screen, touchscreen capabilities, flip screens, GPS, WIFI, and Bluetooth connectivity. These similarities make both cameras suitable for modern photography needs and provide users with a convenient and connected shooting experience.
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III edges ahead of the Sony a7 III with a higher screen resolution of 1,040,000 dots compared to the Sony’s 921,600 dots. This higher screen resolution means that the Olympus camera provides a clearer and more detailed display, making it easier for photographers to review their shots and make adjustments as needed.
However, the Sony a7 III does not lag far behind in terms of features, and its slightly lower score does not necessarily mean it is a lesser camera. The two-point difference may not significantly impact the overall user experience, and users may still find the Sony a7 III’s features to be impressive and valuable in their photography.
Ultimately, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is the winner in terms of features, but the Sony a7 III remains a strong contender. Users should consider their specific needs and preferences when choosing between these two cameras. Both offer a range of useful features and share many common specifications, making either camera a suitable choice for photography enthusiasts.
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Features
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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. | 1,040,000 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-M5 Mark III vs Sony a7 III Storage and Battery
The Sony a7 III outperforms the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III in storage and battery, scoring 68/100 compared to the Olympus’ 35/100. Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC memory cards, but the Sony a7 III also supports Memory Stick Duo/Pro Duo/Pro-HG Duo cards and offers two memory card slots, while the Olympus only has one slot and is UHS-II compatible.
The Sony a7 III has a significantly longer battery life of 750 shots, using the NP-FZ100 battery type. In contrast, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III provides 310 shots with its BLS-50 battery. However, the Olympus has the advantage of USB charging, which the Sony a7 III lacks.
Taking these factors into account, the Sony a7 III proves superior in storage and battery capacity, while the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III offers the convenience of USB charging.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC (UHS-II compatible) | SD / SDHC / SDXC, Memory Stick Duo / Pro Duo / Pro-HG Duo | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | BLS-50 | NP-FZ100 | |
Battery Life Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take. | 310 shots | 750 shots | |
USB Charging |  | |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
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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 | 25.1 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.' | N/A | 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' | N/A | 3722 |
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Scores
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Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
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Sony a7 III
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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 |
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User Scores
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Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
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