Olympus PEN E-P5 vs PEN E-PL7 Comparison
Olympus PEN E-P5
Olympus PEN E-PL7
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Brand | Olympus | Olympus | |
Model | PEN E-P5 | PEN E-PL7 | |
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. | May 10, 2013 | August 28, 2014 | |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless | Mirrorless | |
Camera Size | |||
Camera Weight |
The Olympus PEN E-PL7 edges out the Olympus PEN E-P5 with a score of 54/100 compared to 53/100. Both cameras are mirrorless, announced in 2013 and 2014, respectively. They share common specifications like camera type and similar dimensions. However, the E-PL7 is lighter at 357g and more affordable with a launch price of $600, making it a better option for budget-conscious users.
On the other hand, the E-P5 is slightly heavier at 420g and was launched at a higher price of $1000. Despite the close scores, the E-PL7’s lighter weight and lower cost make it a more attractive option for those seeking a mirrorless camera.
Olympus PEN E-P5 vs PEN E-PL7 Overview and Optics
The Olympus PEN E-PL7 takes the lead in optics, scoring 57 out of 100, while the Olympus PEN E-P5 follows closely with a score of 55. Both cameras share common specifications, including 16.1 megapixels, CMOS sensor type, Micro Four Thirds sensor size, Micro 4/3 lens mount, and image stabilization. Additionally, both cameras have a DXOMARK score of 72 for their sensors.
The E-PL7 outperforms the E-P5 in terms of its processor, as it is equipped with the TruePic VII processor, compared to the E-P5’s TruePic VI processor. This results in better image processing capabilities and overall improved image quality for the E-PL7.
On the other hand, the E-P5 holds an advantage in shooting speed, capturing images at 9 frames per second, while the E-PL7 records at 8 frames per second. This makes the E-P5 better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects or action scenes.
In conclusion, the Olympus PEN E-PL7 offers superior image processing capabilities due to its TruePic VII processor, which results in better image quality. However, the Olympus PEN E-P5 has a faster shooting speed, making it more suitable for action photography. Both cameras share many common specifications, making them comparable in terms of optics. The choice between the two cameras ultimately depends on the individual photographer’s priorities and preferences.
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Optics
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Olympus PEN E-P5
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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. | 16.1 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 17.3 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. | 9 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 VI | 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/ 8000 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. | 35 | 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. | None | None |
Olympus PEN E-P5 vs PEN E-PL7 Video Performance
The Olympus PEN E-P5 and the Olympus PEN E-PL7 both score 57/100 for their video capabilities, indicating that they have similar performance in this area. They share common specifications, such as Full HD video resolution, maximum video dimensions of 1920 x 1080, a maximum video frame rate of 30fps, and built-in time-lapse functionality.
Despite having the same score, the Olympus PEN E-P5 has some advantages over the E-PL7. One of these is the built-in time-lapse functionality, which allows users to create stunning time-lapse videos without needing any additional equipment or software. This feature is particularly useful for photographers who enjoy capturing the passage of time in their videos.
On the other hand, the Olympus PEN E-PL7 also has some strengths in its video capabilities. Like the E-P5, it offers Full HD video resolution and a maximum frame rate of 30fps, ensuring that users can capture high-quality videos with smooth motion. Additionally, the E-PL7 also features built-in time-lapse functionality, making it a strong contender in the video category.
Both cameras have impressive video capabilities, with the Olympus PEN E-P5 and E-PL7 scoring equally well in this area. Their shared features, such as Full HD video resolution, 30fps frame rate, and built-in time-lapse functionality, make them well-suited for photographers who prioritize video performance. While neither model significantly outperforms the other in this category, they both offer solid video features that should satisfy most users’ needs.
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Video
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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. |  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 | 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. | MOV, AVI | MOV, AVI |
Olympus PEN E-P5 vs PEN E-PL7 Features and Benefits
The Olympus PEN E-P5 and the Olympus PEN E-PL7 both have a feature score of 57/100, making them equally matched in terms of their specifications. They share several common features, including a 3-inch screen size, touchscreen capability, no GPS, WIFI connectivity, and no Bluetooth.
The Olympus PEN E-P5 stands out due to its slightly higher screen resolution of 1,036,800 dots, compared to the E-PL7’s 1,037,000 dots. This difference in resolution is minor, but it might offer a slightly clearer display for the E-P5 user.
On the other hand, the Olympus PEN E-PL7 has a flip screen, a feature that the E-P5 lacks. This flip screen is advantageous for taking selfies or capturing images from difficult angles. The presence of a flip screen makes the E-PL7 more versatile in terms of composition and shooting situations.
Despite their equal feature scores, both cameras have unique qualities that might cater to different users. The Olympus PEN E-P5 has a marginally better screen resolution, which could be appealing for those who prioritize image clarity on the camera’s display. Meanwhile, the Olympus PEN E-PL7’s flip screen provides added flexibility for photographers who often take selfies or shoot from unconventional angles.
In choosing between these two cameras, potential buyers should consider which features are most important to them and weigh the benefits of the E-P5’s slightly higher screen resolution against the E-PL7’s flip screen functionality.
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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. | 1,036,800 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 PEN E-P5 vs PEN E-PL7 Storage and Battery
The Olympus PEN E-P5 and the Olympus PEN E-PL7 have identical storage and battery scores of 21/100. Both cameras have one memory card slot, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Neither camera offers USB charging capabilities.
The Olympus PEN E-P5 has a battery life of 330 shots, using a BLN-2 battery type. On the other hand, the Olympus PEN E-PL7 has a slightly longer battery life of 350 shots, utilizing a BLS-50 battery type. This difference makes the E-PL7 slightly better in terms of battery life.
Despite the E-PL7’s advantage in battery life, the E-P5 does not have any specific advantages over the E-PL7 in the storage and battery category. Both cameras share the same storage capabilities, and neither has USB charging.
Considering the similarities and slight differences between the two cameras in storage and battery, the Olympus PEN E-PL7 takes a minor lead due to its longer battery life. However, both cameras provide similar storage options, making them suitable choices for photographers with similar needs.
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Storage and Battery
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC | SD / SDHC / SDXC | |
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Dual Memory Card Slots |  | | |
Battery Type | BLN-2 | 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 PEN E-P5
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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 | 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.' | 12.4 EVs | 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' | 895 | 873 |
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Scores
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Olympus PEN E-P5
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Olympus PEN E-PL7
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Olympus PEN E-P5 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 PEN E-P5 or the Olympus PEN E-PL7:
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User Scores
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Olympus PEN E-P5
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Olympus PEN E-PL7
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B&H photo video |
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