CameraReview

Olympus E30

Olympus · DSLR · 12.3 MP · Micro Four Thirds

Olympus E30

Score Breakdown

Scores combine our editorial testing with published lab data.

Optics 44
Features 34
Storage & Battery 68
43
SCORE /100
Independent Lab Scores
THIRD-PARTY LAB DATA · DXOMARK
55
Overall score
21.3
Color depth
10.4
Dynamic range
530
Low light ISO
Independent measurement — not part of our /100 score.
Buying Options

General

BrandOlympus
ModelE30
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2008
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
November 5, 2008
Camera typeDSLR
Camera size142 x 108 x 75 mm
Camera weight695 g

Optics

44/100
About This Section

Olympus E30 Overview and Optics

The Olympus E30’s optics score stands at 44/100. It features a 12.3-megapixel NMOS sensor with a TruePic III+ processor. The camera’s shooting speed is 5 frames per second, and it has a DXOMARK sensor score of 55. The E30 uses a Micro Four Thirds sensor size and a Micro 4/3 lens mount, with built-in image stabilization and a 4:3 aspect ratio.

Compared to other cameras in today’s market, the Olympus E30’s specifications may not be the most competitive. The 12.3-megapixel sensor and 5 fps shooting speed are surpassed by many modern cameras, as is the DXOMARK score of 55. However, the camera’s Micro Four Thirds system and image stabilization remain relevant features.

The Olympus E30 provides solid optics for casual and beginner photographers, but its specifications may not be sufficient for those seeking more advanced capabilities. While the camera has some noteworthy features, it may struggle to compete with newer models in the market.

Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
12.3 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4032 x 3024
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
NMOS
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
Sensor format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
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.
5 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
Image processor
The image processor in the camera converts the information collected on the sensor for digital storage on the memory card.
TruePic III+
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
Min ISO
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
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.
32003003280000
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
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.
32003003280000
Minimum shutter speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
6044080
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.
800080032000
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.
110300
In-body stabilisation
In-body Stabilization means the camera has a certain technology embedded that counteracts camera shake.
Yes
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.
Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder dotsN/A

Video

About This Section

The Olympus E30 does not possess video capabilities. This camera focuses on photography alone, without the option to record video.

Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
No
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
N/A
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.
N/A
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.
N/A
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.
No
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.
N/A

Features

34/100
About This Section

The Olympus E30 features a score of 34/100, which is not impressive in today’s market. Its screen measures 2.7 inches, with a resolution of 230,000 dots. While the camera does not have a touchscreen, it does possess a flip screen for added convenience.

Unfortunately, the E30 lacks modern connectivity options such as GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth. These features are now considered standard in many cameras, and their absence in the Olympus E30 renders it less competitive.

Overall, the Olympus E30’s features are not up to par with current camera offerings. Its low feature score and outdated specifications make it less appealing to photographers who seek advanced technology and seamless connectivity in their devices.

Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
Yes
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.
Yes
GPS
GPS features in a camera will include location metadata to each of your photographs.
No
Weather sealing
Weather sealing capabilities will give you more confidence when shooting in unfavourable conditions.
No
Screen typeLCD
Touch screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
No
Screen size2.7"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
2300001150001500000
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.
Yes
Live view
Live View feature allows you to see a continuous live video of what is being seen through your lens.
Yes
Wi-Fi
Built-in Wi-Fi allows you to connect your camera and share images wirelessly.
No
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
No

Storage & Battery

68/100
About This Section

The Olympus E30 received a storage and battery score of 68 out of 100. This camera has two memory card slots, accommodating both Compact Flash (Type I or II) and xD Picture Cards. This versatility in storage options is beneficial, although these memory card types may not be as commonly used today as other formats like SD cards.

Regarding battery life, the Olympus E30 can take 750 shots on a single charge using the BLM-1 battery type. This battery life is decent for a camera in its class, but it lacks USB charging capabilities, which is a disadvantage in today’s market where most devices offer this convenient feature.

Taking into account the storage options, battery life, and the lack of USB charging, the Olympus E30’s score of 68 reflects its moderate performance in these areas. While not the best in the market, it still offers a satisfactory experience for users who can work with its specific memory card formats and battery limitations.

Memory cardCompact Flash (Type I or II), xD Picture Card
Dual memory card slotsYes
Battery typeBLM-1
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
750 shots1505000
USB chargingNo