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Olympus E510

Optics
Features
Storage & Battery
Olympus E510
35%
General
35%
Price
Brand
Olympus
Model
E510
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2007
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
March 05, 2007
Camera Type
DSLR
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Olympus E510 receives a score of 35/100 in our evaluation. Launched in 2007 with an introductory price of $593, this DSLR camera measures 136 x 92 x 68mm and weighs 490g (1.08lbs). Considering the advancements in camera technology over the years, the E510’s specifications may not be impressive in today’s market. However, it was a solid option for photography enthusiasts during its time. While its score does not dictate its quality, it showcases the camera’s capabilities in relation to contemporary alternatives.

Olympus E510 Overview and Optics

The Olympus E510 scores 34 out of 100 in our optics evaluation. With 10 megapixels, a shooting speed of 3 frames per second, and an NMOS sensor, the camera may seem underwhelming compared to modern offerings. The TruePic III processor and a DXOMARK sensor score of 52 further emphasize its dated performance. The camera features a Micro Four Thirds sensor size and lens mount, which is smaller than the more popular APS-C and full-frame formats.

However, the E510 does offer a 4:3 aspect ratio, which can be ideal for certain photography styles. Unfortunately, the camera lacks image stabilization, a crucial feature for capturing sharp, blur-free images. This absence of modern specifications makes it difficult for the Olympus E510 to compete with current camera models.

The Olympus E510’s optics are not up to par with today’s market standards, making it a less desirable choice for photographers seeking advanced features and performance.

Optics
Optics
34%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
10 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
3648 x 2736 px
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.
14 x 18 mm
Sensor Format
Refers to the most commonly used sensor sizes.
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.
3 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
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
Minimum ISO (Native)
Refers to the lowest native (or 'base') ISO setting. Lower ISO are less sensitive to light but make a cleaner image.
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.
1,600
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
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.
1600
Minimum Shutter Speed
The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory.
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
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.
3
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.
Optical (pentamirror)

Olympus E510 Video Performance

The Olympus E510 lacks video capabilities. This camera only captures still images, not video recordings.

Video
Video
Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
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.

Olympus E510 Features and Benefits

The Olympus E510 scores 30 out of 100 in the features category. This camera has a 2.5-inch screen with a resolution of 230,000 dots. The Olympus E510 does not have a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WIFI, or Bluetooth capabilities.

Compared to today’s market, the Olympus E510’s features are limited. Modern cameras often have larger screens, higher resolution, and advanced connectivity options. The lack of a touchscreen, flip screen, and wireless connectivity options make the Olympus E510 less convenient for users who need these features for their photography needs.

Despite its low feature score, the Olympus E510 still provides satisfactory performance for users who prioritize basic photography functions over advanced features. However, users seeking a camera with more up-to-date capabilities may want to consider other options.

Features
Features
30%
Built-in 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
Touch Screen
Touchscreen allows you to change camera settings and access menus with a swipe of your finger, instead of using buttons.
Screen Size
2.5"
Screen Resolution
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
230,000 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 E510 Storage and Battery

The Olympus E510 receives a storage and battery score of 57/100. This camera has two memory card slots, accepting Compact Flash (Type I or II) and xD Picture Cards. This variety of card options provides flexibility for users. However, the absence of SD card compatibility, a popular format in today’s market, may be seen as a drawback.

The E510’s battery life allows for 440 shots, powered by a BLM-1 battery type. While this may have been impressive when the camera was first released, it falls short compared to modern cameras that offer longer battery life. Additionally, the lack of USB charging limits the charging options for users.

Considering the storage and battery aspects, the Olympus E510 shows its age with limited memory card compatibility and battery life. Although still functional, it may not be the top choice for those seeking advanced features in these areas.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
57%
Memory Card
Compact Flash (Type I or II), xD Picture Card
Dual Memory Card Slots
Battery Type
BLM-1
Battery Life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
440 shots
USB Charging
DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK
Overall Score
DXOMARK overall sensor score.
52%
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.'
21.2 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.'
10 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'
442
Scores
User Scores
B&H photo video
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