CameraReview
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II
59
SCORE
Olympus · Mirrorless · 16.1 MP · Micro Four Thirds · Full HD video

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II

General 59Optics 58Video Performance 70Features and Benefits 70Storage and Battery 21
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KEY FACTS
BrandOlympus
ModelOM-D E-M5 Mark II
Released2015
Announcement date05/02/2015
Camera typeMirrorless

General 59

Brand
Olympus
Model
OM-D E-M5 Mark II
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2015
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
05/02/2015
Camera type
Mirrorless
Camera size
124 x 85 x 45 mm
Camera weight
469 g

Optics 58

Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
16.1 MP050
Image resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4608 x 3456
Sensor type
The camera sensor captures light and records the image. Sensors vary in physical size, the number of pixels, and quality.
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
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.
10 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 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
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.
256003003280000
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.
256003003280000
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.
810300
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.
Electronic
Viewfinder dots
236000009900000
Read our notes on optics

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II receives a score of 59/100, with its general specifications revealing it as a fairly competitive camera in today’s market. Announced on 02/05/2015 and released in the same year, this mirrorless camera initially retailed for $1100. Its dimensions measure 124 x 85 x 45mm, and it weighs 469g (1.03lbs). These specifications show that the E-M5 Mark II is a compact and lightweight option for photographers seeking a reliable and portable camera.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Overview and Optics

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II receives a score of 58/100 for its optics. This camera features a 16.1-megapixel CMOS sensor and a TruePic VII processor, which contribute to its DXOMARK score of 73. The camera’s shooting speed is 10 frames per second, while its sensor size is Micro Four Thirds. Additionally, it has a Micro 4/3 lens mount and offers image stabilization.

In the current market, the 16.1-megapixel sensor and 10 fps shooting speed are considered modest, as higher-end cameras now offer more megapixels and faster shooting speeds. However, the image stabilization and Micro 4/3 lens mount are desirable features that enhance the camera’s usability and compatibility with various lenses.

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II’s optics may not be the most advanced, but its combination of features still makes it a reliable choice for photographers seeking a versatile camera with a compact design.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Video Performance 70

Video
Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video.
Yes
Max video resolution
The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video.
Full HD
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.
1920 x 1080
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.
60 fps
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.
Yes
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
Read our notes on olympus om-d e-m5 mark ii video performance

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II receives a video score of 70 out of 100. This camera offers Full HD video resolution, with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels. It also supports a maximum video frame rate of 60fps, ensuring smooth video playback. Additionally, the camera features built-in time-lapse functionality, providing creative options for capturing events over time.

In today’s market, Full HD resolution is considered standard, but not exceptional, as 4K resolution becomes increasingly popular. The 60fps frame rate, however, remains competitive for capturing fast-moving subjects and producing high-quality slow-motion footage. While the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II may not boast the highest video resolution, its other video capabilities still hold relevance and appeal for various users, making it a solid choice for those seeking a dependable camera with time-lapse functionality.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Features and Benefits 70

Builtin flash
A built-in flash will often be positioned right above the lens. This will automatically pop up when you activate it.
No
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.
Yes
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.
Yes
Screen size
3"
Screen dots
Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel.
10370001150001500000
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.
Yes
Bluetooth
Bluetooth capabilities allow you wireless control of your camera with other external devices.
No
Read our notes on olympus om-d e-m5 mark ii features and benefits

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II receives a feature score of 70/100. With a 3-inch touchscreen and a screen resolution of 1,037,000 dots, this camera offers clear and precise image previews. The flip screen further enhances the user experience, making it convenient for capturing images from various angles.

Despite lacking GPS and Bluetooth capabilities, the OM-D E-M5 Mark II compensates with its built-in Wi-Fi feature, allowing users to easily transfer images and control the camera remotely. In today’s market, these features make the camera competitive and suitable for various photography styles.

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II is a solid choice for photographers seeking a versatile camera with a balance of essential features and user-friendly functions.

Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Storage and Battery 21

Memory card
SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
No
Battery type
BLN-1
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
310 shots1505000
USB charging
No
Read our notes on olympus om-d e-m5 mark ii storage and battery

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II receives a storage and battery score of 21/100. This camera offers a single memory card slot that accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards, providing users with a range of storage options. However, the battery life is limited to 310 shots per charge, which may not be sufficient for extended shooting sessions. The battery used is a BLN-1 type, and the camera does not support USB charging.

Comparing these specifications to other cameras on the market, the OM-D E-M5 Mark II falls short in terms of battery life and storage capabilities. Offering only one memory card slot and lacking USB charging functionality are notable drawbacks for photographers who need longer shooting times and convenient charging options. Despite its strong performance in other areas, the OM-D E-M5 Mark II’s storage and battery features could be improved to better meet the demands of today’s photographers.