CameraReview
Olympus PEN E-PL5
51
SCORE
Olympus · Mirrorless · 16.1 MP · Micro Four Thirds · Full HD video

Olympus PEN E-PL5

General 51Optics 55Video Performance 43Features and Benefits 49Storage and Battery 21
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KEY FACTS
BrandOlympus
ModelPEN E-PL5
Released2012
Announcement date17/09/2012
Camera typeMirrorless

General 51

Brand
Olympus
Model
PEN E-PL5
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2012
Announcement date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
17/09/2012
Camera type
Mirrorless
Camera size
111 x 64 x 38 mm
Camera weight
325 g

Optics 55

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.
8 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 VI
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.
20030200
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.
3044080
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.
400080032000
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.
350300
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.
None
Viewfinder dots
N/A
Read our notes on optics

The Olympus PEN E-PL5 receives a score of 51/100 for its general specifications. Announced on September 17, 2012, and released the same year, this mirrorless camera originally retailed for $699. The E-PL5 measures 111 x 64 x 38mm and weighs 325g (0.72lbs). In today’s market, these specifications are considered outdated. Although the camera size and weight are still compact, its launch price and overall score reflect improvements in technology since its release.

Olympus PEN E-PL5 Overview and Optics

The Olympus PEN E-PL5 receives a score of 55/100 for its optics. This camera features a 16.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, paired with a TruePic VI processor. With a shooting speed of 8 frames per second, the E-PL5 is equipped for capturing fast-moving subjects. Its DXOMARK sensor score of 72 is respectable, though not groundbreaking in today’s market.

The Micro Four Thirds sensor size and Micro 4/3 lens mount allow for a wide range of lens options and flexibility. Image stabilization is included, which helps reduce camera shake and improve image sharpness. The 4:3 aspect ratio is standard for this type of camera.

Considering these specifications, the Olympus PEN E-PL5 offers decent optics performance. However, it may not stand out in the current market, where newer models boast higher megapixel counts and improved sensor technology.

Olympus PEN E-PL5 Video Performance 43

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.
30 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.
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.
MOV, AVI
Read our notes on olympus pen e-pl5 video performance

The Olympus PEN E-PL5 receives a video score of 43/100. This score reflects the camera’s video capabilities, which include a maximum resolution of Full HD (1920 x 1080) and a maximum frame rate of 30fps. However, the E-PL5 does not have built-in time-lapse functionality.

In today’s market, the E-PL5’s video specifications are not as competitive as other cameras. Full HD resolution is now considered standard, and many cameras offer higher resolutions such as 4K. A frame rate of 30fps is also considered average, with some cameras offering 60fps or higher. The lack of built-in time-lapse functionality is a drawback for those who enjoy capturing time-lapse videos.

Considering these factors, the Olympus PEN E-PL5’s video capabilities are not as impressive as other cameras in the market. Potential buyers may want to explore other options with better video specifications to meet their needs.

Olympus PEN E-PL5 Features and Benefits 49

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.
No
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.
4600001150001500000
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
Read our notes on olympus pen e-pl5 features and benefits

The Olympus PEN E-PL5 receives a feature score of 49 out of 100. This camera has a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 460,000 dots, providing decent image quality for previewing photos. The touchscreen and flip screen functionalities offer convenience and flexibility for composing shots, especially in challenging angles.

However, the camera lacks some modern features that are now common in today’s market. It does not have GPS, WiFi, or Bluetooth capabilities. These omissions may limit its appeal to users who rely on seamless connectivity for sharing and geotagging their photos.

The Olympus PEN E-PL5 has its strengths and weaknesses when it comes to features. While it provides a satisfactory screen and user-friendly controls, it falls short in terms of connectivity options. Potential buyers should weigh these factors when considering this camera.

Olympus PEN E-PL5 Storage and Battery 21

Memory card
SD / SDHC / SDXC
Dual memory card slots
No
Battery type
BLS-5
Battery life
Approximately how long this cameras battery will last measured by how many photographs you will be able to take.
360 shots1505000
USB charging
No
Read our notes on olympus pen e-pl5 storage and battery

The Olympus PEN E-PL5 receives a storage and battery score of 21/100. This camera has one memory card slot, which accepts SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. A single battery life provides 360 shots, powered by a BLS-5 battery. However, the camera lacks USB charging capabilities.

In comparison with other cameras, the Olympus PEN E-PL5’s storage and battery specifications may seem lacking. The single memory card slot and absence of USB charging are limiting factors for those who require more flexibility and convenience in their photography experience. The 360-shot battery life is also relatively low, compared to the higher battery capacities of other cameras in the market.

With these factors in mind, the Olympus PEN E-PL5’s storage and battery features may not be the most competitive in today’s market. However, the camera’s other qualities, such as its optics and video features, still contribute to its overall appeal for certain photographers.