Olympus PEN E-PM2 Specs and Scores
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General
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Olympus PEN E-PM2
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Price | |
Brand | Olympus |
Model | PEN E-PM2 |
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. | September 17, 2012 |
Camera Type |  Mirrorless |
Camera Size | |
Camera Weight |
The Olympus PEN E-PM2 receives a score of 51/100, which reflects its general specifications. Announced on September 17, 2012, and released the same year, this mirrorless camera initially cost $599. Its dimensions are 110 x 64 x 34mm, and it weighs 269g or 0.59lbs. In today’s market, the E-PM2’s specifications may not seem outstanding, but they still provide decent performance for casual photographers. This camera’s score highlights its capabilities, making it a suitable choice for those seeking a lightweight and compact option.
Olympus PEN E-PM2 Overview and Optics
The Olympus PEN E-PM2 receives an optics score of 55/100. This camera features a 16.1-megapixel CMOS sensor, a TruePic VI processor, and a shooting speed of 8 frames per second. Its DXOMARK score for the sensor is 72, and it is equipped with Micro Four Thirds sensor size and lens mount. Additionally, the E-PM2 includes image stabilization and a 4:3 aspect ratio.
When comparing the Olympus PEN E-PM2 to other cameras in today’s market, it falls short in terms of optics. While it offers decent resolution and image quality, the camera’s specifications do not stand out among other modern cameras. The 16.1-megapixel sensor and Micro Four Thirds lens system may not be sufficient for photographers seeking high-quality images and a wide range of lens compatibility.
Although the Olympus PEN E-PM2 has some attractive features, such as image stabilization and a decent sensor, its overall optics performance is underwhelming compared to current market offerings. It may be a suitable option for casual photographers, but those seeking exceptional image quality and advanced optics should explore other options.
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Optics
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Olympus PEN E-PM2
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Megapixels The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture. | 16.1 MP |
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 |
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 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. | 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 |
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 |
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 |
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 |
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. | 25600 |
Minimum Shutter Speed The minimum shutter speed will tell you the longest exposure your camera can take without using an external accessory. | 30 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. | 35 |
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 |
Olympus PEN E-PM2 Video Performance
The Olympus PEN E-PM2’s video capabilities score is 43 out of 100. It can record Full HD videos with a maximum resolution of 1920 x 1080 pixels and a frame rate of 30fps. However, this camera lacks built-in time-lapse functionality.
In today’s market, the E-PM2’s video capabilities are somewhat limited compared to other cameras. Many modern cameras offer higher video resolutions, such as 4K, and faster frame rates for smoother playback. Additionally, time-lapse functionality is a popular feature found in various cameras, which the E-PM2 does not have.
Considering these factors, the Olympus PEN E-PM2’s video performance falls short when compared to current market options. Potential buyers should take this into account when deciding on a camera for their video needs.
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Video
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Olympus PEN E-PM2
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Video Indicates if this camera is capable of recording video. |  |
Max Video Resolution The best resolution this camera can capture video in. Modern cameras can capture up to 8K video. |  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 |
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 |
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 |
Olympus PEN E-PM2 Features and Benefits
The Olympus PEN E-PM2 scores 49/100 in the features category. With a 3-inch screen size and a resolution of 460,000 dots, the camera provides a decent display for users. The touchscreen functionality enhances user experience, making it easier to navigate through settings and review captured images. However, the absence of a flip screen may limit its versatility for certain shots and angles.
The camera lacks connectivity features such as GPS, WiFi, and Bluetooth. This means that users will not be able to geotag their photos or instantly share them with their devices, which is a drawback considering the convenience offered by these functions in today’s market.
Despite its limitations, the Olympus PEN E-PM2 still offers a reliable performance for those who prioritize simplicity and functionality over connectivity and advanced features. It is important to weigh these factors when considering the camera’s suitability for individual needs.
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Features
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Olympus PEN E-PM2
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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. |  |
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 |  3" |
Screen Resolution Screen dots indicate the resolution of the LCD screen by including each sub pixel. | 460,000 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-PM2 Storage and Battery
The Olympus PEN E-PM2 scores 21/100 for its storage and battery capabilities. This camera has one memory card slot, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. Its battery life lasts for 360 shots, using a BLS-5 battery type. Unfortunately, this camera does not support USB charging.
In today’s market, the E-PM2’s storage and battery performance is below average. Many modern cameras offer multiple memory card slots and longer battery life. Additionally, USB charging is becoming a standard feature, which the E-PM2 lacks. Thus, the storage and battery aspects of the Olympus PEN E-PM2 could be improved to better compete in the current market.
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Storage and Battery
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Olympus PEN E-PM2
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Memory Card | SD / SDHC / SDXC |
Dual Memory Card Slots |  |
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 shots |
USB Charging |  |
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DXOMARK Scores
Sensor scores tested by DXOMARK |
Olympus PEN E-PM2
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Overall Score DXOMARK overall sensor score. | |
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.' | 22.7 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.' | 12.2 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' | 932 |
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Scores
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User Scores
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Olympus PEN E-PM2
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B&H photo video |