CameraReviews.com
menu
Hi Camera Lovers 👋 If you buy a camera through our referral links, you support our site at no cost to you 😉 Full info here.

Olympus PEN E-PM1 Specs and Scores

Optics
Video
Features
Storage & Battery
Olympus PEN E-PM1
42%
General
42%
Price
Brand
Olympus
Model
PEN E-PM1
Released
Refers to the year this camera was officially made available for sale.
2011
Announcement Date
Refers to the date the manufacturer publicly announced the upcoming release and general specs of this camera.
June 30, 2011
Camera Type
Mirrorless
Camera Size
Camera Weight

The Olympus PEN E-PM1 receives a score of 42/100. This mirrorless camera was announced on June 30, 2011, and released the same year. Priced at $499 during its launch, the E-PM1 measures 110 x 64 x 34mm and weighs 265g (0.58lbs).

Compared to today’s market, the E-PM1’s specifications are not as competitive. However, it is important to remember that this camera was released a decade ago, and advancements in technology have since improved camera features. That said, the Olympus PEN E-PM1 still has its own merits and can be suitable for certain photography needs.

Olympus PEN E-PM1 Overview and Optics

The Olympus PEN E-PM1 receives a score of 47/100 for its optics. This camera features a 12.3-megapixel CMOS sensor, with a Micro Four Thirds sensor size and a 4:3 aspect ratio. The E-PM1 is equipped with a TruePic VI processor, which allows for a shooting speed of 5.5 frames per second. Additionally, the camera’s DXOMARK score for the sensor is 52.

The E-PM1 has a Micro 4/3 lens mount and offers image stabilization. Compared to current market standards, the 12.3-megapixel sensor and 5.5 fps shooting speed fall short as newer models offer higher megapixels and faster shooting speeds. However, the Micro Four Thirds sensor size and image stabilization are still relevant and beneficial for various shooting situations.

While the Olympus PEN E-PM1’s optics may not be the most advanced on the market, they provide satisfactory performance for casual photographers and those looking for a compact camera with a decent sensor size and image stabilization.

Optics
Optics
47%
Megapixels
The higher the number of megapixels, the more detail the cameras sensor can capture.
12.3 MP
Image Resolution
Image resolution is measured in pixels and megapixels, width by height. The higher the number, the higher its resolution.
4032 x 3024 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.
5.5 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.
12,800
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.
200
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.
12800
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.
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-PM1 Video Performance

The Olympus PEN E-PM1 receives a video score of 56/100, which is a moderate rating. This camera offers Full HD video resolution with maximum dimensions of 1920 x 1080 pixels. The highest video frame rate achievable is 60fps, providing smooth motion capture. However, the camera lacks built-in time-lapse functionality, which is a disadvantage for those interested in creative videography.

When considering the current market, the E-PM1’s video capabilities are decent but not exceptional. Many contemporary cameras now offer 4K resolution and advanced features such as time-lapse, making the E-PM1’s offerings somewhat dated. Nevertheless, the camera still produces quality Full HD videos suitable for casual users and those not seeking advanced videography options.

The Olympus PEN E-PM1’s video capabilities are satisfactory for basic needs, but those seeking cutting-edge video features may wish to explore other options in the market.

Video
Video
56%
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.
60 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.
AVCHD

Olympus PEN E-PM1 Features and Benefits

The Olympus PEN E-PM1’s features score is 36 out of 100, which may seem low, but let’s consider the specifics. The camera has a 3-inch screen with a resolution of 460,000 dots. This screen size and resolution is standard for many cameras, but it lacks some modern features found in today’s market. For instance, the E-PM1 does not have a touchscreen, flip screen, GPS, WIFI, or Bluetooth capabilities.

While these missing features may not be essential for some users, their absence does make the camera less competitive compared to newer models. The Olympus PEN E-PM1 is a decent choice for those who value simplicity and don’t require the latest technology. However, for users who seek a more advanced and connected camera, other options may be more suitable.

Features
Features
36%
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-PM1 Storage and Battery

The Olympus PEN E-PM1 receives a storage and battery score of 21/100. This camera has one memory card slot, accepting SD, SDHC, and SDXC cards. However, its battery life is relatively short, providing only 330 shots per charge. The camera uses a BLS-5 battery type, but it does not support USB charging.

When compared to current market offerings, the E-PM1’s storage and battery specifications fall short. Many contemporary cameras boast longer battery life, multiple memory card slots, and USB charging capabilities. Thus, the E-PM1’s storage and battery performance may not meet the expectations of today’s photographers.

Storage and Battery
Storage and Battery
21%
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.
330 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 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.'
10.3 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'
499
Scores
User Scores
B&H photo video
Spotted a mistake with these camera specs? Please let us know so we can update it!