Since March when I traded in my E-M1X for the OM-1 I didn't use my E-M1 MkIII. So I traded in my E-M1 MkIII for the OM-5. Now the OM-5 is getting used as my travel and family camera. I partner it with my 12-45/4.0, 20/1.4, 12/2.0 and 45/1.8. It makes for a very compact kit when out with family. I do wish the menu button was in the upper left corner, and an AF joystick is where the menu button is now. The Face Detection is slightly improved in the OM-5. There is a menu setting to prioritize the AF area to Face Detection. This works good for selecting a face in a group of faces. I totally agree with your analysis and summary. The OM-5 is the camera if you value compact size. The E-M1 MkIII is a better general camera.
Thanks for your many videos. They've help me a lot. I have the OM-5 and love it. Paired with the 20mm pro lens is great. Your tips on settings, ETTR, and bracketing, to include focus bracketing and stacking are terrific.
OM is selling the em1x and em1iii, here in Germany, new, for 1299€. The exactly same price as they are asking for the OM-5. Difficult to understand the OM price strategy… In my opinion, the OM-5 should cost about 999€.
I think this is just because they are OLD cameras by now, EOL, while OM-5 is still deemed „new“. If you can live without the added computational stuff and want something like the OM-5, just get an EM-5 Mark III, it is basically the same camera, and is dead cheap now, especially when bought used. I own one and don’t plan to get the OM-5. OM-5 is just an EM-5 Mark III v2 in the old naming scheme, unfortunately…
@@sourcebased the OM5 is much better than the em5iii. Visually they are almost identical, but internally the OM5 is in fact more a em1iii. The problem here is the price strategy. They are selling the OM5 for the same price as the em1x and em1iii. All of these Cameras have a similar iQ, but with different Bodies. The bigger ones are better in almost everything else. But I agree with you. No need to upgrade if you have the em5iii. The OM 5 makes sense only for those looking for the smallest weather sealed possible set.
@@TITAOSTEIN indeed it packs more of the features of it’s bigger brother now. But I also have the OM-1 and love handling it, so I can see why most photographers might want to get the bigger gun, especially when priced the same 😁
Both are very good cameras. However, without a new sensor in the OM-5, the EM-1 mk3 seems like a better option, with dual card slots, usb-c, external charger, 4 custom functions on mode dial, larger battery (more shots), higher burst rate, higher EVF magnification, more ergonomic grip, ... and it's heavily discounted now, so the price difference is not so big. Having said that, I find the retro-look chrome exterior of the OM-5 very attractive.
That is one thing about the om-5 and e-m5 iii, for us 4 eyed people that really long eye point makes a difference. I’ve been liking my om-5, really is a mini e-m1 iii which I think is great. Perfect travel and hiking camera to complement a larger body when you don’t want to carry it. Now just have to wait for dxo to support it 🙁. Until then stuck with Olympus workspace as my raw editor as I use dxo pl6 usually
Thanks Peter and as you noted, no surprise. A less expensive camera (albeit with very similar specs) comes out just slightly lower. I would have likely had it even closer; more points for portability to the OM5 and a tie on IBIS (simply as the real world test reflects that). For general use the scores are quite fair IMO and in the end, depends on your specific needs. Would have loved some direct photo and video side by sides too, but suspect no difference; at least on RUclips.
Good video thanks. One suggestion would be to also do a round for autofocus and computational features like hand held high res etc. Perhaps both cameras are exactly the same in regards to both, or does the EM1 iii have an advantage?? The USBC missing from the OM5 is strange and worth a mention too. Thanks again.
Thanks for the video. I own an OM-5 and I just love it. I bought it because it is so light and compact. I use Lumix G85 as livestream camera in my work, but bought the OM-5 as Panasonic seem to be focused on video. The OM-5 is my photographic camera and it is great for the hobbyist. Absolutely beautiful images. 😍
The time came to have dual card for amateurs. It is not nice to go for family tour, and return with no photos. Even uhs1 and JPG backup only can be enough.
I have E-M1 and skipped newer models. I just got the E-M1 Mark iii - I find the Mark iii is heavier and bigger, enough to notice it. I wish the Menu button is on the right - when it is on the left, it allows for more one handed operation
Right now the E-M1 Mark III is $1,399 in the US. I am torn between the two. I have a bunch of batteries for the OM-5 but I would have to spend an additional $120 on batteries for the E-M1 Mark III which makes it $320 more than just getting the OM-5 and once the OM-5 goes on sale next year it will be $520 difference. Money that could put towards another lens I'd like to get, the 100-400. The thing that does appeal to me is the dual card slots and if I was going back into the Pro photography, it would be not a second thought. I have plenty pro glass to do so also. As you mentioned, the joystick and more customizable dial options could really help my work flow. So in a lot of ways, it is worth the price difference.
if your are planning for bigger lenses, go for Em1 Mk 3. M-5 is beautiful but M1 is so confortable to hold. I use 12-100 f4 and its kinda glued. Recently added Sigma 30 f 1.4 and very pleased.
@@bkaustav Yeah, grip is a consideration too. I can understand why you like the 12-100 that much. I got the rare opportunity to try it out when it first came out. Nice lens! I too have the 30mm f/1.4 Sigma. It's replaced my Lumix 25mm f/1.7 and I don't see ever needing the Olympus 25mm f/1.2.
Dear Peter. I have OM-D E-M5iii with the flash which comes with it (FL-LM3) and somehow unable to make the flash working with the camera, only in full mode with "AUTO" dial set. Would you please make a short video on how to operate FL-LM3 flash with E-M5iii camera. Thank you!
Peter, I enjoy your videos but did not think this was a fair comparison as you did not include the weight of the cameras, which for me is the deciding factor for travel and outdoor photography. On that criteria the OM 5 is a 10 the the OMD EM1iii a 7, which brings the two cameras closer depending on your use case. I am selling my OMD EM1iii and my OMD EM5iii, upgrading them respectively to the OM-1 and EM-5, which I think is a sweet combo.
I agree that the weight could have been one thing. I prefer OM-5 on my travels because of the weight. That is something I did mention. OM-1 Om-5 combo is a better combo than the older models.
@@papapasa I have, and I have done some really hard core hikes with both an em10 and an em1 mkii... When I started to use pro lenses, the weight advantage was quickly replaced by the accrued comfort, autofocus and better shooting experience I get with the em1 mkii body... In the end it's all a personal preference. In my case the accrued weight of the em-1mkii + glass did not make a difference, the results were better in so many aspects, and I have made some really hardcore hikes with it (toe nail killers)... The om1 autofocus is a must for me, I'm getting one soon, I can't wait to hold it on my hands... There is one situation where I prefer taking my old trusted em10: travelling to less safe places... The em10 looks less expensive than the em1 or the om1... Taking it with a standard non pro zoom is a safer option... The same with some street photography scenarios...
I’m about to sell an EM1 mk2 and a EM5 mk3 to get an OM5. I already have an OM1 and a EM1 Mk3. My reasoning, since I seem to be going against the grain, is that the OM5 is most of the EM1 Mk3 in a smaller and lighter package. For some this may not be enough difference but for me it’s all the difference and specifically the difference between taking the camera with me “just in case” or not. I love the EM5 Mk3 and expect the OM5 to be even better. For general use, the OM5 is pocketable in a Barbour or a covert coat, I don’t need ND filters to get some blur, 50mp handheld makes it equal to my Leicas and it can focus on stars, has unlimited video recording and works as a streaming camera too. Perfect for me and ultimately better for my needs than the heavier and larger EM1 Mk3. I use both the standard and the Pro lenses. The Pros are sharper, more robust and have more features, but the standard lenses are lighter, smaller and perfectly good. Better in fact than they have any right to be. I’ve had photos published in calendars using both. The larger bodies do fit a bit better with the Pro lenses and the 5s and 10s with the standard lenses. I’ve had few problems taking action shots at Goodwood or Brooklands or airshows with the EM5 Mk3 and expect the OM5 to be as good.
Good comparison! Am I a tourist or a Pro? You pose an important challenge to the audience! I’m leaning toward OM-5 now, given the portability and it’s updated features. What are your thoughts regarding OM System firmware updates for their new cameras versus EM1 series?
they actually have the same truepic9 processor so it's a mystery why 4K specs are so different. Em1-3 is basically held back on that. I wonder if it can be fixed by upgrades to its OS and whether users should demand it from OM-S.
Yes, E-M1 Mark III should be able to match OM-5 video specs. Not sure about OMDS strategy what it comes to firmware updates. Olympus had a pretty good track record on giving us new features to older models.
I would take the OM-5 over the E-M1 Mark II. OM-5 is slight smaller and the grip is not as good, but other than that it is a better camera in my opinion. I got the extra grip (ECG-5) for my OM-5.
Hi Peter, i'm interested in your thoughts. I have a hard time deciding between these two cameras. My usecase would be a camera for taking with me every day (17mm 1.8) and on vacation (12-100mm f4) and hikes. Therefore the OM-5 would be nice. But in the past I got so used to the amount of buttons and the joystick on the Panasonic G9, that I'm worried switching settings on the OM-5 could be too much of a hassle. But is the EM1 really significantly smaller than the G9 and would it fit in a crossbody bag together with the 17mm 1.8? If I maybe go on a safari and lend a telephoto lens the EM1 might be better. So is it the perfect size inbetween G9 and OM-5 with good button-layout or is it too big for everyday? Which would you choose, if you only have one? Thank you very much in advance.
Size is subjective indeed. OM-5 is bigger and much more comfortable to hold that my now sold Pen Mini 2. In a camera shop I held a GH6 I think. Too big. So I don’t think I’d like the EM1 although shop queried why I didn’t just buy that used. Shop did have an OM10 and that felt lovely in hand. But I’m not sure the OM-5 is substantially worse, the grip has a little lip a the top that adds a lot of grip.
Since March when I traded in my E-M1X for the OM-1 I didn't use my E-M1 MkIII. So I traded in my E-M1 MkIII for the OM-5. Now the OM-5 is getting used as my travel and family camera. I partner it with my 12-45/4.0, 20/1.4, 12/2.0 and 45/1.8. It makes for a very compact kit when out with family. I do wish the menu button was in the upper left corner, and an AF joystick is where the menu button is now. The Face Detection is slightly improved in the OM-5. There is a menu setting to prioritize the AF area to Face Detection. This works good for selecting a face in a group of faces.
I totally agree with your analysis and summary. The OM-5 is the camera if you value compact size. The E-M1 MkIII is a better general camera.
Thanks for your many videos. They've help me a lot. I have the OM-5 and love it. Paired with the 20mm pro lens is great. Your tips on settings, ETTR, and bracketing, to include focus bracketing and stacking are terrific.
Great as always.
Thanks.
Just got a E-M1 mark 3 for 500 pounds with less than 5k shutter. Already had a 12-40 pro, its a great upgrade from my E-M10.
Good deal! Yes it is a nice upgrade!
the EM 10 is their entry level camera
Can you please compare image quality between om5 and em5 mark iii?
I will have some of that in my video next Friday. Spoiler alert: There is no difference.
@@ForsgardPeter as expected 😔
OM is selling the em1x and em1iii, here in Germany, new, for 1299€. The exactly same price as they are asking for the OM-5. Difficult to understand the OM price strategy… In my opinion, the OM-5 should cost about 999€.
I think this is just because they are OLD cameras by now, EOL, while OM-5 is still deemed „new“. If you can live without the added computational stuff and want something like the OM-5, just get an EM-5 Mark III, it is basically the same camera, and is dead cheap now, especially when bought used. I own one and don’t plan to get the OM-5. OM-5 is just an EM-5 Mark III v2 in the old naming scheme, unfortunately…
@@sourcebased the OM5 is much better than the em5iii. Visually they are almost identical, but internally the OM5 is in fact more a em1iii. The problem here is the price strategy. They are selling the OM5 for the same price as the em1x and em1iii. All of these Cameras have a similar iQ, but with different Bodies. The bigger ones are better in almost everything else. But I agree with you. No need to upgrade if you have the em5iii. The OM 5 makes sense only for those looking for the smallest weather sealed possible set.
@@TITAOSTEIN indeed it packs more of the features of it’s bigger brother now. But I also have the OM-1 and love handling it, so I can see why most photographers might want to get the bigger gun, especially when priced the same 😁
Both are very good cameras.
However, without a new sensor in the OM-5,
the EM-1 mk3 seems like a better option, with dual card slots, usb-c, external charger, 4 custom functions on mode dial, larger battery (more shots), higher burst rate, higher EVF magnification, more ergonomic grip, ...
and it's heavily discounted now, so the price difference is not so big.
Having said that, I find the retro-look chrome exterior of the OM-5 very attractive.
Both OM-5 and OM-1 are too expensive for now, so I chose EM1X
Great review! Thank you very much
Glad you enjoyed it!
The em1 got USB c and in my very unscientific opinion the Grip of the EM1 is comfortable af. Easy win for me personally.
That is one thing about the om-5 and e-m5 iii, for us 4 eyed people that really long eye point makes a difference. I’ve been liking my om-5, really is a mini e-m1 iii which I think is great. Perfect travel and hiking camera to complement a larger body when you don’t want to carry it. Now just have to wait for dxo to support it 🙁. Until then stuck with Olympus workspace as my raw editor as I use dxo pl6 usually
The major reason to buy OM-5 is the Wireless Bluetooth Remote
Awesome. Matched my expectations. Thanks for confirming. Top presentation.
Thanks Peter and as you noted, no surprise. A less expensive camera (albeit with very similar specs) comes out just slightly lower. I would have likely had it even closer; more points for portability to the OM5 and a tie on IBIS (simply as the real world test reflects that). For general use the scores are quite fair IMO and in the end, depends on your specific needs. Would have loved some direct photo and video side by sides too, but suspect no difference; at least on RUclips.
Thanks for the video Peter. Can you tell me if the OM5 tripod mount has been reinforced?
According to OMDS it has been.
Good video thanks. One suggestion would be to also do a round for autofocus and computational features like hand held high res etc. Perhaps both cameras are exactly the same in regards to both, or does the EM1 iii have an advantage?? The USBC missing from the OM5 is strange and worth a mention too. Thanks again.
Thank you! I'm undecided between the two.
I just bought another EM1MKIII for £700 with less than 500 shutter actuations
That is a good deal!
Both are essentially the same camera in two form factors. Just a question of what you prefer and what lenses are you trying to balance on it.
Thanks for the video. I own an OM-5 and I just love it. I bought it because it is so light and compact. I use Lumix G85 as livestream camera in my work, but bought the OM-5 as Panasonic seem to be focused on video. The OM-5 is my photographic camera and it is great for the hobbyist. Absolutely beautiful images. 😍
Thanks for sharing, I totally agree with you about the OM-5.
The time came to have dual card for amateurs. It is not nice to go for family tour, and return with no photos. Even uhs1 and JPG backup only can be enough.
I have E-M1 and skipped newer models. I just got the E-M1 Mark iii - I find the Mark iii is heavier and bigger, enough to notice it. I wish the Menu button is on the right - when it is on the left, it allows for more one handed operation
Right now the E-M1 Mark III is $1,399 in the US. I am torn between the two. I have a bunch of batteries for the OM-5 but I would have to spend an additional $120 on batteries for the E-M1 Mark III which makes it $320 more than just getting the OM-5 and once the OM-5 goes on sale next year it will be $520 difference. Money that could put towards another lens I'd like to get, the 100-400.
The thing that does appeal to me is the dual card slots and if I was going back into the Pro photography, it would be not a second thought. I have plenty pro glass to do so also. As you mentioned, the joystick and more customizable dial options could really help my work flow. So in a lot of ways, it is worth the price difference.
if your are planning for bigger lenses, go for Em1 Mk 3. M-5 is beautiful but M1 is so confortable to hold. I use 12-100 f4 and its kinda glued. Recently added Sigma 30 f 1.4 and very pleased.
@@bkaustav Yeah, grip is a consideration too. I can understand why you like the 12-100 that much. I got the rare opportunity to try it out when it first came out. Nice lens! I too have the 30mm f/1.4 Sigma. It's replaced my Lumix 25mm f/1.7 and I don't see ever needing the Olympus 25mm f/1.2.
I wish OM would put vertical video on the E-M5. How does autofocus compare between the two?
The AF is about the same. No real difference.
Can om5 support 4/3 DSLR lens?
With an adapter, yes.
New Em1mkiii is the same price now as an om-5. The om-5 definitely has a better name!!
Dear Peter. I have OM-D E-M5iii with the flash which comes with it (FL-LM3) and somehow unable to make the flash working with the camera, only in full mode with "AUTO" dial set. Would you please make a short video on how to operate FL-LM3 flash with E-M5iii camera. Thank you!
I might do that next spring.
Peter, I enjoy your videos but did not think this was a fair comparison as you did not include the weight of the cameras, which for me is the deciding factor for travel and outdoor photography. On that criteria the OM 5 is a 10 the the OMD EM1iii a 7, which brings the two cameras closer depending on your use case. I am selling my OMD EM1iii and my OMD EM5iii, upgrading them respectively to the OM-1 and EM-5, which I think is a sweet combo.
I agree that the weight could have been one thing. I prefer OM-5 on my travels because of the weight. That is something I did mention. OM-1 Om-5 combo is a better combo than the older models.
Is a 140g difference significant for you? Your home+car keys probably weight the same or more...
@@diogoferreira9039 Take the test and you will see that yes. And a lot.
@@papapasa I have, and I have done some really hard core hikes with both an em10 and an em1 mkii... When I started to use pro lenses, the weight advantage was quickly replaced by the accrued comfort, autofocus and better shooting experience I get with the em1 mkii body... In the end it's all a personal preference. In my case the accrued weight of the em-1mkii + glass did not make a difference, the results were better in so many aspects, and I have made some really hardcore hikes with it (toe nail killers)... The om1 autofocus is a must for me, I'm getting one soon, I can't wait to hold it on my hands...
There is one situation where I prefer taking my old trusted em10: travelling to less safe places... The em10 looks less expensive than the em1 or the om1... Taking it with a standard non pro zoom is a safer option... The same with some street photography scenarios...
I’m about to sell an EM1 mk2 and a EM5 mk3 to get an OM5. I already have an OM1 and a EM1 Mk3. My reasoning, since I seem to be going against the grain, is that the OM5 is most of the EM1 Mk3 in a smaller and lighter package. For some this may not be enough difference but for me it’s all the difference and specifically the difference between taking the camera with me “just in case” or not. I love the EM5 Mk3 and expect the OM5 to be even better. For general use, the OM5 is pocketable in a Barbour or a covert coat, I don’t need ND filters to get some blur, 50mp handheld makes it equal to my Leicas and it can focus on stars, has unlimited video recording and works as a streaming camera too. Perfect for me and ultimately better for my needs than the heavier and larger EM1 Mk3. I use both the standard and the Pro lenses. The Pros are sharper, more robust and have more features, but the standard lenses are lighter, smaller and perfectly good. Better in fact than they have any right to be. I’ve had photos published in calendars using both. The larger bodies do fit a bit better with the Pro lenses and the 5s and 10s with the standard lenses. I’ve had few problems taking action shots at Goodwood or Brooklands or airshows with the EM5 Mk3 and expect the OM5 to be as good.
Good comparison! Am I a tourist or a Pro? You pose an important challenge to the audience! I’m leaning toward OM-5 now, given the portability and it’s updated features. What are your thoughts regarding OM System firmware updates for their new cameras versus EM1 series?
It is hard to say how OMDS will continue withe the firmware updates. I hope they do.
for similar price and features, i will pick em1mk3 for metallic body
they actually have the same truepic9 processor so it's a mystery why 4K specs are so different. Em1-3 is basically held back on that. I wonder if it can be fixed by upgrades to its OS and whether users should demand it from OM-S.
Yes, E-M1 Mark III should be able to match OM-5 video specs. Not sure about OMDS strategy what it comes to firmware updates. Olympus had a pretty good track record on giving us new features to older models.
Yes I also wonder if OMDS will bother with updates to the Olympus line or just concentrate on the newer OM stuff. Hmmmm 🤔
Peter, do you feel OM-5 is a good enough camera to upgrade from E-M1 Mark II, for everyday casual non professional or semi-professional use?
I would take the OM-5 over the E-M1 Mark II. OM-5 is slight smaller and the grip is not as good, but other than that it is a better camera in my opinion. I got the extra grip (ECG-5) for my OM-5.
@@ForsgardPeterif I buy. Which one should I buy. Should I get the used em1 mark ii
hi can new om5 instantly switch from photo mode to movie mode using function leaver mode ?
Yes it can.
@@ForsgardPeter thank you for your help. I have one more question that does olympus omd 5 mark 3 has the same feature ?
Good timing for this video. I was just thinking maybe buying om5. Though this video didn't help me😃
Sorry... Both arew good solutions. It depends on the usage and lens selection.
@@ForsgardPeter Yes I know. Both cameras are surely good enough.
Hi Peter, i'm interested in your thoughts. I have a hard time deciding between these two cameras. My usecase would be a camera for taking with me every day (17mm 1.8) and on vacation (12-100mm f4) and hikes. Therefore the OM-5 would be nice. But in the past I got so used to the amount of buttons and the joystick on the Panasonic G9, that I'm worried switching settings on the OM-5 could be too much of a hassle. But is the EM1 really significantly smaller than the G9 and would it fit in a crossbody bag together with the 17mm 1.8? If I maybe go on a safari and lend a telephoto lens the EM1 might be better. So is it the perfect size inbetween G9 and OM-5 with good button-layout or is it too big for everyday? Which would you choose, if you only have one?
Thank you very much in advance.
Most likely for the purpose you need the camera, E-M1 Mark III. I use OM-5 as my everyday camera. It is perfect for me for that type of photography.
At 999 EUR I would jump on the E-M1 even if I didn't have the money for it 😂
It seems that it's not going for that price any longer though.
Size is subjective indeed. OM-5 is bigger and much more comfortable to hold that my now sold Pen Mini 2. In a camera shop I held a GH6 I think. Too big. So I don’t think I’d like the EM1 although shop queried why I didn’t just buy that used. Shop did have an OM10 and that felt lovely in hand. But I’m not sure the OM-5 is substantially worse, the grip has a little lip a the top that adds a lot of grip.
Great 👍🏻
E-M1 MKIII is the way to go, OM-5 is not even a consideration.