The OM System OM-5 is a mid-range mirrorless camera that has been gaining attention in the photography world. It is a Micro Four Thirds camera that is mainly for stills, but has a decent set of video features as well. The camera is a rehash of the older OM-D E-M5 Mark III, but its processing has been boosted to unlock computational photography features previously reserved for more expensive cameras.
The OM System OM-5 has a lot to offer for both beginners and more advanced photographers. Its autofocus system is even more advanced than the E-M5 III, making it a great option for those who want to capture fast-moving subjects. The external controls have a quality feel, and a logic that’s very endearing. Although it lacks bleeding-edge performance, for the money this model gives beginners a lot of bang for the buck.
Those who are interested in the OM System OM-5 should take a look at its in-depth review. The review covers the camera’s performance, design, features, and more. It also provides sample images to give readers an idea of the camera’s capabilities. Whether you are a beginner or an advanced photographer, the OM System OM-5 is definitely worth considering.
Design and Handling
The OM System OM-5 is a camera
that is designed to be compact and lightweight, making it easy to carry around and handle. It features a sleek, modern design that is both stylish and functional. The camera is built around the Micro Four Thirds system, which means that it is compatible with a wide range of lenses and accessories.
Size and Weight
One of the standout features of the OM-5 is its compact size and lightweight design. It measures 125.3 x 85.2 x 49.7 mm and weighs just 414g, making it one of the most portable cameras in its class. Despite its small size, the camera feels solid and well-built, with a comfortable grip that makes it easy to hold and shoot with.
Ports and Connectivity
The OM-5 features a range of ports and connectivity options, including a USB Type-C port, a micro HDMI port, and a microphone jack. It also has built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, which allows for easy transfer of images and remote control of the camera using a smartphone or tablet.
Menu and Mode Dial
The OM-5 has a straightforward menu system that is easy to navigate, even for beginners. The camera also features a mode dial that allows users to quickly switch between different shooting modes, including manual, aperture priority, shutter priority, and program mode. The touchscreen display makes it easy to adjust settings and navigate menus, and it can be tilted for added flexibility.
Sensor and Image Quality
The OM System OM-5 features a 20.4MP Live MOS sensor and TruePic IX processor, which provide excellent image quality and fast performance. The camera has a Micro Four Thirds lens mount, which offers a wide range of compatible lenses for the user to choose from. The sensor and processor combination enables the camera to deliver sharp and detailed images with accurate colors and good dynamic range.
Sensor and ISO
The OM-5’s sensor has a native ISO range of 200-25,600, which can be expanded to 64-25,600. The camera produces clean and usable images up to ISO 6400, while images at higher ISOs show some noise but are still usable. The camera’s noise reduction system does a good job of keeping noise under control without sacrificing too much detail.
Autofocus System
The OM-5 features a reliable and fast autofocus system with 121 AF points, which covers most of the frame. The camera also has advanced features like face and eye detection, which make it easier to capture sharp portraits. The camera’s Starry Sky AF mode is also worth mentioning, as it allows for easy focusing on stars and other celestial objects.
Image Quality and OM-Log400
The OM-5 produces high-quality images with good detail and color reproduction. The camera’s OM-Log400 profile enables users to capture more dynamic range in their images, making it easier to recover details in the shadows and highlights during post-processing. The camera also has a range of Art Filters that can be applied to images in-camera, providing users with creative options.
Burst and Computational Features
The OM-5 has impressive burst shooting capabilities, with a maximum frame rate of 15 fps with the mechanical shutter and 30 fps with the electronic shutter. The camera also has a Pro Capture mode, which buffers images before the shutter is fully pressed, allowing users to capture the perfect moment. The camera’s computational features like Live Composite, Live ND, and Handheld High-Res Shot are also worth mentioning, as they provide users with unique shooting options.
Viewfinder and Video
The OM System OM-5 comes equipped with an electronic viewfinder (EVF) that has a 0.68x magnification and a 2.6-million-dot resolution. While this may not be the most advanced EVF on the market, it is still a solid performer that provides a clear and contrasty view of the scene. The EVF also refreshes quickly, making it easy to track moving subjects.
Electronic Viewfinder
The OM-5’s EVF is a carryover from previous OM-D models, but it still holds up well against newer models. The OLED panel provides a bright and clear view of the scene, with good color accuracy and contrast. The viewfinder also has a built-in eye sensor that automatically switches between the EVF and the rear LCD screen when you bring the camera up to your eye.
One downside of the OM-5’s EVF is that it is not as large or immersive as some of the competition. However, this is a tradeoff for the camera’s compact size and portability, and the EVF is still more than adequate for most shooting situations.
Video
The OM-5 is capable of shooting 4K video at up to 30 frames per second, as well as C4K video at 24 frames per second and 1080p video at up to 120 frames per second. The camera also features a 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system that provides up to 6.5 stops of stabilization, or up to 7.5 stops when paired with compatible Sync-IS lenses.
One downside of the OM-5’s video capabilities is that it lacks some of the advanced video features found on other cameras, such as log profiles or high-bitrate recording options. However, for most casual videographers, the OM-5’s video quality and stabilization should be more than sufficient.
Another drawback of the OM-5’s video capabilities is that it uses an electronic shutter for video recording, which can result in rolling shutter artifacts when panning or shooting fast-moving subjects. However, this is a common issue with electronic shutters and is not unique to the OM-5.
Finally, it is worth noting that the OM-5 is rated IP53 for dust and water resistance, which means it can withstand some exposure to dust and light rain but is not fully waterproof or dustproof. As always, it is important to take care when using any camera in adverse weather conditions.
Performance and Battery Life
The OM System OM-5 is a high-performance camera that delivers excellent results, thanks to its advanced features and robust build. The camera is equipped with a 20.4MP Live MOS sensor and a TruePic IX processor, which together provide outstanding image quality and fast processing speeds. The OM-5 is also equipped with a Micro Four Thirds mount, which allows it to use a wide range of lenses, including smaller and mid-sized Micro Four Thirds lenses.
Stabilization and Live Composite
One of the standout features of the OM-5 is its 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system, which provides up to 6.5 stops of stabilization. This makes it possible to shoot handheld in low light conditions and capture sharp images with slower shutter speeds. The OM-5 also features Live Composite mode, which allows you to capture long exposures and see the results in real-time on the camera’s LCD screen. This is a great feature for capturing star trails, fireworks, and other types of long exposures.
Battery Life
The OM-5 is powered by a BLS-50 rechargeable lithium-ion battery, which provides up to 310 shots per charge. This is a decent battery life, but it may not be enough for extended shooting sessions. The OM-5 also features USB charging, which allows you to charge the battery on the go using a power bank or laptop. Additionally, the camera features a power-saving mode, which can help extend battery life by reducing power consumption when the camera is not in use.
Value and Conclusion
The OM System OM-5 is an affordable camera that offers high-quality features and excellent handling. It is a great option for those looking for a compact, weathersealed camera with a large back catalog of portable M. Zuiko lenses. The camera is IP53-rated, making it resistant to dust and water, which is a huge plus for outdoor photographers.
When it comes to value, the OM-5 is a great investment. It offers a lot of features for its price, including a high-resolution sensor, fast autofocus, and a variety of shooting modes. The camera also has a great battery life, which is important for those who shoot for long periods of time.
The OM System OM-5 is a great camera for those who want a high-quality camera without breaking the bank. It is a great option for those who are just starting out in photography or for those who want a reliable camera for everyday use. Overall, the OM-5 is a great camera that offers excellent value for its price.