Olympus E-M1 Review

E-M1 Summary

The Olympus E-M1 builds upon the legacy of the outstanding OM-D E-M5, adding not only a ton of features geared for pros and advanced enthusiasts, but also an on-chip, phase-detect autofocusing system that delivers the responsiveness that Olympus Four Thirds DSLR owners have long been waiting for. The E-M1 offers a solid, weatherproof build, an outstanding electronic viewfinder, tons of physical controls -- which can be customized in countless permutations -- and an advanced Wi-Fi system for image sharing and remote control shooting. Most importantly, the camera delivers excellent image quality for its class, even at high ISOs, as well as blazing performance that rivals top DSLRs. The Olympus E-M1 might seem expensive for a Micro Four Thirds model, and perhaps even overkill for many shooters, but for the right photographer, this high-performing, pro-level camera is well worth the price.

Exceptional rugged, weather-proof, professional build; Lightning fast contrast-detect AF, and phase-detect AF that makes Four Thirds lenses far more responsive; Tons of useful physical controls with immense customizability; Arguably the best image quality of any Micro Four Thirds camera we've tested to date; Large, sharp, high-resolution electronic viewfinder; Advanced Wi-Fi capabilities, including remote control shooting in PASM exposure modes.

Bigger and heavier than many other compact system cameras; Most expensive Micro Four Thirds camera on the market to date; Menu system and customization options have a steep learning curve; No optical low-pass filter means greater risk of moire; No built-in flash.

The Olympus OM-D E-M1 started shipping in October 2013. Originally available body-only at a retail price of US$1,400, it now lists for US$1,300. From September 2014, a Silver body color has been added alongside the existing black one. Pricing for this variant is identical, and so is functionality, except that it comes with the latest firmware already installed.

4.5 out of 5.0