Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs OM-D E-M10 Mark II
- Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs OM-D E-M10 Mark II: Specs and Key Features
- Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs OM-D E-M10 Mark II: Imaging Performance
- Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs OM-D E-M10 Mark II: Video Performance
- Final Thoughts on the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs the OM-D E-M10 Mark II
Today, two of the most popular mirrorless cameras on the market are the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II and the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II. And while they have been superseded by newer models (the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III and the OM-D E-M10 Mark III, respectively), they remain powerful cameras in 2022.
One reason they continue to fly off shelves is their incredibly low prices. Since the release of the newer models, the costs of the two cameras have dropped significantly, and now they are two of the best value buys out there.
For even better bargains, I recommend buying a used camera. Not only are there tons of high-quality used cameras out there, but it’s also a great way to save money to spend on additional gear like lenses, tripods, etc.
One place that has tons of used Olympus cameras in stock is MPB. They are a trustworthy and reliable online platform that sells used photo and video kits at unbeatable prices. Furthermore, all of their cameras are carefully hand-inspected by experienced product specialists and backed by warranties, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.
Below, I compare the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II and the OM-D E-M10 Mark II. First, I’ll cover their key features, and then we’ll look at their image and video performance. Now, without further ado, let’s dive in and check out these two amazing cameras!
Table of Contents
Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs OM-D E-M10 Mark II: Specs and Key Features
OM-D E-M1 Mark II
For starters, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II (shown above) was released in 2016, while the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II came out one year earlier, in 2015.
Both cameras feature high-resolution Four Thirds sensors, with the OM-D E-M1 Mark II having a slightly higher megapixel count (20MP vs 16MP). Additionally, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has an upgraded TruePic VIII image processor, making it faster and giving it more substantial video capabilities.
One area where the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II has the upper hand is size and portability. It measures 120 x 80 x 47 mm, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II is a more robust 134 x 91 x 67 mm. At least part of this can be attributed to the fact that the OM-D E-M1 Mark II is weather-sealed, whereas the more compact OM-D E-M10 Mark II is not.
Here’s a more in-depth look at the key specs and features of the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II.
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Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs OM-D E-M10 Mark II: Imaging Performance
OM-D E-M10 Mark II
Both cameras consistently deliver detailed still images with excellent edge-to-edge sharpness thanks to their high-resolution sensors. Moreover, they have identical ISO ranges of 200 - 25,600. While low-light performance can’t compare to full-frame cameras, images remain relatively noise-free through ISO 6400.
Also, both cameras boast 5-Axis in-body image stabilization technology that Olympus claims adds up to 5.5 stops of exposure. This is particularly useful for photographers who like to shoot macro and wildlife photography.
Two areas where the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II tops the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II (shown above) are autofocus and continuous shooting. The OM-D E-M1 Mark II uses a hybrid AF system featuring 121 phase-detection points and 121 contrast-detection points. On the other hand, the OM-D E-M10 Mark II AF system only uses contrast-detection points, employing 81 of them.
In terms of continuous shooting, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II is no slouch (8.5 fps), but the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has one of the fastest drives of any camera on the planet. Using its electronic shutter, it has a ridiculous 60 fps max burst rate, making it a terrific choice for sport and action photography.
Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs OM-D E-M10 Mark II: Video Performance
OM-D E-M1 Mark II
The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II (shown above) is a far superior video camera for serious videographers, filmmakers, YouTubers, and vloggers. It captures UHD and DCI 4K video at speeds of up to 30 frames per second and 1080p Full HD at 60 fps.
The video quality of the 4K footage is excellent, no additional crop factor is applied, and rolling shutter issues are non-existent. Colors are bold and vibrant and need little or no correction in post-production. On top of that, it can output uncompressed 4:2:2 video using an HDMI.
Alternatively, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II has a max video resolution of 1080p Full HD. Although 4K video would have been nice, the 1080p video quality is sharp and more than enough for non-professionals. Other cool video features of the OM-D E-M10 Mark II are a dedicated slow-motion mode and the option to record shareable clips of different lengths (1, 2, 4, and 8 seconds).
Thanks to image stabilization, camera shake is reduced, and handheld shooting with both cameras is possible. One final thing I wanted to highlight is the rear LCD screens. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has a fully articulating screen, while the OM-D E-M10 Mark II has a tilting screen. Vloggers and Youtubers especially will benefit immensely from the ability to see themselves on the articulating screen of the OM-D E-M1 Mark II.
Final Thoughts on the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II vs the OM-D E-M10 Mark II
Without a doubt, both of these fantastic cameras have a place in 2022. No matter which one you go with, you really can’t go wrong! With that said, here are my final recommendations.
Courtesy of its higher resolution and better video capabilities, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II is the better choice for advanced and professional photographers. On the other hand, beginner photographers will love the cheaper, more compact, and easy-to-use Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II (shown above).
Finally, don’t forget to check out MPB.com if you want to find killer Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II used deals and Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II used deals!