OM-1 vs OM-5: Overview

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Article: description: In the OM-1 vs OM-5 debate, which camera comes out on top? Though they’re different cameras for different purposes, comparing them head to head clarifies which is best for your needs.
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Many of you might be familiar with the brand Olympus, but what about OM System? Well, you might be surprised to learn that they are now one and the same! The two companies merged in 2021, and since then, all of their interchangeable lens mirrorless cameras have fallen under the OM System label. The first two cameras they’ve launched since then are the OM-1 and OM-5.  

In this OM-1 vs OM-5 camera review, we’ll share a basic overview of the two cameras before comparing and contrasting their photo and video capabilities. After that, we’ll recommend our favorite compatible micro four thirds lenses. Moreover, thanks to innovative online platforms like MPB, buying a used mirrorless camera has never been cheaper and easier.

Who is MPB? It is a trustworthy and reliable online platform selling pre-owned photography and videography gear at affordable prices. Better yet, every one of its cameras and lenses is hand-inspected by expert product specialists with years of experience and backed by a six-month warranty, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free.

We highly encourage you to visit MPB because of its state-of-the-art online marketplace. It’s a remarkable tool that has helped us save thousands of dollars buying, selling, and trading in high-quality photography equipment over the years, and we believe it can help you do the same. Now, let’s jump in and explore everything there is to know about the OM-1 vs OM-5!

Check out the video above on the MPB YouTube Channel to discover which Olympus/OM System camera is right for you.

Table of Contents

OM-1 vs OM-5: Overview

OM System OM-1  

The OM System OM-1 and OM System OM-5 both debuted in 2022. The OM-5 is a versatile mid-range camera designed for everyone, from people who have never picked up a camera to semi-professionals. On the other hand, the OM-1 is a high-end camera aimed more toward professional content creators (photo and video). 

Although both cameras feature 20-megapixel MFT sensors, the two sensors are totally different outside of resolution. For example, the OM-5 has one Live MOS CMOS sensor, while the OM-1 boasts a stacked BSI Live MOS sensor. Additionally, the OM-5 uses a TruePix IX image processor, while the OM-1 has an upgraded TruePic X Dual Quad Core Processor.

OM System OM-5

Design-wise, the OM-1 is like the beefed-up big brother who hit the gym all summer. Some pros and cons come with that. One advantage is that it has more customizable buttons and dials, which can boost productivity. Another benefit is that the OM-1 holds a larger battery, providing significantly better life. 

However, a disadvantage is that it’s noticeably bigger and heavier than the OM-5. With that in mind, the OM-5 is popular for travel photography and vlogging. Here’s a head-to-head comparison of the OM-1 vs OM-5 specs and key features to see how they stack up.

OM-1 vs OM-5: Imaging Performance

OM System OM-1 

As micro four thirds (MFT) cameras, the OM System OM-1 and OM System OM-5 have smaller sensors than their APS-C and full-frame competitors. Don’t let that scare you away, though. The truth is that photos taken with both of these cameras have excellent image quality, detail retention, and colors.

One of the first things people look at when deciding on a new camera, and one of the keys to consistently capturing sharp, in-focus images, is autofocus. Both cameras have solid autofocus, but only one is worth bragging about—the OM-1. It has over eight times the number of focus points and markedly better subject recognition and tracking than the OM-5. 

OM System OM-5 

Other differences include max burst shooting speed and low-light performance. The OM-5 has a better-than-average 30 fps max continuous shooting speed, but the OM-1 boasts an out-of-this-world 120 fps continuous shooting. When working in low-light situations, the stacked sensor and wider ISO range of the OM-1 yield sharper images with less noise. 

One cool feature the two cameras share is their high-res shooting modes. They can both capture 50MP handheld stills and 80MP stills when the cameras are on a tripod. These modes are perfect for creating impressive images of landscapes and cityscapes.

Which is the best camera for photos? The OM System OM-1

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OM-1 vs OM-5: Video Performance

 

OM System OM-1  

The OM System OM-1 and OM System OM-5 are hybrid mirrorless cameras. This means that, unlike many older cameras, they can take photos and record videos, so you don’t have to buy two cameras! Furthermore, both boast 1080p Full HD and 4K video capabilities. 

The OM-1 can film 4K video at 24, 30, and 60 fps, while the highest frame rate of the OM-5 is 30 fps. Are you a fan of slow motion? If you are, we have good news for you! And if you aren’t…well, you should be! The OM-5 records 1080p/120p slow-motion videos and the OM-1 1080p/240p super-slow-motion movies. 

OM System OM-5

Two other differences are that the OM-1 offers 10-bit video compared to 8-bit video on the OM-1 and that the OM-1 has uncropped 4K video while the OM-5 applies a 1.19x crop factor to footage. The crop factor isn’t huge, but it does make capturing wide-angle video slightly harder. 

Conversely, mutual video similarities include in-camera image stabilization and fully articulating rear screens. Stabilization adds up to eight stops of exposure on the OM-1 and 7.5 stops on the OM-5, making it easier to film handheld video. At the same time, the cameras articulating screens make them popular choices for YouTubers and social media influencers.  

Which is the best camera for video? The OM System OM-1

Recommended Olympus Lenses

 

OM System OM-1 with 12-40mm f/2.8 lens 

Here are some of the best micro four thirds lenses for photo and video to pair with the Olympus OM-1 or OM System OM-5. 

Final Thoughts on the OM-1 vs OM-5

A group of friends with the OM System OM-5 

The OM System OM-1 is clearly the more advanced camera, but that doesn’t mean it’s better than the OM System OM-5 for everyone. Actually, the target market for these two cameras is completely different. 

Beginners, people on a budget, and photographers prioritizing portability will prefer the OM-5. Alternatively, professionals, video-oriented shooters, and photographers who often shoot in low-light conditions will see better results with the flagship OM-1.

As wonderful as these two cameras are, we understand if you don’t feel either is quite the right fit for you. That said, see the links below to compare the OM-1 and OM-5 with other popular Olympus/OM System cameras currently available at MPB. 

Disclaimer: Just so you know, some of the cool stuff we mention comes with affiliate links, meaning we earn a commission if you buy (no extra charge to you!). Plus, we occasionally feature sponsored content, but rest assured, we only shout out products we genuinely stand behind.

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