OM System OM-3
Announced February 6, 2025
PixelMeter The PixelMeter is our 1–100 aggregate of reviewer scores from trusted publications and creators. Weighted by source tier — not a raw average, and not PetaPixel’s own review.
Reviewer Consensus
Strong
The OM System OM-3 is a compact, retro-styled camera that integrates flagship-level computational photography and weather-sealed durability into a portable, metal-bodied design. While it offers a premium, highly tactile shooting experience, its high price point and lack of a dedicated grip or advanced viewfinder resolution may be limiting for some users.
Weighted from 23 reviewer scores
Pros
- Advanced computational photography and creative control features
- Stylish, ergonomic, and tactile design
- Compact, durable, and weather-sealed metal construction
- High-performance autofocus and fast shooting speeds
- Excellent in-body image stabilization
Cons
- Lacks a physical grip, making handling difficult with larger lenses
- High price relative to features and sensor size
- Low-resolution electronic viewfinder
- Absence of an autofocus joystick
- Single memory card slot
- Launch price $1,999.99 (USD)
- Sensor 20.4MP Micro Four Thirds Stacked BSI CMOS
- Video 4K 59.94p
- Stabilization In-body IS, 8 stops (CIPA)
- Burst 120 fps electronic 10 fps mechanical
What the Reviewers Say
All 23 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- PetaPixel 7.5/10
The OM-3 is a beautiful camera that packs a ton of high-end features. It does have some concessions compared to the OM-1 Mark II, but they're fairly minor and aren't areas where those interested in this vintage-styled camera will likely be particularly bothered.
- DPReview 86/100
If you’re willing to give up some light-gathering ability, you’ll get a camera that you can take almost anywhere to do almost anything, all while staying stylish in the process.
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Bottom line, I really enjoyed using the OM-3 and the results it delivered.
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It’s a triumphant return to form from OM System that’s destined to be seen as an outright classic.
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I think we've established already that this camera is gorgeous, it's fun to use, it feels really good and it has some very fun features, but let's talk about some of the performance aspects of it.
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It is great to find a camera that is solid, reliable, weather resistant and handles so well.
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Slotting in as the second tier camera in the OM System range, the new OM-3 takes virtually all of the key specs of the flagship OM-1 Mark II and presents them in a gorgeously designed, immaculately constructed metal retro body [...]
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The OM System OM-3 rekindles the kind of magic not seen since the Olympus glory days. This is a camera that celebrates the brand's heritage in terms of both looks and spirit, proving that style is substance [...]
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If you can live with the Micro Four Thirds sensor that's smaller than full-frame, but which enables a truly compact and lightweight camera / lens system, then the OM-3 should be right at the top of your shopping list.
- Photo Review 8.9/10
The OM-3 camera’s price relative to its sensor size is on the high side, however it has a couple of important factors in its favour that could make some potential buyers choose it over alternative full-frame and APS-C cameras.
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The OM System OM-3 combines popular features of the PEN-F and OM-1 II in a smaller, lighter form factor than the OM-1 II but with the same IP53-rated weather resistance.
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So while the OM-3 is a beautiful camera with excellent performance, solid build and undoubtedly can produce very nice images: it just seems to really miss the mark with regards to design choices and price point.
- SlashGear 9/10
While there are a few gripes with the OM-3, for the most part it's a fantastic camera, and one of the best M4/3 cameras out there.
- Phototrend 8.2/10
The OM‑3 is an extremely attractive camera. OM System has skillfully combined design and performance.
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Despite some of the complaints I have on this OM-3 camera, I don't think any of them are deal breakers. I still think that this OM-3 is a fantastic street photography camera, of course, if the price tag $2,000 does not bother you.
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I really think that they nailed the design, portability, functionality, and most importantly, the durability of this camera into one.
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Blending analog era levers, switches and dials with the cutting-edge digital technology found in the flagship OM System OM-1 II, the latest OM-3 is a best-of-both-worlds option for those seeking contemporary convenience yet plenty of hands-on manual control.
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If you’re looking for a weather-sealed, highly portable system that encourages you to pick it up and start creating, the OM-3 is a compelling addition to the Micro Four Thirds lineup.
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[T]he OM-3 is a robust powerhouse that puts creative control at your fingertips.
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Love it and I highly recommend it.
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If you want a digital camera that looks and feels beautiful in hand or slung on your shoulder, the OM System OM-3 is an under-the-radar gem.
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For the 12 days I experienced shooting with it in Vietnam, I found the camera to be the perfect companion to my journey.
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It's a beautiful retro-style, fun camera to use.
