OM System OM-5
Announced October 26, 2022
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-5 is a compact, weather-sealed mirrorless camera that balances portability with advanced computational features for everyday and travel photography. While it lacks some of the high-end video and autofocus capabilities of its flagship siblings, it remains a highly capable and affordable tool for outdoor enthusiasts.
Weighted from 18 reviewer scores
Pros
- Highly effective in-body image stabilization
- Intuitive controls and ergonomic handling
- Compact, lightweight, and durable IP53 weather-sealed construction
- Advanced computational photography modes like Live ND, Pro Capture, and high-resolution shooting
- Broad selection of compatible lenses
Cons
- Outdated micro-USB charging port instead of USB-C
- Limited autofocus performance compared to competitors
- Single card slot and limited video capabilities
- Uses older menu system and lacks significant hardware upgrades from predecessors
- Lacks a headphone jack for audio monitoring
- Launch price $1,199 (USD)
- Sensor 20.4MP Micro Four Thirds CMOS
- Video 4K 24p
- Stabilization In-body IS, 6.5 stops (CIPA)
- Burst 30 fps electronic 10 fps mechanical
What the Reviewers Say
All 18 expert reviews, weighted into the PixelMeter score.
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- DPReview 83/100
The OM-5's balance between durability, capability, and portability is hard to match anywhere in the photography world. Although it lacks bleeding-edge performance, for the money this model gives beginners a lot of bang for the buck.
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Of course, there are those that think “full-frame” is the be-all and end-all, but for people who value lightweight and travel rather than a sore back at the end of the day, then the OM-5 is worth its weight in gold.
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What I find, all this technology built into this tiny little camera really encourages you to go outside and capture some stuff.
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The second of the new OM series and it does not disappoint. It is somewhat simpler than the flagship OM-1 in some respects, especially in terms of video.
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The OM System OM-5 is a magnificent midrange camera that offers flagship features and all-purpose performance in a compact, affordable package.
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The OM-5 is a creatively powerful, portable and intuitive-to-use camera with the ability to switch lenses for optimal capture of any subject, and one that will neither break your back nor the bank. It’s a very capable everyday, travel or sightseeing companion.
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The OM System OM-5 is a magnificent midrange camera that offers flagship features and all-purpose performance in a compact, affordable package.
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The OM System OM-5 adds some useful computational features to the outgoing Olympus E-M5 Mark III, but it doesn't offer any upgrades to the body that would compel upgrading and doesn't quite justify its price.
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OM System does compact mirrorless camera systems for photography better than anyone, using a micro four thirds sensor that strikes an excellent balance between performance and size, not to mention a huge range of lenses available for all types of photography and budgets.
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Granted, the OM-5 is a stripped back version of the OM-1, but it essentially keeps most of the best bits from its bigger brother and for a fraction of the cost.
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Bottom line: it feels great in the hand and its form factor speaks to its ease of carry.
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If you want a camera body that can fit inside your jacket pocket for outdoor adventures, the OM System OM-5 is a great choice. It's priced well, and it, along with compatible lenses, will not weigh you down as you are out and about.
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Admittedly, the OM system isn't a camera that tries to do everything. The things that it can do, it does well.
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While the OM-1 suits a professional photographer like me, the OM-5 will meet the needs of those for whom photography is an essential but secondary feature of their other activities. It's an advanced, versatile camera, not as complex and feature-packed as the OM-1.
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With such an extensive array of content types this is a brilliant compact hybrid MFT camera for a wide range of subjects and packs plenty of video options too.
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In all honestly, I feel biased. After spending so much time looking for my ideal mirrorless camera you’d think I would have a lot more critical things to say about the OM-5.
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The camera is easy to use and it's highly capable, so it is a fantastic grab-and-go camera for any situation and it's about half the price of that OM-1 Mark II.
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If you’re debating mirrorless vs DSLR through the lenses of technology, budget, and ecosystem support, the OM SYSTEM OM‑5 makes a persuasive case for modern mirrorless.
