Canon M5 vs Olympus E-M1

In this article, we are reviewing the Canon M5 and Olympus E-M1, one being a Advanced Mirrorless and the other is a Pro Mirrorless by brands Canon and Olympus. There is a huge difference among the resolutions of the M5 (24MP) and E-M1 (16MP) and the M5 (APS-C) and E-M1 (Four Thirds) come with different sensor dimensions.

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The M5 was launched 2 years later than the E-M1 and that is a fairly significant gap as far as camera tech is concerned. Each of these cameras offer the identical body type (SLR-style mirrorless).

Before we go straight into a comprehensive comparison, below is a simple highlight of how the M5 grades versus the E-M1 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a sample of the gallery pictures for Canon EOS M5 and Olympus OM-D E-M1. The complete galleries are available at Canon M5 Gallery and Olympus E-M1 Gallery.

If you are intending to carry your camera often, you are going to need to factor its weight and dimensions. The Canon M5 enjoys physical measurements of 116mm x 89mm x 61mm (4.6" x 3.5" x 2.4") with a weight of 427 grams (0.94 lbs) and the Olympus E-M1 has dimensions of 130mm x 94mm x 63mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.5") along with a weight of 497 grams (1.10 lbs).

Check the Canon M5 and Olympus E-M1 in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are working with at the time. Below is the front view over all size comparison of the M5 and the E-M1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability rating of the M5 and E-M1 is 77 and 71 respectively.

Oftentimes, it is difficult to imagine the difference in sensor sizing simply by viewing a spec sheet. The visual below should provide you a clearer sense of the sensor sizing in the M5 and E-M1.

As you can see, both of those cameras enjoy different resolutions and different sensor sizing. The M5 because of its larger sensor is going to make shooting shallow DOF less difficult and the Canon M5 will result in greater detail utilizing its extra 8MP. Greater resolution will also enable you to crop images far more aggressively. The more modern M5 provides an advantage when it comes to sensor tech.