Hasselblad X1D II 50C vs Olympus PEN E-PL5: A Deep Dive Into Two Worlds of Mirrorless Cameras

In my 15 years of photographing everything from sweeping landscapes to intense sports events and delicate macros, choosing the right camera has always been a mix of knowing your needs, understanding the gear’s capabilities, and honestly assessing the trade-offs. Today, I’m comparing two mirrorless cameras that sit at opposite ends of the spectrum yet each holds a distinct appeal: the Hasselblad X1D II 50C, a medium format marvel aimed at professionals craving the ultimate image quality, and the Olympus PEN E-PL5, a compact and versatile entry-level mirrorless that remains popular with enthusiasts stepping up their game.

Both cameras are rangefinder-style mirrorless bodies, but their philosophies, sensor tech, and target users diverge sharply. Drawing from extensive hands-on testing with both, I’ll walk you through the practical performance, technical details, and real-world shooting experience to help you decide which fits your photographic aspirations.

First Impressions and Ergonomics: Size Matters, But So Does Feel

Before diving into specs, let’s talk about how these cameras feel in your hands. The physical size and ergonomics can often shape your shooting style and comfort on long outings.

At 150 x 98 x 71 mm and 725 grams, the Hasselblad X1D II 50C is notably larger and heavier than Olympus’s compact PEN E-PL5, which measures 111 x 64 x 38 mm and weighs a mere 325 grams. The Hasselblad’s size owes much to its sophisticated medium format sensor and robust build. Despite its larger dimensions, it still feels remarkably refined and balanced, thanks to Hasselblad's attention to handling and high-quality materials, offering a luxurious grip that instills confidence for professional use.

The Olympus PEN E-PL5, by contrast, fits snugly in smaller hands and excels in portability, making it an ideal street, travel, or casual everyday camera. Its lighter body is a blessing during long days of shooting or travel, but I noticed that extended use can occasionally cause finger fatigue due to its shallower grip and plastic construction, although the tilting screen somewhat mitigates awkward shooting angles.

If you prioritize a camera that won’t weigh you down or attract attention, PEN E-PL5 wins here. But if you want solid heft and premium hand-feel that exudes professionalism, the X1D II II’s ergonomics justify the additional size.

Control Layout and Interface: Intuitive Design vs Minimalism

How camera controls are arranged affects your shooting fluidity, especially in spontaneous or professional settings.

The Hasselblad X1D II 50C features a minimalist, clean top-design that can feel sparse initially but reveals carefully placed custom buttons and a jewel-like dial setup optimized for expert photographers who want fewer distractions. The illuminated buttons are missing here, which I found is a minor drawback in dim environments, however, the highly responsive touchscreen counters this by giving quick access to exposure settings and menus.

Olympus’s E-PL5, with its entry-level positioning, offers more direct physical controls, including a front dial and function buttons in easy reach. The tilting touchscreen interface is integrated but limited in responsiveness compared to Hasselblad’s modern implementation. The absence of an electronic viewfinder in the PEN E-PL5 (sold separately) can slow down action shooting or bright-light composition for some users.

Overall, if you prefer tactile, high-precision dials with a premium interface, the X1D II 50C’s approach is more refined. The PEN E-PL5, while more cluttered, remains straightforward for beginners and casual users.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Now we’re getting to the core differences. Sensor technology ultimately defines image quality, dynamic range, and creative potential.

The Hasselblad X1D II 50C houses a large medium format CMOS sensor measuring 44 x 33 mm with an area of 1452 mm², sporting a high resolution of 51 megapixels. This size dwarf’s Micro Four Thirds sensors in the Olympus E-PL5, which is 17.3 x 13 mm (224.9 mm²) with a 16 MP resolution - almost a quarter of the sensor area of the Hasselblad.

In practical terms, the larger medium format sensor delivers significantly better dynamic range (DxO mark score of 14.8 EV vs 12.3), cleaner high ISO performance (ISO 4489 vs 889), and richer color depth (26.2 bits vs 22.8 bits). This translates to extraordinary detail retention in shadows and highlights, producing images with sublime tonal gradations, critical for high-end landscape, portrait, and commercial photography.

The Hasselblad is outfitted with an anti-alias filter, which helps eliminate moiré but can slightly soften ultra-fine details, something I observed when shooting fabrics and detailed textures. The PEN E-PL5’s sensor also has an AA filter but its smaller size naturally limits overall image quality in print-sized results or aggressive cropping.

From my tests, while the Olympus can produce vibrant and pleasing images, especially when paired with high-quality Micro Four Thirds lenses, it cannot match the Hasselblad’s sheer visual fidelity. Medium format remains the gold standard for ultimate image quality.

Viewing Experience: Screen and Viewfinder Nuances

Viewing your composition and results quickly and clearly is indispensable during shoots. Both cameras differ considerably here.

The X1D II 50C features a 3.6" fixed touchscreen with excellent 2360k dot resolution, providing a crisp, bright, and color-accurate display. Combined with its 3690k dot electronic viewfinder offering near-perfect 100% coverage and 0.87x magnification, composing images meticulously is effortless even under harsh lighting.

In contrast, the Olympus PEN E-PL5 has a smaller 3" tilting touchscreen with only 460k dots - relatively low resolution by today's standards, which reduces detail discernibility, especially in sunlight. It lacks a built-in EVF; shooters must buy an optional accessory, which adds bulk and cost. This limits its usability for precision framing, particularly for fast-moving subjects.

For critical work or professional use, the Hasselblad’s superior optical electronics combo is a game-changer, enabling spot-on critical focusing and framing.

Autofocus Performance: Precision vs Speed Tradeoffs

Many photographers I consult stress autofocus as a decisive factor, especially in action or wildlife genres. Here’s how the two cameras compare.

The X1D II 50C employs contrast-detection autofocus with 117 points and advanced tracking modes. It lacks phase-detection sensors but compensates with intelligent algorithms tuned for studio and landscape use that prioritize precision over speed. Continuous shooting is modest at 2.7 fps. I tested it extensively for portraits and static scenes, where it excels in clarity and consistent focus acquisition. However, it’s not designed for sports or rapid wildlife chase scenarios where fast AF is critical.

On the other hand, the Olympus PEN E-PL5 features a 35-point contrast detection AF system with face detection capability and a much faster 8 fps burst rate. While it can track moving subjects better, its focusing precision is less reliable in low light and with fast lenses, occasionally hunting or missing focus. Nonetheless, for casual wildlife, street photography, and family moments, it is sufficiently quick and responsive.

If your work requires pinpoint focus on still subjects and ultimate image quality, the Hasselblad’s AF is precise and thoughtfully purpose-built. For action or run-and-gun shooting, the Olympus is more nimble but less consistent.

Performance Across Photography Genres

To understand practical applications, I tested both cameras across various photography disciplines, revealing strengths and limitations.

Portrait Photography

The X1D II 50C’s medium format sensor excels in rendering natural skin tones and fine detail, producing creamy bokeh thanks to Hasselblad’s high-quality X lenses. Eye detection AF is unfortunately not available, but the large sensor's narrow depth of field allows exquisite subject isolation. I captured studio portraits where the tonality was breathtaking and versatile for retouching. The PEN E-PL5 does face detection but its smaller sensor produces less smooth bokeh and lower resolution portraits. It’s adequate for casual portraits but not professional headshots.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution shine in this category. The Hasselblad’s expansive sensor captures wide tonal ranges from shadows to highlights - ideal for sunrise and sunset landscapes. I took several outdoor shoots amid challenging lighting and benefitted from its environmental sealing to protect gear. With 51 MP output, detailed large prints are stunning. The Olympus overlaps here for casual landscapes but struggles with higher noise and lacks any weather sealing, limiting outdoor reliability.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Here, speed and AF tracking matter most. The PEN E-PL5’s faster 8 fps burst and face detection make it decent for casual bird or pet photography. However, its lack of telephoto zoom-range lenses equivalent to the Hasselblad system or continuous autofocus on moving targets is limiting.

The Hasselblad’s 2.7 fps rate and slower AF make it unsuitable for fast wildlife or sports events, confirming it as a tool for controlled environments rather than action.

Street Photography

Portability and discretion define street shooting. The PEN E-PL5’s small stature and quiet operation make it less intrusive and easier to carry all day. The Hasselblad, while well-balanced, draws more attention and is bulkier.

Macro Photography

Neither camera offers focus stacking or bracketing, but the Olympus benefits from the extensive Micro Four Thirds macro lens lineup and sensor stabilization. The X1D II 50C can deliver higher resolution crops but lacks in-camera stabilization.

Night and Astrophotography

High ISO noise performance strongly favors Hasselblad thanks to its sensor, delivering cleaner long exposures at ISO 1600-3200, critical for star fields and low light cityscapes. The PEN E-PL5’s sensor noise threatens image quality in very dark scenes.

Video Capabilities

Neither camera specializes in video, but the Olympus offers Full HD 1080p at 30fps with basic stabilization, suitable for casual clips. The Hasselblad maxes out at 2720x1530 at 30fps and lacks in-body stabilization, making it a suboptimal choice for filmmakers.

Travel Photography

The Olympus E-PL5’s low weight and compact size makes it a solid travel companion, easy to toss in a bag without fatigue. The Hasselblad’s weight and size discourage hiking or urban travel where nimbleness and subtlety matter.

Professional Workflows

Hasselblad supports RAW output with 16-bit files and dual card slots ideal for studio and commercial workflows, plus USB 3.0 and built-in GPS for geo-tagging. Olympus delivers 12-bit RAW with a single card slot and slower USB 2.0, plus no GPS, limiting professional utility.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Durability for Your Vision

The X1D II 50C benefits from environmental sealing, resisting dust and moisture - a must for photographers who work outdoors in varied conditions. Olympus’s E-PL5 lacks sealing, making it better suited for indoor or fair-weather use. For adventure or commercial projects, I’d strongly favor the Hasselblad in this regard.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: The World in Your Hands

Hasselblad’s X-mount supports 13 lenses - mostly premium, high-quality fixed focal lengths and zooms designed specifically for medium format’s sensor, offering superb optics but at a steep premium. This specialized lineup suits professionals invested heavily in image quality.

Conversely, the Micro Four Thirds mount of the Olympus E-PL5 boasts over 100 lenses from multiple manufacturers, offering incredible versatility on a budget. Whether wide-angle, macro, or telephoto, affordable and compact options are abundant, making the PEN E-PL5 an accessible system for photographers who value experimentation.

Battery Life and Storage: Shoot More, Worry Less

The Olympus E-PL5’s battery life achieves about 360 shots per charge, suitable for casual days out. The X1D II 50C lacks manufacturer-rated battery specs publicly but, based on my sessions, it tends toward shorter shooting durations due to the power-hungry sensor and OLED EVF, making spare batteries essential for extended work.

Storage-wise, the Hasselblad uses dual SD card slots with SD/SDHC/SDXC compatibility, ideal for backup and overflow. The Olympus is limited to a single SD card slot.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Hasselblad includes built-in wireless and GPS, which enhances workflow efficiencies in remote or on-the-move professional shoots. Olympus relies on Eye-Fi connected wireless only, with no Bluetooth or NFC options. USB 3.0 on Hasselblad vastly outperforms the USB 2.0 of the Olympus for faster data transfers.

Price-to-Performance: What Are You Really Paying For?

At street prices of around $5750 for the Hasselblad X1D II 50C and roughly $400 for the Olympus PEN E-PL5, the gulf is immense. The Hasselblad is an investment in image quality, build, and prestige for professionals who demand ultimate fidelity and can justify the cost via their work.

Olympus caters to enthusiasts wanting an affordable, versatile camera that fits varied shooting styles without breaking the bank. It’s an excellent introduction to mirrorless systems, with a big lens ecosystem and easy portability.

Summary of Performance Ratings

The Hasselblad scores impressively on image quality, color depth, and dynamic range but lags in speed. Olympus shines in speed and size but trails on image quality and build.

Strengths by Photography Genre

• Portraits & Studio: Hasselblad dominates with exceptional color and detail.
• Landscapes: Hasselblad’s high DR and resolution excel.
• Wildlife & Sports: Olympus's faster AF and burst rates suit casual shooters.
• Street & Travel: Olympus for discretion and weight.
• Macro: Olympus benefits from lenses and stabilization.
• Night: Hasselblad's sensor outperforms in low light.
• Video: Olympus usable for basic HD clips.
• Professional Use: Hasselblad’s build and workflow support are superior.

Real-World Sample Images: See for Yourself

Hasselblad X1D II 50C front Hasselblad X1D II 50C screen back Olympus E PL5 front Olympus E PL5 screen back

When I compared images side-by-side, the difference in resolution and tonality was striking. The Hasselblad delivers images bursting with detail and nuanced colors, while the Olympus images are pleasant but understandably softer with muted dynamic range.

Final Thoughts: Which Should You Choose?

In my experience, the decision comes down to your priorities:

• Choose the Hasselblad X1D II 50C if you are a discerning professional or serious enthusiast who demands top-tier image quality, impeccable build, and a camera that reflects your craft’s prestige. It is ideal for portraits, landscapes, commercial work, and studio shooting where absolute fidelity matters more than speed or size.

• Opt for the Olympus PEN E-PL5 if you are budget-conscious, new to mirrorless, or want a nimble, fun camera to explore street, travel, family, or casual macro photography. Its lightweight design, ample lens choices, and forgiving autofocus make it a solid day-to-day companion.

Personal Recommendation: Bridging Ambitions and Realities

While I hold the Hasselblad in high regard for its image quality and craftsmanship - and I’ve personally integrated it into fine-art projects - the Olympus remains one of the best-value entry points into mirrorless photography, still surprisingly competent nearly a decade after its launch.

The best approach is to match gear to your photographic needs and shooting style. Carry the Olympus for spontaneous street or travel shoots, but for your most critical creative work, the Hasselblad’s medium format sensor reveals details and tonal subtleties that will elevate your imagery far beyond what smaller formats can achieve.

Photography is a journey, and your camera choice marks your step on that path. I hope this in-depth comparison helps you take the next confident stride forward.

If you have specific shooting interests or want lens recommendations for either system, feel free to ask - my door’s always open to fellow photographers seeking honest advice!