Nikon Z5 vs Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II: A Comprehensive Hands-On Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

As an experienced camera tester with over 15 years of hands-on work across the photography spectrum, I often get asked how older pro cameras stack up against more modern rivals from other manufacturers. Today, I’m diving deep into a side-by-side comparison of two popular mirrorless cameras - the Nikon Z5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. Both have strong reputations and are designed for serious enthusiasts and professionals, yet they differ profoundly in sensor technology, system design, and usage philosophy.

This article draws on exhaustive real-world field testing, sensor lab evaluations, and usability trials across major photography genres. Whether you’re into portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or video, let’s explore which of these two deserves your hard-earned money in 2024.

Setting the Stage: Nikon Z5 vs Olympus E-M1 II at a Glance

Before we dissect the technicalities, here’s a quick overview of how these cameras compare physically and technically.

• Nikon Z5 (2020): Full-frame mirrorless with a 24MP sensor, Nikon’s Z-mount lenses, and 5-axis sensor-shift image stabilization.
• Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II (2016): Micro Four Thirds system with a smaller 20MP sensor, extensive 107-lens ecosystem, and robust 5-axis sensor stabilization.

At first glance, the Nikon Z5 commands a larger body due to its full-frame sensor and heftier build, while the Olympus is notably more compact and lighter - qualities that favor portability.

Image Quality and Sensor Technology: The Heart of Photography

Your choice of camera sensor shapes everything from image quality to depth of field control, ISO sensitivity, and dynamic range. I tested both cameras using my standard lab setups and real-world shooting scenarios.

Nikon Z5: Full-Frame Excellence

• Sensor size: 35.9 x 23.9 mm (Full-frame)
• Resolution: 24MP
• Sensor tech: CMOS with optical low-pass filter (anti-aliasing)
• ISO range: 100 (native) to 51,200 (native), expandable to 50–102,400

Full frame sensors typically deliver richer tonal gradation, superior dynamic range, and better noise control. The Nikon Z5 follows this paradigm well: I observed cleaner high ISO images up to ISO 6400 with minimal chroma noise and good retention of shadow detail. The anti-aliasing filter, while slightly softening micro detail, reduces moiré effectively in fine patterns - a trade-off common in many full-frame models.

Olympus E-M1 Mark II: MFT Versatility

• Sensor size: 17.4 x 13 mm (Micro Four Thirds)
• Resolution: 20MP
• Sensor tech: CMOS without anti-aliasing filter
• ISO range: 200 (native) to 25,600 (native), expandable 64+

The MFT sensor is roughly 1/4 the surface area of full-frame, inherently limiting noise performance and dynamic range, particularly in low light. Still, the Olympus sensor’s lack of anti-aliasing filter yields sharper details at base ISO, which benefits landscape and macro photography. I noticed image noise ramped up more rapidly beyond ISO 3200, so caution is advised when shooting in dim conditions.

Direct Takeaway:

• For image quality purists, the Z5 is the clear winner, offering richer colors, better low-light control, and smoother gradients.
• For compact portability and lens flexibility with decent image quality, the E-M1 II holds strong, especially when paired with Olympus' world-class lens options.

Autofocus Performance: Tracking, Accuracy, and Speed

Whether you’re a portrait photographer locking onto eyes or a wildlife shooter tracking erratic animals, autofocus can make or break the experience.

Nikon Z5’s Autofocus System

• 273 focus points, hybrid phase and contrast detection
• Eye-detection (human and animal) with face priority
• Af modes: Single, continuous, tracking, touch AF
• Max burst speed: 4.5 fps with AF-C

While the Z5’s 4.5 fps may appear modest for action, its 273 focus points cover a wide sensor area ensuring precise focus acquisition. The eye and animal eye AF are reliable and consistent in my tests, significantly aiding portrait and pet photography. However, when shooting fast wildlife or sports, the relatively moderate burst speed limits action sequence capture.

Olympus E-M1 Mark II’s Autofocus

• 121 focus points, hybrid phase and contrast detection
• No dedicated animal eye AF
• Sophisticated subject tracking with AI enhancements (when paired with latest firmware)
• Max burst speed: 60 fps electronic shutter mode, 15 fps mechanical with AF-C

For fast-paced sports and wildlife, the Olympus excels with its blistering burst speed (especially electronic shutter silent shooting) and advanced predictive autofocus. Though lacking animal eye AF, continuous tracking performs admirably outdoors. The sophisticated phase-detect points across the MFT sensor maintain accuracy at high frame rates.

Real-World Use Insight:

• If sports, birds, or wildlife shoots are your passion, Olympus likely offers more action-ready autofocus mechanics.
• For portraits and general photography, Nikon’s eye and animal AF add a valuable layer of precision.

Build, Handling, and Ergonomics: How the Cameras Feel in Your Hands

The physical design of a camera impacts how confidently and comfortably you shoot, especially in extended sessions.

Nikon Z5 Ergonomics

• Heavier and larger (675g, 134x101x70mm)
• Solid build with environmental sealing against moisture and dust (not waterproof)
• 3.2-inch tilting touchscreen, crisp 1.04M dots
• A well-laid control scheme tailored to Nikon Z users, good button placement, and a responsive menu system

I found the Z5’s grip excellent for larger lenses and long shoots. The tilting screen helps with low or awkward angles, though it doesn’t fully articulate for selfies or vlogging.

Olympus E-M1 Mark II Ergonomics

• Lighter and more compact (574g, 134x91x67mm)
• Comprehensive weather sealing
• Smaller 3” fully articulating touchscreen, similar dot resolution
• Extensive physical buttons and dials, mimicking a pro SLR with customizable controls

Olympus’ smaller size and articulating screen make it ideal for travel, street photography, and vlogging. The button layout encourages quick setting changes without digging through menus.

Ergonomics Summary:

• Nikon Z5 offers a more substantial feel that fits enthusiasts preferring SLR-style heft.
• Olympus is designed for agility and portability, with a proven weather-sealed body to keep going in tough conditions.

Lens Ecosystem: What Glass Will You Be Investing In?

Lens choice is often the biggest long-term investment and influences photographic results profoundly.

• Nikon Z5 uses the Nikon Z-mount with 15 native lenses available at launch, spanning wide primes, zooms, and specialty optics.
• Olympus E-M1 II employs the Micro Four Thirds mount, which boasts a massive ecosystem of over 100 native lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, and third parties.

Many photographers transitioning to Nikon’s Z-series worry about lens availability, but Nikon’s recent aggressive expansion of native Z lenses - including affordable primes - has closed the gap considerably.

The MFT system shines for compactness and affordability of lenses. Due to the 2.1x crop factor, telephoto lenses naturally extend reach while maintaining small size. That’s ideal for wildlife or sports on a budget.

Lens takeaway:

• If you want ultimate image quality and glass, Nikon’s large-format Z lenses deliver exceptional results but tend to be larger and more expensive.
• If you prioritize versatility, affordability, and compactness, Olympus’ vast MFT lens ecosystem offers great specialty options, especially telephoto and macro lenses.

Frame Rates, Burst Shooting, and Buffer: Capturing the Decisive Moment

• Nikon Z5 offers a respectable 4.5 fps continuous shooting speed, adequate for general use but limited for fast action. Buffer depth is modest but sufficient for 20+ RAW frames.
• Olympus E-M1 II impresses with a mechanical shutter burst up to 15 fps, and electronic shutter allows an astonishing 60 fps, though in limited modes. Ample buffer to accommodate dozens of RAW shots.

If you shoot sports or wildlife intensely, Olympus is clearly superior. Nikon’s Z5 burst suits enthusiasts doing casual fast shooting or portraits.

Video Capabilities: Beyond Stills

Video is a crucial secondary consideration for many photographers today.

While both deliver competent 4K video for casual filmmakers, Olympus edges ahead for vloggers and hybrid shooters thanks to the fully articulating screen and very effective in-body stabilization. Nikon’s clip quality is excellent with pleasing skin tones.

Specialized Photography Disciplines: Which Camera Excels Where?

I took both cameras through varied genre-specific tests to evaluate their suitability across the photographic board.

Nikon Z5 front Nikon Z5 screen back Olympus E M1 II front Olympus E M1 II screen back

Durability, Weather Sealing, and Battery Life

• Both bodies feature environmental sealing against dust and moisture but are not fully waterproof.
• Nikon Z5 provides longer battery life (approx. 470 shots per charge) via EN-EL15c pack, a boon on long trips.
• Olympus E-M1 II is rated for approx. 350 shots with BLH-1 battery, acceptable but less generous; however, USB charging is beneficial.

If your work involves rugged conditions and extended shoots, Nikon’s battery edge is notable. Olympus’ smaller size improves handling in tough spots but may require carrying spares.

Connectivity, Storage, and Workflow Considerations

• Both support dual SD card slots with UHS-II compatibility enabling fast write speeds and backup.
• Nikon Z5 boasts both built-in WiFi and Bluetooth, offering flexible wireless transfer and remote control.
• Olympus E-M1 II has built-in WiFi only, with no Bluetooth, though USB 3.0 connectivity is a plus for faster transfers.

In my workflow testing, Nikon’s connectivity was smoother across standard apps, whereas Olympus’ USB 3.0 port allowed rapid tethered shooting and file downloads.

Price-to-Performance: Which Camera is the Better Value?

While the Olympus E-M1 II remains pricier despite its age, its feature set caters to specialist needs like speed and ruggedness. The Z5 offers newer tech and modern ergonomics at a more accessible price point, especially for those prioritizing image quality.

Who Should Buy the Nikon Z5?

If you want:

• Full-frame sensor advantages: superior image quality, low-light latitude, larger print potential
• Thoughtfully designed controls with a clean UI
• Reliable eye and animal autofocus for portraits and pets
• Robust battery life for extended shoots
• Excellent 4K video for casual filmmaking

Then the Nikon Z5 stands out as a versatile, all-around tool. It’s especially suited for portrait, landscape, travel, and hybrid shooters who want high-quality images without breaking the bank on Nikon’s flagship Z cameras.

Who Should Choose the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II?

Consider the Olympus E-M1 II if:

• You need exceptional burst rates and action tracking for wildlife or sports
• Compact size and weight are crucial for travel or street shooting
• You crave access to one of the world’s largest and most affordable lens ecosystems
• You require comprehensive environmental sealing and rugged construction
• Your shooting involves lots of video and vlogging thanks to the articulated screen and in-body stabilization

Olympus' system excels for users prioritizing speed, versatility, and durability in a smaller form factor, especially for telephoto work via its 2.1x crop factor.

Final Thoughts: Balancing Sensor Size, Speed, and System Versatility

Both the Nikon Z5 and Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II represent compelling options tailored to different needs.

• The Nikon Z5 is a champion of image quality, low-light performance, and beginner-friendly ergonomics in a full-frame mirrorless body. It's a natural fit for portraitists, landscape fans, and photographers needing great overall image quality with reliable autofocus.
• The Olympus E-M1 Mark II is a speed and portability powerhouse designed for fast shooters and travelers who benefit from its extensive lens collection, rapid frame rates, and practical usability in challenging environments.

Ultimately, your choice depends on priorities: Do you want the best image quality and a full-frame footprint? Nikon’s Z5 delivers. Or do you need burst speed, ruggedness, and portability in a petite chassis backed by a vast lens lineup? That’s where Olympus shines.

Choosing a camera is deeply personal, but I hope my years of testing and this detailed comparison help you make an informed decision that’s perfect for your photographic journey.

Thank you for reading! If you found this comparison helpful, be sure to check out my detailed lens guides and complementary articles on camera workflow optimization.