Nikon Z7 II vs Olympus OM-D E-M5 II: An In-Depth Mirrorless Camera Showdown

When it comes to choosing a mirrorless camera, the market is a sprawling constellation of options - each with its unique personality, strengths, and quirks. Today, I’m diving deep into a face-off between two well-regarded yet distinct models: Nikon’s full-frame powerhouse, the Z7 Mark II, and Olympus’s compact, seasoned OM-D E-M5 Mark II from the Micro Four Thirds camp.

These cameras came from different eras and were designed with very different ambitions in mind; yet, both have earned loyal followings among enthusiasts and professionals alike. I’ve spent substantial hands-on hours with both cameras across a variety of shooting scenarios to help you cut through the specs and marketing hype. Whether you’re eyeing landscape vistas, delicate macro work, or demanding sports action, here’s everything you need to know to make an informed choice.

Size, Build, and Ergonomics - Which One Fits Your Hands and Style?

One of the first things you notice when holding these two cameras side by side is the obvious disparity in size and heft.

The Nikon Z7 II weighs in at 705 grams and measures 134 × 101 × 70 mm. It’s a substantial camera with robust SLR-style ergonomics. The grip is deep and confident, designed for larger hands and extended shooting sessions, which really comes into play when you’re hunkering down for prolonged landscape shoots or sports events. Nikon’s attention to tactile detail in button layout and dial travel pays dividends here - the Z7 II feels like a professional tool engineered to withstand serious use.

The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, in contrast, is a much more compact and lighter mirrorless at 469 grams and measuring 124 × 85 × 45 mm. This size advantage makes it an absolute delight for travel, street photography, or any situation where discretion is key. The camera’s well-contoured, though more petite grip fits hands well for most users, but anyone with larger mitts might find it a little less substantial during long shoots. Still, Olympus manages to pack a ton of functionality into a body that slips unobtrusively into a day pack or larger coat pocket.

Ergonomically, the Z7 II offers an illuminated top LCD panel and a richer array of physical controls - allowing serious shooters to adjust settings on the fly without fumbling through menus. The E-M5 II lacks a top screen but compensates with a fully articulated touchscreen that swivels for variably angled shooting, even selfie-friendly setups (Olympus clearly nods to vloggers and casual shooters here). Touch responsiveness is solid on both, but Nikon's higher-res 3.2-inch tilting screen (2100k dots) outclasses Olympus's 3-inch fully articulated display (1037k dots) in terms of sharpness and brightness.

If you prize physical control and high resolution feedback over portability, Nikon is the champion here. But for users who want a nimble platform that won’t weigh you down during travel or quick street snaps, Olympus’s smaller frame is a compelling advantage.

Sensor & Image Quality: The Battle of Full Frame vs Micro Four Thirds

At the heart of any camera comparison is the image quality - and this comes down largely to sensor size and design. Nikon’s Z7 II features a large 46.5-megapixel full-frame Backside Illuminated CMOS sensor, measuring 35.9 × 23.9 mm. Olympus counters with a 16-megapixel Four Thirds MOS sensor, 17.3 × 13 mm in size. Let’s not mince words: the Z7 II’s sensor is roughly four times larger in surface area, which translates to fundamental advantages in detail, dynamic range, and noise handling.

The Z7 II produces stunning, richly detailed RAW files with up to 8256 × 5504 resolution - easily capable of delivering large, sharp prints or extreme cropping flexibility. Nikon’s sensor, without an optical low-pass filter, delivers crisp images with excellent color depth and smooth tonal gradations.

Conversely, the E-M5 II’s 16MP resolution maxes out at 4608 × 3456 pixels, which is still respectable but will reveal limits for those who need large archival prints or cropping headroom. Olympus uses a micro-lens and anti-aliasing filter that help with sharpness and moiré control but can slightly soften details compared to Nikon’s filter-less sensor.

Dynamic range wise, Nikon’s Z7 II excels with a broad reach that ensures shadows retain detail without blowing out highlights, especially valuable for landscape or HDR work. Olympus - despite its respectable DxO mark of 73 overall - can’t quite match the full-frame’s broader latitude in tricky lighting conditions.

When it comes to high ISO performance, this gap widens further. Nikon’s native ISO tops at 25,600 with boost up to 102,400; images remain surprisingly clean even in low light, thanks to the sensor’s larger pixel size and BSI design. The Olympus caps out at ISO 25,600 (no boost), but noise becomes noticeable much earlier, around ISO 1600–3200, restricting its usefulness in dimly lit environments.

In practical terms: Nikon is the go-to for professionals and enthusiasts who demand ultimate image quality and flexibility. Olympus, weighing its smaller sensor’s limitations, still delivers punchy, vibrant images great for web, small to medium prints, and everyday shooting without lugging full-frame gear.

Autofocus & Speed: Tracking Wildlife to Street Moments

Every photographer knows that a camera is only as good as its ability to keep subjects sharp, especially in fast-paced or unpredictable scenarios. Here, Nikon’s Z7 II shoots way ahead with 493 phase-detect AF points spread generously across the frame, incorporating on-sensor phase detection for swift, accurate locking - even in low light. Its advanced AF system supports eye and animal eye detection, a feature I’ve tested extensively with great results capturing fast-moving wildlife and children alike.

The Olympus E-M5 II, in contrast, relies on a contrast-detect AF system with 81 focus points. While perfectly adequate for slower-paced photography and static subjects, it stumbles when chasing erratic movement or in poor lighting. Without phase-detection, autofocus can be a little hesitant and hunting is more frequent. Importantly, Olympus lacks animal eye detection, which can be a drawback for wildlife or pet photographers.

Both cameras top out at 10 fps continuous shooting, which is quite snappy, but combined with Olympus’s less advanced AF tracking, Nikon provides a more reliable experience for sports, action, and wildlife. Nikon also offers a modest shutter speed floor of 1/8000s, matching Olympus’s mechanical shutter ceiling, but Olympus excels with a very fast 1/16000s electronic shutter and silent shooting mode - ideal for discreet street photography or sensitive settings.

Weather, Durability, and Build - Ready for the Elements?

Speaking of real-world shooting, environmental sealing can be a deal-maker or breaker depending on where you roam. Both cameras deliver solid weather sealing: dust and splash resistance, but neither is waterproof or shockproof. That said, Nikon’s body feels more notably robust - a reflection of its professional SLR pedigree - designed to endure harsh conditions over long periods.

Olympus’s E-M5 II was ahead of its time in weather sealing for its size, making it popular among traveling photographers who want something light, tough, and versatile. The rugged magnesium alloy shell, combined with its smaller body, means it’s a great companion for hiking or street photography without the bulk of heavier pro bodies.

Lens Systems - The Ecosystem Battle

No camera stands alone; the available lens ecosystem is critical. Nikon’s Z mount system currently boasts 15 native lenses and a growing roster - including some stunningly sharp primes and versatile zooms optimized for 46MP quality. Plus, with Nikon’s FTZ adapter, you can use virtually all F-mount DSLR glass with good AF support, which opens expansive creative doors. Nikon’s manufactures competition-grade glass from 14-24mm f/2.8 to 180-400mm super-telephoto, covering nearly every professional use.

Olympus’s Micro Four Thirds mount has over 107 native lenses, from Olympus and Panasonic, making it the most extensive mirrorless lens ecosystem by a distance. This includes a wealth of affordable primes, creative specialty optics, and professional telephotos. The smaller sensor and shorter flange distance mean lenses tend to be smaller and lighter, great for mobility, but autofocus speed and optical quality often can’t fully match larger-sensor glass's performance.

In short, Nikon offers fewer but top-tier, large-aperture professional glass suited for portfolio-grade work, while Olympus provides incredible flexibility for every price tier and niche, especially for newcomers or budget-constrained shooters.

Specialties and Strengths by Photography Genre

Let’s break down how both cameras stack up across a wide range of photography disciplines:

Portraits and Bokeh

With its full-frame sensor and Nikon’s face & eye detection autofocus, the Z7 II renders skin tones beautifully and produces creamy, smooth bokeh - ideal for isolating subjects. Olympus’s smaller sensor struggles to achieve the same shallow depth of field unless using very fast lenses, which are rare and expensive; portraits tend to be sharper but flatter and less three-dimensional.

Landscapes and Naturals

Here, Nikon’s massive dynamic range and resolution shine. The 46MP files capture exquisite detail in shadows and highlights. Olympus performs admirably, especially when using in-camera stabilization plus computational techniques, but can’t rival full-frame’s tonal nuance. Olympus’s smaller size and waterproof weather sealing comfort hikers and adventurers who value mobility.

Wildlife and Sports

Nikon’s autofocus sophistication, faster AF acquisition, superior low-light abilities, and larger, sturdier body with longer lens options give it the clear edge. Olympus’s 10 fps burst is decent, but autofocus limitations and smaller sensor limit image quality under challenging conditions.

Street and Travel Photography

Olympus’s discreet, lightweight chassis and fully articulating screen make it a joy for street and travel shooters who prioritize portability and silence. Nikon is bigger and heavier, harder to conceal, but rewards with superior image quality when size isn’t the top priority.

Macro and Close-Ups

Both cameras support focus bracketing and stacking, but Olympus’s improved in-body 5-axis stabilization combined with findable affordable macro lenses makes it an accessible choice for close-up shooters. Nikon offers excellent precision but requires bulkier, pricier macro lenses.

Night Sky and Astro

Full-frame sensor size and low noise at high ISO give Nikon a huge advantage for astrophotography - clean stars and richer color rendition. Olympus, with higher noise past ISO 1600, requires longer exposures and will deliver softer images.

Video: Which Camera Better Handles Moving Pictures?

Nikon Z7 II edges ahead with 4K UHD video at 60p using a 10-bit H.264 codec at 144 Mbps, microphone input, and headphone jack for monitoring - features geared toward serious videographers. Olympus caps out at 1080p Full HD at 60p but includes a microphone port. Neither camera supports 4K in the Olympus case, reflecting their different target markets.

Both cameras offer in-body 5-axis stabilization, which in combination with lens IS helps smooth handheld footage, but Nikon’s newer processor and codecs yield better results in dynamic shooting.

Batteries, Storage, and Connectivity: Keeping You Shooting Longer

The Nikon uses the powerful EN-EL15c battery, rated for about 420 shots per charge under CIPA standards. Olympus’s smaller BLN-1 battery lasts roughly 310 shots per charge. While neither is marathon-level endurance, Nikon affords a bit more longevity for full-day work.

On storage, Nikon supports newer CFexpress (Type B), XQD, and SD cards with dual slots - a professional-level failsafe and flexibility that Olympus’s single SD slot can’t match, which could be a dealbreaker for demanding workflows.

Nikon offers built-in Bluetooth and Wi-Fi, while the Olympus only offers Wi-Fi built-in, lacking Bluetooth for quick pairing.

Price and Value: What Do You Get for Your Money?

At launch prices, Nikon’s Z7 II came in around $3000, whereas Olympus E-M5 II was in the neighborhood of $700 - a stark difference, but one reflecting sensor size, build quality, and capabilities.

If immense resolution, autofocus performance, professional build, and the best image quality matter, investing in Nikon makes sense. If budget, portability, extensive lens options, and versatile daily shooting appeal more, Olympus represents an excellent value proposition.

Nikon Z7 II front Nikon Z7 II screen back Olympus E M5 II front Olympus E M5 II screen back

Conclusion: Which Camera is Right for You?

After spending considerable time putting these two through their paces, here’s how I see it:

• Choose the Nikon Z7 II if you:

  • Prioritize image quality and high resolution for professional and fine art photography.
  • Need rugged build, weather sealing, dual card slots.
  • Shoot demanding subjects like wildlife, sports, or landscapes in challenging light.
  • Want top-tier video with 4K60 capabilities and comprehensive connectivity.
  • Are comfortable with the weight and investment required by full-frame systems.

• Choose the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II if you:

  • Value portability, lightweight design, and discreet shooting.
  • Shoot primarily in good light or for personal, travel, street, or macro photography.
  • Want access to the vast Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem with affordable options.
  • Don’t need 4K video or full-frame sensor quality.
  • Are budget-conscious but still want solid in-body stabilization and weather resistance.

Both cameras represent strong entries in their respective categories. Nikon’s Z7 II is a serious tool built for professionals and advanced enthusiasts seeking ultimate image performance. Olympus’s E-M5 II is a nimble, joyful system perfect for creative travelers, street photographers, and hobbyists.

It boils down to your priorities: image excellence and cutting-edge tech, or compact versatility and great value. Either way, you’re in for a rewarding photographic journey.

If you want to know more about setup tips, recommended lenses, or have follow-up questions on shooting scenarios with either camera, feel free to ask - I’ve got plenty of stories and sample files to share. Happy shooting!