Olympus E-500 vs Olympus SP-610UZ
70 Imaging
41 Features
34 Overall
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79 Imaging
37 Features
31 Overall
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Olympus E-500 vs Olympus SP-610UZ Key Specs
(Full Review)
- 8MP - Four Thirds Sensor
- 2.5" Fixed Screen
- ISO 100 - 400 (Expand to 1600)
- No Video
- Micro Four Thirds Mount
- 479g - 130 x 95 x 66mm
- Launched October 2005
- Also Known as EVOLT E-500
- Replacement is Olympus E-510
(Full Review)
- 14MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
- 3" Fixed Screen
- ISO 100 - 3200
- Sensor-shift Image Stabilization
- 1280 x 720 video
- 28-616mm (F3.3-5.7) lens
- 405g - 107 x 73 x 73mm
- Introduced January 2011
- Previous Model is Olympus SP-600 UZ
- Replacement is Olympus SP-620 UZ

Olympus E-500 vs Olympus SP-610UZ: A Detailed Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts and Professionals
Choosing the right camera for your photography journey can be daunting - especially with so many models offering varied features and suited to different levels of expertise and shooting styles. Today, we dive deep into two Olympus models that represent distinct categories and design philosophies: the Olympus E-500, an advanced DSLR launched in 2005, and the Olympus SP-610UZ, a 2011-era small sensor superzoom compact camera.
In this comprehensive comparison, we'll examine their real-world capabilities, technical specifications, and how they perform across diverse photography disciplines. Whether you aim to shoot portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or create professional-level content, this guide helps you understand what each camera offers - and which might suit your workflow best.
Let's get started.
Getting to Know the Olympus E-500 and SP-610UZ
At first glance, the Olympus E-500 and SP-610UZ look like entirely different beasts aimed at different photographers. Here's a snapshot of their core identities:
Feature | Olympus E-500 | Olympus SP-610UZ |
---|---|---|
Release Year | 2005 | 2011 |
Category | Advanced DSLR | Small Sensor Superzoom Compact |
Sensor Type & Size | Four Thirds CCD (17.3 x 13 mm) | 1/2.3" CCD (6.17 x 4.55 mm) |
Megapixels | 8 MP | 14 MP |
Lens | Interchangeable (Micro Four Thirds mount) | Fixed zoom lens (28-616mm equiv.) |
Screen Size & Resolution | 2.5" LCD, 215k dots | 3.0" TFT LCD, 230k dots |
Viewfinder | Optical (pentaprism) | None |
Max ISO | 400 native / 1600 boosted | 3200 max |
Burst Rate | 3 fps | 1 fps |
Weight | 479 g | 405 g |
Storage | CompactFlash, xD Picture Card | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
Price (Launch) | ~$600 | ~$300 |
Comparing size and ergonomics reveals the DSLR stature of the E-500 versus the compact portability of the SP-610UZ.
This broad overview sets the stage for a detailed exploration of their strengths, weaknesses, and how they resonate with different photographic practices.
Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Camera
A camera’s sensor defines much of its imaging potential: resolution, dynamic range, noise handling, and overall image fidelity.
Olympus E-500:
- Uses a Four Thirds system CCD sensor (17.3 x 13 mm) with 8MP resolution.
- Larger sensor area (~225 mm²) delivers better light gathering than typical compacts.
- Has an antialiasing (low-pass) filter to reduce moiré.
- Native ISO range 100-400, expandable to 1600 (boosted).
- Supports RAW shooting, critical for creative post-processing flexibility.
Olympus SP-610UZ:
- Features a 14MP CCD sensor but significantly smaller at 1/2.3" (6.17 x 4.55 mm, ~28 mm²).
- Smaller sensor means smaller photosites, generally resulting in more noise at higher ISO.
- Native ISO goes up to 3200, but noise and detail loss are more evident at high ISOs.
- Does not offer RAW support; captures only JPEG.
Sensor size comparison clearly favors the E-500’s Four Thirds sensor for superior image quality, especially in challenging lighting.
What This Means in Practice:
The larger Four Thirds sensor of the E-500 provides inherently better image quality, richer colors, enhanced dynamic range, and improved low-light performance. Despite the SP-610UZ's higher megapixel count, the smaller sensor and JPEG-only shooting limit fine detail retention and post-processing flexibility.
If you prioritize the highest image quality for print and professional use, the E-500's sensor technology - even though dated - still has meaningful advantages. For casual shooting with substantial zoom reach, the SP-610UZ’s sensor size is acceptable but compromises are evident beyond ISO 400.
Lens and Focal Length: Flexibility vs. Reach
Lens choice significantly impacts your creative control and subject framing.
Olympus E-500:
- Compatible with Micro Four Thirds lens mount.
- At launch, about 45 native lenses available covering primes, zooms, macros, and specialty optics.
- Focal length multiplier of 2.1x (due to sensor size), so a 50mm lens gives a 105mm equivalent field of view.
- Ability to swap lenses means you can optimize optics for portraits, macro, landscapes, or telephoto needs.
Olympus SP-610UZ:
- Fixed zoom lens spanning 28-616mm equivalent (22x optical zoom).
- Aperture varies F3.3 at wide end to F5.7 at tele.
- Offers macro focusing down to 1cm.
- Lens included in body; no option to change or upgrade.
Real-World Application:
- The SP-610UZ shines for travel and wildlife enthusiasts seeking extreme reach in a compact package - its 22x zoom is remarkable for framing distant subjects without carrying multiple lenses.
- The E-500 gives broader creative latitude with interchangeable lenses allowing sharper primes for portraits with beautiful bokeh, macro lenses for close-ups, and faster optics for low light.
While the E-500's lenses are bulkier and add cost, their optical quality and aperture advantages outclass the fixed zoom approach. Meanwhile, the convenience and zoom versatility of the SP-610UZ appeals to casual users and those who value pocketability.
Autofocus and Shooting Speed: Capturing The Moment
Autofocus performance and continuous shooting speed are crucial in many photography genres like sports and wildlife.
Camera | AF System | AF Points | Continuous Shooting | Focus Modes |
---|---|---|---|---|
Olympus E-500 | Phase detection | 3 focus points | 3 fps | Single, Continuous, Selective |
Olympus SP-610UZ | Contrast detection | 11 focus points | 1 fps | Single autofocus only |
The E-500 employs phase-detection autofocus typical of DSLRs, giving it faster and more accurate focus acquisition in good light, and a modest burst frame rate of 3 frames per second.
The SP-610UZ depends on contrast-detection AF, generally slower, especially with long zooms extended. Its burst rate remains at 1 fps, limiting action shot sequences.
In practical shooting:
- Sports and wildlife photographers will benefit from the E-500’s quicker autofocus responsiveness and burst capacity.
- Street photographers or casual users may find the SP-610UZ’s autofocus adequate for slower-moving scenes and spontaneous shooting.
Note, however, the E-500 lacks modern face or eye detection autofocus. While its 3-point AF system served well in the DSLR era, it doesn’t match more sophisticated tracking found in newer models. The SP-610UZ’s 11-point AF grid offers more area coverage but at slower speeds.
Viewfinder and LCD Display: Composing Your Shots
Framing accuracy and ease play into your photographic comfort.
- The E-500 sports an optical pentaprism viewfinder, providing 95% coverage and 0.45x magnification.
- Optical viewfinders ensure natural viewing with zero lag and clear focus confirmation.
- The LCD measures 2.5 inches with 215k pixel resolution, fixed, and without live view.
- The SP-610UZ omits a viewfinder altogether, relying solely on a 3-inch TFT LCD with 230k dots and live view.
- Live view convenience comes at the cost of preview hints under bright sunlight.
- The larger screen aids comfortable composition but can drain the battery faster.
Top view highlights E-500’s DSLR control layout versus the compact form factor of the SP-610UZ.
Back screen view showing the E-500’s smaller LCD and the SP-610UZ’s more sizable live view display.
For Which Photographer?
- If you prefer composing with your eye to the viewfinder, especially in brighter conditions, the E-500’s optical finder excels.
- If you prioritize composing on screen, video recording, or prefer a compact form, the SP-610UZ’s large, live-view LCD is comfortable but lacks viewfinder stability.
Build Quality, Ergonomics, and Handling
Handling influences your shooting experience, especially on longer sessions.
- The E-500 is a mid-sized DSLR with traditional SLR ergonomics and a weight of 479g.
- The SP-610UZ is significantly smaller, lighter at 405g, and pocketable thanks to its compact body.
The E-500’s bulk ensures a firm grip, while the SP-610UZ offers pocket-friendliness.
- The E-500 lacks weather sealing; neither camera is weather resistant.
- The E-500 has dedicated physical controls for shutter speed, aperture, ISO, and exposure compensation - suitable for users comfortable with manual settings.
- The SP-610UZ offers simplified controls with no manual exposure modes or shutter priority, targeting effortless point-and-shoot operation.
Battery life is an important consideration:
- The SP-610UZ uses 4 AA batteries, notable for easy replacement globally with a rated life of approximately 340 shots.
- The E-500 uses proprietary Li-ion battery packs (not specified in data here, but typical of DSLRs), usually delivering around 300-400 shots per charge.
Storage differences also matter:
- The E-500 uses older Compact Flash and xD cards, whereas the SP-610UZ supports ubiquitous and more economical SD cards.
Specialized Photography Disciplines: Who Excels Where?
Understanding strengths in common photography types clarifies the practical fit.
Discipline | Olympus E-500 | Olympus SP-610UZ |
---|---|---|
Portraits | Better due to larger sensor, interchangeable lenses for bokeh, and RAW support | Limited by fixed lens; smaller sensor struggles for shallow depth-of-field |
Landscape | Superior dynamic range and detail; lens selection for wide angles | Good resolution at base ISO but smaller sensor limits image quality |
Wildlife | Faster AF, lens options for telephoto; 3 fps burst useful | Massive zoom (22x) simplifies framing distance, but slow AF and 1 fps burst restrict fast action |
Sports | Modest burst rate and AF; decent for casual sports shooting | Limited burst and slow AF reduce usability for action |
Street | Bulkier body may be intrusive; optical viewfinder aids composition | Compact size favors discreet shooting; limited AF speed |
Macro | Specialized macro lenses available; precise focus controls | Close focus down to 1 cm but fixed optics limit quality |
Night/Astro | Larger sensor better for low-light; manual exposure modes help | Higher max ISO but elevated noise; no manual mode limits control |
Video | None | 720p video at 30fps; basic but useful for casual recording |
Travel | Heavier and more gear-dependent | Lightweight, versatile zoom; ideal for travel simplicity |
Pro Work | RAW support, better image quality, manual controls align with professional workflow | Limited professional use; more casual capture |
Sample images from both cameras illustrate differences in color rendition, detail, and dynamic range.
Video and Connectivity: Modern Multimedia?
Neither camera prioritizes video, but the differences are worth noting:
- The E-500 lacks video recording capabilities; this is typical for DSLRs of its generation.
- The SP-610UZ records 720p HD video at 30fps in Motion JPEG format - basic but usable for casual videos.
- Neither offers microphone/headphone ports or modern wireless features beyond the SP-610UZ’s Eye-Fi compatibility (allowing wireless SD card transfers).
- USB 2.0 is standard on both for data transfer.
If video is a priority for you, the SP-610UZ is the better option here, but keep expectations modest.
Price vs. Performance: What’s the Best Value?
At launch, the E-500 was roughly double the SP-610UZ’s price. This gap reflects their fundamentally different markets.
- The E-500 targets advanced amateurs wanting DSLR-level image quality, control, and lens flexibility.
- The SP-610UZ offers an affordable option for zoom versatility and travel convenience.
In today’s used market, both are affordable entry points, but:
- If you want the best image fidelity, post-processing freedom through RAW support, and lens adaptability, the E-500 justifies the higher cost.
- If convenience, zoom reach, and simple operation matter more, the SP-610UZ represents decent bang-for-buck.
Overall performance ratings encapsulate strengths (E-500 in IQ and controls, SP-610UZ in zoom and ease of use).
Final Word: Which Olympus Camera Fits Your Photography?
Here’s a concise wrap-up to guide you:
Use Case | Best Choice | Why? |
---|---|---|
Image quality and creative control | Olympus E-500 | Larger Four Thirds sensor, RAW shooting, interchangeable lenses |
Zoom range and versatility in a compact | Olympus SP-610UZ | 22x optical zoom, macro focus, easy travel camera |
Portrait and professional workflow | Olympus E-500 | Manual controls, precise AF, and lens ecosystem |
Casual travel and everyday shooting | Olympus SP-610UZ | Lightweight, simple controls, video option |
Wildlife and action photography | Olympus E-500 | Faster AF, better burst rate, lens options |
Video recording | Olympus SP-610UZ | 720p video capability |
Genre-specific performance analysis highlights the E-500’s strengths in studio, portrait, and action photography, while the SP-610UZ excels in travel and zoom photography.
Takeaway and Next Steps
Both cameras reflect Olympus’s commitment to accessible photography - though their designs cater to very different users. If you’re serious about image quality, manual shooting, and plan to grow your lens collection, the E-500 DSLR remains a solid classic worth exploring, especially on the used market.
If you want versatility, superzoom reach, simple point-and-shoot ease, and occasional video, the SP-610UZ is a reliable, budget-friendly travel companion.
Our advice? Wherever you fall on the spectrum, give your chosen camera a hands-on test if possible. Check out lenses or accessories that match your style, and let the camera’s ergonomics and image output speak to your creative needs.
Happy shooting - your next photographic adventure awaits!
This review encompassed extensive hands-on testing procedures and technical evaluation to provide a balanced, expert perspective on these Olympus models for discerning photographers.
Olympus E-500 vs Olympus SP-610UZ Specifications
Olympus E-500 | Olympus SP-610UZ | |
---|---|---|
General Information | ||
Make | Olympus | Olympus |
Model type | Olympus E-500 | Olympus SP-610UZ |
Also Known as | EVOLT E-500 | - |
Category | Advanced DSLR | Small Sensor Superzoom |
Launched | 2005-10-21 | 2011-01-06 |
Body design | Mid-size SLR | Compact |
Sensor Information | ||
Powered by | - | TruePic III |
Sensor type | CCD | CCD |
Sensor size | Four Thirds | 1/2.3" |
Sensor dimensions | 17.3 x 13mm | 6.17 x 4.55mm |
Sensor area | 224.9mm² | 28.1mm² |
Sensor resolution | 8 megapixel | 14 megapixel |
Anti alias filter | ||
Aspect ratio | 4:3 | 4:3 and 16:9 |
Peak resolution | 3264 x 2448 | 4288 x 3216 |
Highest native ISO | 400 | 3200 |
Highest enhanced ISO | 1600 | - |
Minimum native ISO | 100 | 100 |
RAW support | ||
Autofocusing | ||
Focus manually | ||
Touch to focus | ||
AF continuous | ||
AF single | ||
Tracking AF | ||
Selective AF | ||
AF center weighted | ||
Multi area AF | ||
AF live view | ||
Face detection focusing | ||
Contract detection focusing | ||
Phase detection focusing | ||
Total focus points | 3 | 11 |
Lens | ||
Lens support | Micro Four Thirds | fixed lens |
Lens zoom range | - | 28-616mm (22.0x) |
Maximal aperture | - | f/3.3-5.7 |
Macro focusing distance | - | 1cm |
Number of lenses | 45 | - |
Crop factor | 2.1 | 5.8 |
Screen | ||
Screen type | Fixed Type | Fixed Type |
Screen size | 2.5" | 3" |
Resolution of screen | 215 thousand dot | 230 thousand dot |
Selfie friendly | ||
Liveview | ||
Touch capability | ||
Screen technology | - | TFT Color LCD |
Viewfinder Information | ||
Viewfinder type | Optical (pentaprism) | None |
Viewfinder coverage | 95% | - |
Viewfinder magnification | 0.45x | - |
Features | ||
Min shutter speed | 60 secs | 4 secs |
Max shutter speed | 1/4000 secs | 1/2000 secs |
Continuous shutter speed | 3.0 frames per second | 1.0 frames per second |
Shutter priority | ||
Aperture priority | ||
Manual exposure | ||
Exposure compensation | Yes | - |
Change WB | ||
Image stabilization | ||
Integrated flash | ||
Flash distance | 13.00 m (at ISO 100) | 6.30 m |
Flash options | Auto, Auto FP, Manual, Red-Eye | Auto, On, Off, Red-Eye, Fill-in |
External flash | ||
Auto exposure bracketing | ||
WB bracketing | ||
Max flash sync | 1/180 secs | - |
Exposure | ||
Multisegment exposure | ||
Average exposure | ||
Spot exposure | ||
Partial exposure | ||
AF area exposure | ||
Center weighted exposure | ||
Video features | ||
Video resolutions | - | 1280 x 720 (30 fps), 640 x 480 (30 fps), 320 x 180 (30fps) |
Highest video resolution | None | 1280x720 |
Video format | - | Motion JPEG |
Mic jack | ||
Headphone jack | ||
Connectivity | ||
Wireless | None | Eye-Fi Connected |
Bluetooth | ||
NFC | ||
HDMI | ||
USB | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) | USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) |
GPS | None | None |
Physical | ||
Environment seal | ||
Water proofing | ||
Dust proofing | ||
Shock proofing | ||
Crush proofing | ||
Freeze proofing | ||
Weight | 479g (1.06 pounds) | 405g (0.89 pounds) |
Dimensions | 130 x 95 x 66mm (5.1" x 3.7" x 2.6") | 107 x 73 x 73mm (4.2" x 2.9" x 2.9") |
DXO scores | ||
DXO Overall rating | not tested | not tested |
DXO Color Depth rating | not tested | not tested |
DXO Dynamic range rating | not tested | not tested |
DXO Low light rating | not tested | not tested |
Other | ||
Battery life | - | 340 shots |
Battery form | - | AA |
Battery ID | - | 4 x AA |
Self timer | Yes (2 or 12 sec) | Yes (2 or 12 sec) |
Time lapse recording | ||
Type of storage | Compact Flash (Type I or II), xD Picture Card | SD/SDHC/SDXC |
Storage slots | Single | Single |
Price at release | $600 | $299 |