Olympus E-M1 II vs Panasonic S5

Here, we will be reviewing the Olympus E-M1 II versus Panasonic S5, both Pro Mirrorless cameras by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the E-M1 II (20MP) and the S5 (24MP) is relatively comparable but the E-M1 II (Four Thirds) and S5 (Full frame) provide totally different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The E-M1 II was released 4 years earlier than the S5 which is a fairly serious difference as far as camera tech is concerned. Both cameras feature the same body design (SLR-style mirrorless).

Before we go right into a detailed comparison, here is a brief highlight of how the E-M1 II scores against the S5 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II & Panasonic Lumix DC-S5. The complete galleries are provided at Olympus E-M1 II Gallery & Panasonic S5 Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to carry around your camera often, you should think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-M1 II enjoys outer measurements of 134mm x 91mm x 67mm (5.3" x 3.6" x 2.6") accompanied by a weight of 574 grams (1.27 lbs) and the Panasonic S5 has proportions of 133mm x 97mm x 82mm (5.2" x 3.8" x 3.2") accompanied by a weight of 714 grams (1.57 lbs).

Analyze the Olympus E-M1 II versus Panasonic S5 in our brand new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you have during that time. Below is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-M1 II compared to the S5.

Looking at size and weight, the portability grade of the E-M1 II and S5 is 68 and 60 respectively.

Often, its tough to see the contrast in sensor sizes merely by going through technical specs. The picture below will provide you a far better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-M1 II and S5.

As you have seen, each of these cameras feature different megapixels and different sensor sizes. The E-M1 II due to its smaller sensor will make getting shallow depth of field more difficult and the Panasonic S5 will provide more detail as a result of its extra 4MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop photographs way more aggressively. The more aged E-M1 II will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.