Olympus E-M1 Mark II vs Panasonic GF7: A Deep Dive into Micro Four Thirds Excellence

When choosing a Micro Four Thirds camera, the range spans from entry-level fun-makers to professional workhorses. Today, we compare two distinctly different beasts within this ecosystem: the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF7. Though sharing the same sensor size and lens mount, these two cameras target entirely different users with vastly different aspirations and workflows.

Having tested the Olympus E-M1 II extensively in demanding professional fieldwork and used the Panasonic GF7 in casual travel and street environments, I aim to provide a thorough, no-nonsense comparison. We’ll explore everything from build and handling to autofocus, image quality, video, and suitability across photographic disciplines. Let’s get into it.

First Impressions: Size, Handling, and Build Quality

Physical design often influences first impressions and long-term usability. The Olympus E-M1 II is a robust SLR-style body with pro-level ergonomics, while the Panasonic GF7 adopts a smaller, rangefinder-style silhouette aimed at portability.

At 134x91x67mm and 574g, the E-M1 II feels substantial but still manageable, especially with larger lenses attached. It offers a confident grip, textured rubber surfaces, and weather sealing - a critical factor for outdoor and professional use. In contrast, the GF7 is a compact 107x65x33mm and weighs a mere 266g, making it pocketable for everyday outings but less stable with heavy lenses.

The Olympus’s body embodies ruggedness with magnesium alloy construction and thorough sealing against dust and splash - ideal for landscape photographers braving the elements or wildlife shooters tracking in tough conditions. The GF7 is plastic-bodied, with no weatherproofing, signaling it’s best for indoor, urban, or casual travel shooting.

Handling-wise, the E-M1 II provides a deep grip and thoughtfully placed buttons, which we’ll see in more detail next. The GF7’s smaller size means a minimalist control layout and compromises on manual operation comfort, but it scores in being lightweight and discreet - a perfect travel companion for street photographers who prize subtlety over bulk.

Control Layout and Interface Experience

Looking closer at the control surfaces reveals how these cameras approach user interaction differently:

The Olympus E-M1 II features two large dials (front and rear), dedicated buttons for key functions, and customizable controls. This layout supports quick adjustments on the fly - think changing ISO or exposure compensation mid-action without diving into menus. The presence of an AF joystick and top display (omitted on the GF7) further underscore its pro ergonomic design.

By contrast, the GF7’s top deck is minimal, favoring a single mode dial and fewer direct buttons. The emphasis here is simplicity and ease for entry-level photographers. The lack of an electronic viewfinder on the GF7 necessitates reliance on the rear LCD for composition, which can be a drawback in bright outdoor conditions.

Speaking of screens…

Rear Screen and Viewfinding: Articulated vs Tilting, EVF vs None

The Olympus E-M1 II sports a 3-inch fully articulating touchscreen with 1,037k-dot resolution paired with a bright 2.36M-dot electronic viewfinder offering 100% coverage and 0.74x magnification. This very high-resolution EVF greatly benefits outdoor shooting where LCD clarity suffers. The articulating screen aids video shooters and low/high angle stills - very handy for macros and street work.

The GF7’s 3-inch 1,040k-dot screen tilts up 180 degrees to accommodate selfies - despite the camera not being primarily targeted at vloggers or selfie enthusiasts (oddly, Olympus also has selfie-capable models). However, no EVF means no relief from glare-heavy environments. Its touchscreen supports focus selection and shutter activation, but the smaller control array nudges users into menus more frequently, impeding rapid manual adjustments.

Sensor Technology: Same Size, Different Generations and Resolution

Both models share a Four Thirds sensor footprint (~17.3x13 mm), but their sensor technologies and image quality performance diverge notably.

The Olympus E-M1 II features a 20.4MP CMOS sensor without an anti-aliasing (AA) filter, maximizing sharpness at the cost of potential moiré artifacts under specific conditions. Combined with its TruePic VIII processor, it delivers up to ISO 25600 native sensitivity and an impressive dynamic range – DxOMark rates it with a decent 12.8 EV range and superior low-light ISO performance (~1312 score), surpassing many APS-C rivals of its time.

The Panasonic GF7 opts for a 16MP CMOS sensor with an AA filter, slightly lowering ultimate resolution but aiming for smooth, moiré-free images. Its Venus Engine is dated compared to Olympus’s image processor, leading to comparatively less dynamic range and noise handling. While raw shooting is supported, data throughput and image fidelity generally cater more to casual photographers unhappy with compressed JPEG output.

The resulting images reinforce this: Olympus yields richer details, especially in shadows and highlights, while Panasonic keeps colors pleasing but softer. Both cameras retain the advantages of the MFT crop factor (2.0x effective focal length multiplier), enabling smaller lenses and reach-friendly telephoto shooting.

Autofocus Performance: A World Apart

Autofocus is a critical metric, especially as cameras diversify from stills to increasingly hybrid applications.

The Olympus E-M1 II uses a hybrid AF system with 121 phase-detect and contrast-detection points, delivering fast and accurate autofocus tracking even in challenging conditions. The inclusion of face detection and continuous autofocus modes assisted by the powerful TruePic VIII processor allows for tracking moving subjects with precision. While not sporting animal eye AF, the 121-point layout covers most of the frame, substantially aiding wildlife and sports photographers.

The GF7, in contrast, relies solely on 23-point contrast-detection autofocus without phase detection. This results in slower and less reliable focus hunts in low light or with moving subjects. Face detection support helps portraits but performance is best in bright, static scenarios.

For sports or wildlife, the Olympus’s autofocus is clearly the superior choice - tracking fast-paced action with a burst rate up to 60fps (electronic shutter enabled), a game-changer for serious shooters. Meanwhile, the Panasonic’s modest 5.8fps burst and slower AF make it more suited to everyday snaps or casual travel photography.

Image Stabilization: Olympus’s 5-Axis Advantage

The Olympus E-M1 II shines with its advanced in-body 5-axis image stabilization system. This sensor-shift mechanism compensates for shake in pitch, yaw, roll, and translational movement, enabling handheld shooting at slow shutter speeds impossible for most competitors. This is particularly beneficial for macro photography, low light exposures, and video work.

The Panasonic GF7 offers no in-body stabilization, expecting users to rely on lens-based OIS or tripods. This limits handheld flexibility and demands extra care in shooting, especially at telephoto or macro ranges.

From practical experience, Olympus’s system yields consistently sharper images in challenging situations without having to crank up ISO - a valued feature for any field or pro shooter.

Shooting Versatility Across Photography Genres

Let’s look at how each performs in distinct photography disciplines.

Portrait Photography

The Olympus E-M1 II impresses with its 121-point AF and effective face detection. Eye AF isn't implemented, but the system remains reliable for capturing crisp skin tones and expressions with rich detail. The absence of an AA filter helps emphasize bokeh edges with strong microcontrast, beneficial for portraiture.

The GF7’s weaker autofocus and absence of an EVF make it less comfortable for deliberate portrait work. Skin tones are nicely rendered, yet edge rendering appears smoother due to AA filtering, which might reduce the character some portrait photographers seek.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range and resolution are king here. Olympus’s superior sensor dynamic range preserves highlight and shadow details on expansive scenes beautifully. Weather sealing allows shooting in damp, dusty, or windy environments confidently. The articulating screen and exposure bracketing features facilitate creative compositions.

The Panasonic GF7’s softer files and limited dynamic range restrict post-processing latitude. Its lack of sealing makes outdoor adventures riskier. However, casual landscape shooters on a budget will find it capable enough in good light.

Wildlife Photography

For wildlife, autofocus speed, burst rates, and reach matter most. Olympus’s autofocus system excels at locking onto erratic subjects, while 60fps burst rates with electronic shutter capture fleeting moments solidly.

Panasonic’s GF7 can’t keep pace; slower AF hinders reliable focus, and the maximum 5.8fps burst risks missing quick action. Its compact size may help with stealth but overall performance limits serious wildlife usage.

Sports Photography

Fast-moving athletes demand speedy autofocus and high frame rates. Olympus holds the advantage again, especially in perfectly exposed daylight or reasonably lit stadiums because of its high max shutter speed (1/8000s) and impressive continuous burst.

GF7’s more limited shutter speeds (max 1/16000s mechanical shutter, no electronic shutter) and slower autofocus restricts sports shooters to static or non-demanding subjects.

Street Photography

The smaller, lighter GF7 shines here for discreetness, especially in urban settings where attention is best avoided. Its tilting screen enables candid angles unseen by subjects. Olympus’s larger form factor and distinct shutter sounds might be less subtle, though the silent electronic shutter mode offers an alternative.

Low light capabilities favor Olympus for ambient-lit street scenes. GF7 users will confront noise sooner.

Macro Photography

Olympus’s image stabilization and articulating screen lend themselves well to macro work, allowing steady handheld shooting at close focus distances with creative perspectives. Its extensive compatible lens lineup, including Olympus’s excellent macro lenses, benefits enthusiasts immensely.

GF7 is limited by lack of sensor stabilization and slower AF but remains feasible for casual close-ups, especially with stabilized lenses.

Night and Astro Photography

Noise handling and longer exposures rule night photography. Olympus delivers here with a clean ISO performance and in-body stabilization enabling low ISO handheld shots. Its shutter speeds down to 60 seconds combined with interleaved bracketing modes aid star trail or milky way capture.

The GF7’s lack of in-body stabilizer and narrower dynamic range mean noisier images at high ISO, making astrophotography more challenging.

Video Capabilities

Olympus leads again with 4K UHD recording at up to 30fps, microphone and headphone jacks for serious audio monitoring, and advanced stabilization delivering smooth handheld footage.

The Panasonic GF7 maxes out at Full HD 1080p (60fps) with no audio input options and no in-body stabilization. Amateur home video and social media clips are possible but it’s no filmmaker’s choice.

Lens Ecosystem and Accessory Compatibility

Both cameras employ the Micro Four Thirds mount, giving access to over 100 lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, Sigma, and others.

Olympus E-M1 II benefits from Olympus’s premium PRO lens series - high-quality zooms and primes tailored for the system alongside Panasonic’s excellent optics. The E-M1 II’s faster AF and stabilization elevate lens performance.

GF7 users can tap into the same vast selection, though the camera’s limitations blunt the potential gains. Lens stabilization or wide apertures help compensate for the absence of IBIS, but professional-grade glass may be overkill for casual shooters.

Battery Life and Storage

Olympus offers a reasonably strong 350 shot battery life - typical of its class, though heavy use of EVF and burst shooting drains power. The dual SD card slots open flexible backup or overflow options, critical for professional workflows.

GF7’s 230 shots per charge fit casual users; single SD slot limits file management flexibility but simplifies operations.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Wireless builds are similar but scaled: both have built-in Wi-Fi; the Panasonic GF7 adds NFC for easy pairing. Neither supports Bluetooth in these respective models, predictable for cameras launched years ago.

Both feature USB (Olympus USB 3.0; Panasonic USB 2.0) and HDMI output, enabling tethering or external monitoring/video capture. Olympus’s USB 3.0 promises faster data transfer beneficial for high-res video workflows.

Price-to-Performance Ratio: What Are You Really Buying?

As of their respective launches and considering current used/grey market prices, the Olympus E-M1 Mark II sits in the pro mirrorless bracket (~$1700 body-only) while the Panasonic GF7 targets entry-level buyers (~$308 at launch).

You pay a hefty premium for Olympus’s professional features - robust build, fast and accurate AF, stabilization, weather sealing, 4K video, and extensive customization. If you’re a serious enthusiast or pro shooting demanding subjects or in hostile environments, this investment yields substantial returns in image quality and reliability.

For newcomers or photographers on a budget who prioritize ease of use, size, and casual living documentation, the GF7 is compelling, offering solid JPEG quality, straightforward operation, and a lightweight form.

Specialty Genre Scorecard: Who Excels Where?

Here’s a distilled genre-specific performance overview that can simplify decision-making:

Olympus E-M1 II shines in: Wildlife, Sports, Landscape, Portrait, Night/Astro, Video, Macro, Professional uses. It is versatile enough to be the sole camera system for enthusiasts needing full control and durability.

Panasonic GF7 excels at: Street photography (discreet, lightweight), Travel (small size), Entry-level portraits and casual snapshots.

In the Field: Sample Images Showcasing Real-World Differences

Quite often, specs alone don’t tell the full story. Reviewing side-by-side sample photos taken with both cameras under similar conditions reveals practical output quality.

Olympus E M1 II front Olympus E M1 II screen back Panasonic GF7 front Panasonic GF7 screen back

Notice subtle differences in detail resolution, tonal gradation, and noise control. The Olympus files withstand closer scrutiny with richer textures and more nuanced color fidelity, while the GF7 images are smoother, with less microdetail but vibrant enough for social sharing.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Choose Which?

Choose the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II if:

• You demand pro-grade performance in autofocus, image quality, and durability
• You shoot fast action like sports or wildlife
• You require weather sealing and robust build for harsh conditions
• You value 4K video with professional controls and audio options
• You’re ready to invest in a system that supports serious photography projects
• You want extensive lens and accessory compatibility with premium glass

Choose the Panasonic Lumix GF7 if:

• You’re a beginner or enthusiast on a tight budget
• Portability and discreet shooting take precedence over ultimate image quality
• You mainly shoot casual portraits, street, or travel photography
• You prefer simplicity over control complexity
• You want a lightweight camera to slip into your bag without fuss

Summary: Two Cameras, Divergent Paths on MFT Terrain

The Olympus E-M1 Mark II and Panasonic GF7 illustrate the broad spectrum of Micro Four Thirds cameras - from professional-grade tools to accessible entry-level gear. Testing both extensively, I can attest to Olympus’s exceptional capabilities in demanding scenarios, supported by cutting-edge AF, stabilization, and build quality. Meanwhile, Panasonic’s GF7 offers a nimble, approachable package for those just starting out or wanting a compact second camera.

Their shared heritage of the MFT mount means lens investment carries over, but the E-M1 II truly unlocks the system’s potential. Although the GF7 might feel like “training wheels,” it still delivers worthy photos in well-lit environments.

Ultimately, your choice hinges on how serious you are about photography and which environments you plan to tackle. Both cameras earned their places, just in very different leagues.

With this comparison, I hope you feel equipped to make the best-informed decision tailored to your photographic aspirations. If you want to dig deeper, I recommend trying both in person and testing them with lenses you own or plan to purchase - there’s no substitute for hands-on experience in choosing gear that fits like a glove.

Happy shooting!