Comprehensive Comparison: Olympus OM-D E-M10 II vs Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ

Choosing the appropriate camera hinges on a multitude of factors spanning sensor technology, usability, optical capabilities, and intended photographic application. The Olympus OM-D E-M10 II and Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ represent two distinct archetypes within the brand’s lineup - the former a compact mirrorless interchangeable lens model targeting entry-level enthusiasts, the latter a long-zoom compact with a fixed lens optimized for convenience and reach. This detailed examination draws on extensive hands-on evaluation and objective analysis to illuminate their comparative strengths, weaknesses, and practical suitability across photographic genres and workflow requirements.

Design Philosophy and Ergonomics: SLR-Style Handling vs Compact Convenience

Olympus E-M10 II is designed as a traditional mirrorless camera embracing a retro SLR-style body layout. With dimensions of 120x83x47 mm and a weight of 390 grams, it balances portability with substantial grip presence, appealing to those who prefer direct tactile interaction. Its magnesium alloy chassis provides a durable feel, though weather-sealing is absent. The ergonomics facilitate single-hand operation reinforced by logically placed control dials and customizable buttons.

In contrast, the Olympus SP-820UZ, measuring 117x78x93 mm and weighing 485 grams, prioritizes pocketability albeit with a more substantial depth driven by the extended zoom lens barrel. Its compact design lacks a pronounced grip, reflecting its intended use as a grab-and-go superzoom camera rather than one designed for extensive handling repertoire. The fixed lens configuration inherently limits manual tactile control options.

Controls: The E-M10 II’s 81-point contrast-detection autofocus selection, tilting touchscreen, and dedicated exposure dials offer granular control well-suited for enthusiasts seeking manual override. Conversely, the SP-820UZ relies mainly on menu-driven interfaces without manual aperture or shutter priority modes, limiting precision user input.

Summary: For photographers who prioritize ergonomic fidelity and physical controls conducive to manual operation, the E-M10 II clearly offers a more sophisticated handling experience. The SP-820UZ’s interface, while straightforward, appeals strictly to casual users valuing simplicity and compactness.

Sensor and Image Quality: Micro Four Thirds Sensor Versus Small 1/2.3-Inch Sensor

The core technological distinction lies in the sensor format:

Technical Implications:
The Four Thirds sensor on the E-M10 II offers approximately eight times the surface area of the SP-820UZ’s 1/2.3" sensor. Larger sensor size directly correlates with potential improvements in dynamic range, color depth, and low-light performance due to larger photodiodes capturing more light information.

Real-World Performance:

• Dynamic Range: The E-M10 II exhibits a measured dynamic range exceeding 12 EV stops at base ISO, preserving highlight and shadow detail more effectively than the SP-820UZ’s more limited dynamic range (significantly less than 10 EV stops based on sensor class).
• Noise Performance: In ambient and low-light conditions, the E-M10 II maintains usable image quality up to ISO 3200 and even 6400 for web use, whereas the SP-820UZ’s noise becomes objectionable above ISO 800 due to its smaller sensor and higher pixel pitch.
• Color Depth: The Olympus E-M10 II’s 23.1-bit color depth translates to richer, nuanced skin tones and landscapes, an advantage for critical photography where color fidelity matters.

Lens Multiplier Factor:
The E-M10 II uses a Micro Four Thirds mount with a 2.1x crop factor influencing field-of-view calculations and lens choices, whereas the superzoom’s fixed lens inherently includes a 5.8x multiplier.

Conclusion: When image quality and sensor performance rank priority, the E-M10 II is the unequivocal superior option.

Optical Systems: Interchangeable Lens Versus Built-in Superzoom

Olympus E-M10 II: As a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera with support for Micro Four Thirds lenses - a massive ecosystem comprising over 100 native lenses - the E-M10 II offers remarkable optical flexibility. The lens mount architecture allows users to select prime lenses optimal for portraiture, high-resolution landscape work, low-light performance, macro photography, or telephoto reach. Optical quality varies depending on the lens employed but generally reflects superior glass performance above entry-level compact systems.

Olympus SP-820UZ: Features a fixed 22-896 mm (equivalent) 40x zoom lens with an aperture range of f/3.4–5.7, covering ultrawide to super-telephoto focal lengths in a single package. Its macro capability extends to 1 cm minimum focus distance, a notable feature for close-up shooting. However, the optical compromises commonly associated with such overextended zoom ranges include softness at extremes, barrel distortion, and limited low-light performance due to smaller maximum apertures.

Practical Notes:

• Portrait Photography: The E-M10 II combined with a fast prime (e.g., f/1.8 or wider) enables creamy bokeh and fine detail rendition in skin textures, facilitating professional-grade portraits. The fixed lens on the SP-820UZ, while versatile in focal length, struggles to isolate subjects artistically due to slow apertures and less control over depth of field.
• Landscape Photography: High-resolution lenses and the large sensor on the E-M10 II deliver superior edge-to-edge sharpness and dynamic range necessary for landscapes. The SP-820UZ’s zoom range offers framing convenience but compromises sharpness and dynamic range.
• Wildlife and Sports: The SP-820UZ’s 896 mm reach is appealing for distant subjects; however, limited autofocus sophistication and slow maximum apertures impact usability in action photography. The E-M10 II plus a telephoto lens providing fast autofocus and image stabilization is preferable for demanding wildlife and sports scenarios.

Autofocus Systems: Sophisticated Contrast-Detection vs Basic Contrast-Detection

The E-M10 II’s autofocus system leverages 81 detection points with face and eye-detection capabilities, critical for portrait work and moving subjects. Continuous autofocus and subject tracking are available, functioning reliably in varied lighting conditions, albeit not as fast as dedicated phase-detection systems found on more advanced models.

In contrast, the SP-820UZ employs basic contrast-detection AF with limited area selection and no continuous tracking. While adequate for static subjects, it struggles to maintain focus on fast-moving targets, impairing its effectiveness for sports and wildlife.

Image Stabilization: In-Body Versus None

The E-M10 II incorporates a notable sensor-based 5-axis image stabilization system that compensates for pitch, yaw, roll, and X/Y shift movements. This system significantly improves handheld low-light shooting and telephoto stability, increasing keeper rates and facilitating slower shutter speeds without blur.

Conversely, the SP-820UZ lacks image stabilization altogether, relying mainly on shutter speed and steady handling - an evident disadvantage when shooting telephoto or macro sequences handheld.

Display and Viewfinder: Tilting Touchscreen and Electronic Viewfinder vs Fixed LCD Only

The E-M10 II’s 3-inch tilting touchscreen enhances compositional versatility, particularly for low and high-angle shooting. Touch control expedites AF point selection and menu navigation.

The built-in EVF delivers a bright, clear preview with accurate framing and exposure representation, a boon in bright sunlight when LCDs suffer from glare.

The SP-820UZ’s fixed LCD lacks touchscreen functionality and has lower resolution, offering a less refined user experience. The absence of a viewfinder necessitates reliance on the rear LCD in all shooting conditions, which can hinder usability in direct sunlight.

Continuous Shooting and Shutter Speed Performance

• Olympus E-M10 II: Offers an 8 fps mechanical continuous shooting rate, adequate for capturing moderate action sequences. The shutter speed ranges from 60 seconds to 1/4000 second, providing versatility for long-exposure and daylight freeze-frame shots.

• Olympus SP-820UZ: Features a slower continuous rate of 2 fps with shutter speeds limited from 4 seconds to 1/2000 second, restricting its ability to capture fast action and limiting creative long exposures outdoors.

The E-M10 II’s higher shutter speed ceiling and faster continuous shooting render it more capable for sports, wildlife, and dynamic subjects.

Video Capabilities: Full HD Versatility vs Basic HD Capture

The E-M10 II supports Full HD at 60 frames-per-second with higher-quality compression options and benefits from its in-body image stabilization during videography, contributing to smooth handheld footage. Lacking external microphone input limits audio quality enhancement options.

The SP-820UZ records 1080p only at 30 fps without stabilization, restricting creative control and video smoothness at telephoto lengths.

Battery Life and Storage

• E-M10 II: Rated for approximately 320 shots per charge, standard for mirrorless systems with electronic viewfinders and live view. It uses a proprietary BLS-50 battery pack and supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards.

• SP-820UZ: Battery life data is unspecified, typical of compact superzooms relying on fixed rechargeable lithium-ion batteries. Storage support includes SD/SDHC/SDXC cards.

In extended shooting scenarios or travel photography, the E-M10 II requires spare batteries; the lack of extended battery data for the SP-820UZ mandates caution for prolonged use.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

The E-M10 II includes built-in Wi-Fi for remote control, image transfer, and integration within digital workflows. It supports USB 2.0 and HDMI output, enabling tethered shooting and external display options.

The SP-820UZ lacks any wireless connectivity or HDMI ports, limiting remote control capabilities and file management conveniences.

Comprehensive Use-Case Analysis Across Photography Disciplines

Olympus E M10 II front Olympus E M10 II screen back Olympus SP 820UZ front Olympus SP 820UZ screen back

Portrait Photography

• E-M10 II: The large sensor, 81-point AF with eye detection, and fast prime lens options afford superior skin tone rendering and bokeh control. Fine facial details and background separation elevate the portrait experience.
• SP-820UZ: Limited aperture and smaller sensor hinder subject isolation and noise control at indoor settings. Face detection is basic, and bokeh effects are minimal.

Landscape Photography

• E-M10 II: Robust dynamic range and lens versatility excel for detailed, wide-angle imagery with vivid tonal nuances. Weather-sealing absence is noted but less critical for controlled environments.
• SP-820UZ: Fixed zoom provides framing flexibility, but image quality is compromised by sensor noise and lens sharpness. Lack of a high-resolution EVF or advanced exposure modes limits compositional accuracy.

Wildlife Photography

• E-M10 II: Moderate crop factor favorable with telephoto optics; 5-axis stabilization enables handheld tele shots. AF tracking is serviceable but not top-tier for fast wildlife.
• SP-820UZ: 40x zoom offers reach but autofocus is sluggish and OSS absent. Image quality falls short under less-than-ideal lighting.

Sports Photography

• E-M10 II: 8 fps shooting speed and continuous AF provide moderate performance for casual sports. Limitations appear against fast professional sports requiring higher frame rates.
• SP-820UZ: Slow shooting speed and weak AF system render it suboptimal.

Street Photography

• SP-820UZ: Its compactness and extensive zoom range support candid shooting without lens change, useful for discreet telephoto capture.
• E-M10 II: Slightly larger but with EVF and customizable controls enabling efficient street composition once accustomed to size.

Macro Photography

• SP-820UZ: Impressive 1 cm minimum focusing distance useful for close-ups but optically limited by superzoom lens softness.
• E-M10 II: Paired with dedicated macro primes, delivers superior resolution, focus precision, and image stabilization for macro work.

Night/Astro Photography

• E-M10 II: High ISO capabilities combined with long shutter speeds (up to 60 seconds) and stabilization facilitate astrophotography with low noise and high detail.
• SP-820UZ: Limited ISO range, slower shutter speed max of 4 seconds, and no stabilization reduce effectiveness.

Video Usage

• E-M10 II: Offers professional-style video capture with full HD at 60p, IBIS, and manual exposure. Best suited for hybrid shooters.
• SP-820UZ: Sufficient for casual video but lacks versatility, stabilization, and external mic input.

Travel Photography

• SP-820UZ: Flexible all-in-one zoom and compact design serve casual travelers prioritizing convenience.
• E-M10 II: Slightly bulkier but much better image quality and system adaptability rewarding more serious travel photographers willing to carry extra lenses and gear.

Professional Work

• E-M10 II: Supports raw format, manual controls, and workflow integration through Wi-Fi and HDMI. A reliable entry mirrorless for enthusiasts stepping into professional domains.
• SP-820UZ: Limited to JPEG, lacks advanced control, unsuitable for demanding workflows.

Performance Scores Breakdown

The E-M10 II outperforms the SP-820UZ decisively across imaging, handling, autofocus, and video categories. The superzoom’s niche appeal appears in telephoto reach and compact size, scoring lower in image quality and pro features.

Pricing and Value Proposition

While the SP-820UZ’s lower price reflects its entry-level fixed-lens design, the E-M10 II justifies its premium through substantially better image quality, manual control, and system expandability, offering greater long-term value for enthusiasts.

Final Recommendations

• For Enthusiasts and Semiprofessional Photographers: The Olympus OM-D E-M10 II is the clear choice, delivering superior sensor performance, interchangeable lens versatility, advanced autofocus, and robust video features. It adapts well to various photography disciplines, from portraits and landscapes to macro and night photography.

• For Casual Users Prioritizing Zoom Range and Simplicity: The Olympus Stylus SP-820UZ suits those seeking an all-in-one zoom tripod-free camera without the complexity or investment in interchangeable lenses. Ideal for travel snapshots and casual telephoto fun where image quality is a secondary consideration.

• For Specialized Applications:

  • Portrait and macro: E-M10 II + suitable lenses
  • Wildlife and sports action: E-M10 II with telephoto lenses; SP-820UZ acceptable only for short bursts in good light but limited overall
  • Travel and street shooting needing compact size: SP-820UZ preferred for stowability; E-M10 II for those tolerating larger systems

Concluding Thoughts

Evaluating the Olympus OM-D E-M10 II against the Stylus SP-820UZ underscores the broader tradeoffs between system cameras and fixed-lens compacts. The E-M10 II’s Micro Four Thirds sensor fundamentally elevates image quality and creative potential, while the SP-820UZ’s superzoom lens caters mainly to convenience and reach. The thoughtful implementation of controls, autofocus, stabilization, and connectivity on the E-M10 II firmly roots it as a versatile entry-level mirrorless contender with practical usability across myriad disciplines. In contrast, the SP-820UZ serves well as an accessible point-and-shoot with extensive zoom but limited artistic flexibility.

Prospective buyers must carefully consider their priorities: image quality, manual control, and professional workflow integration versus simplicity, affordability, and one-lens solution convenience.

This comprehensive analysis aims to inform your decision by thoroughly dissecting technical, operational, and creative facets drawn from extensive testing experience with both cameras in real-world photographic conditions.