Olympus OM-D E-M10 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40: An Expert Comparison for Photography Enthusiasts

Selecting the ideal camera can be a complex journey, particularly when choosing between two models as distinctly different as the Olympus OM-D E-M10 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40. Each fulfills very different photographic ambitions yet shares the common aim of delivering enjoyable image making. Having logged extensive hands-on testing with both mirrorless and fixed-lens superzoom cameras over the years, I am excited to walk you through a comprehensive, real-world comparison of these two, illuminating their strengths, compromises, and ultimate value for photographers.

From sensor technology and autofocus prowess to ergonomics and genre suitability, this head-to-head dives into what you can truly expect in the field - beyond spec sheets and marketing. Whether you are a budding enthusiast seeking creative control, or an all-in-one traveler craving versatility with minimal fuss, this analysis will help clarify which camera may best support your photographic goals.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

The Olympus OM-D E-M10 boldly steps into the entry-level mirrorless realm with SLR-style styling and classic ergonomics, while the Panasonic LZ40 adopts a bridge camera form factor marrying an enormous zoom range into a fixed-lens setup. The initial tactile experience highlights the core philosophies of their design.

At 119x82x46 mm and a light 396 g, the OM-D E-M10 is compact and pocketable for a mirrorless camera, accommodating enthusiast shooters who value portability without sacrificing control. Its magnesium alloy chassis feels reassuringly sturdy, even if it lacks weather sealing - an aspect to consider if you often shoot outdoors in challenging conditions.

Conversely, the Panasonic LZ40's larger and heavier body (126x87x94 mm, 524 g) is typical of bridge cameras designed to replace a DSLR and an extensive range of lenses. The fixed 42× zoom lens adds considerably to the bulk, but this integration actually boosts travel convenience by negating lens swaps entirely. However, the plastic-heavy build, while strategically saving cost and weight, offers less durability and refinement compared to the Olympus.

For photographers who prize nimble handling and refined control dials, the E-M10's smaller size combined with thoughtfully laid-out buttons provides a much more engaging experience. The LZ40, meanwhile, caters to users favouring simplicity - a grab-and-shoot philosophy without worrying about multiple lenses or elaborate settings.

Top Controls and User Interface: Command Central for Creatives

Control placement and accessibility often shape a camera’s daily enjoyment. After spending several shooting sessions with both cameras, I found their top decks reflect their target users distinctly.

Olympus equips the E-M10 with dedicated dials for shutter speed and aperture, alongside customizable function buttons, enabling photographers to make real-time adjustments smoothly. The electronic viewfinder (EVF) is critical here, complementing tactile dials by providing instant exposure previews. Its 1440k dot resolution EVF impressively facilitates confident manual exposure practice even in bright sunlight.

The LZ40 dispenses with an EVF altogether, relying on its 3-inch fixed TFT LCD, which, despite a modest resolution of 460k dots, remains the sole method for composing and reviewing shots. The limited controls - mainly a mode dial and zoom lever - reflect its ease-of-use ethos, making it a point-and-shoot camera despite the SLR-like styling.

This difference in user interface is a key deciding point: If you prefer extensive manual control, exposure mode flexibility, and physical dials for expressive shooting, the Olympus emerges as the clear choice. If, instead, you appreciate simplicity and first-time usability without worrying about settings intricacies, Panasonic offers a pragmatic solution.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of Photography

One of the most significant differentiators lies in sensor technology. The Olympus E-M10 utilizes a 16MP Four Thirds Live MOS sensor with a generous 17.3 x 13 mm sensor area, while the Panasonic LZ40 is outfitted with a smaller 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor, measuring only 6.17 x 4.55 mm. This size difference translates to considerable impacts in image fidelity, noise levels, and dynamic range.

The Four Thirds sensor in the E-M10, despite being smaller than APS-C and full-frame variants, is well-regarded for balancing compactness and image quality. Coupled with Olympus’s TruePic VII image processor, it produces images with excellent color depth (22.8 bits per DxOMark) and a solid dynamic range of 12.3 EV, providing ample latitude to recover shadows and highlights - essential for landscape enthusiasts. Its native ISO range spans from 200 to 25,600, with usable high ISO performance supported up to ISO 1600-3200, allowing cleaner images in dim conditions.

In contrast, the Panasonic LZ40’s 20MP CCD sensor falls behind in measurable image quality metrics. The tiny sensor's limited physical size restricts light-gathering, resulting in higher noise at ISO 400 and above. Its dynamic range is also compromised, making recovery in post-production more limited and resulting in flatter images under challenging lighting. Additionally, the LZ40 lacks RAW support, further restricting creative control for photographers wanting to push exposure and color corrections.

Both cameras employ a native Bayer color filter array and have an anti-alias filter, with Olympus’s sensor technology benefiting from years of refinement designed for mirrorless photography. I will note, however, that the LZ40's sensor resolution is technically higher, yet this is offset by the classic CCD noise profile and the sensor’s limited size.

Behind the Lens: Optics, Zoom, and Stabilization

When considering lens quality and zoom flexibility, the cameras again demonstrate their design intents.

The Olympus OM-D E-M10's micro four thirds mount opens a world of possibilities with over 100 lenses compatible, spanning premium primes to high-quality zooms. This adaptability is a massive asset for photographers keen to experiment with focal lengths, apertures, and optical quality, securing precise control over depth of field and bokeh quality. Plus, Olympus includes sensor-based 3-axis image stabilization in the E-M10 body, reducing camera shake for handheld shots, furthered by stabilized M.Zuiko lenses, delivering crisp images - even in lower light.

The Panasonic LZ40 features an integrated 22-924 mm equivalent (42× zoom) lens, fantastic for reaching distant subjects without changing optics. This impressive zoom range is unique in the compact class and makes it extremely versatile for travel and wildlife where changing lenses is cumbersome. It also provides optical image stabilization, which indeed helps compensate for shake at telephoto lengths.

However, the wide aperture range of f/3.0-6.5 impacts low light and portrait bokeh capabilities negatively - shallow depth of field is challenging to achieve, making subject separation less dramatic compared to Olympus with faster lenses.

Autofocus System: Precision and Speed in Every Snap

Autofocus (AF) performance is critical across genres, particularly for action, wildlife, and event photography.

The Olympus E-M10 employs an 81-point contrast-detection AF system with advanced face detection, eye AF (though limited compared to modern standards), and continuous AF capabilities that work impressively well in live view and EVF modes. While lacking phase detection, the speed and accuracy remain solid for most applications, especially static and portrait photography. In my extensive testing with moving subjects, the tracking AF performs reliably within reasonable limits - though not league-leading among newer mirrorless AF systems - helping capture fleeting moments with confidence.

By contrast, the LZ40 offers a much simpler AF setup with only 9 focus points reliant solely on contrast detection. While face detection is present, the lack of phase detection and fewer focus points impairs speed and tracking accuracy in demanding scenarios. The single continuous shooting speed of 1 fps and no dedicated AF tracking modes further limits its usefulness for fast-moving subjects like sports or detailed wildlife behavior.

For critical AF needs, particularly in dynamic environments or sports, Olympus provides a solid advantage, whereas Panasonic targets casual photography and convenience.

Displays and Viewfinders: Seeing Your Shot Clearly

The interface for composing and reviewing images is another vital user touchpoint.

The Olympus E-M10 sports a 3-inch tilting touchscreen LCD with 1,037k-dot resolution, which offers excellent sharpness and viewing angles. The tilting mechanism facilitates shooting from low or high angles without awkward body contortions, something seriously appreciated during studio or street sessions. The touch interface augments menu navigation and focusing precision with tap-to-focus capabilities.

Additionally, the E-M10's electronic viewfinder (EVF) delivers 100% coverage and fine detail, crucial for shooting in bright conditions where LCD glare can hinder composition.

The Panasonic LZ40’s fixed 3-inch TFT LCD with a much lower 460k-dot resolution is serviceable but less refined, and the absence of any viewfinder may frustrate users relying on eye-level framing or in very bright environments. There is no touchscreen functionality, meaning all operations depend on buttons and dials, slowing some interactions.

Video Capabilities: Casual Clips vs Creative Filmmaking

Video has become an essential feature even for stills photographers, and here the cameras differ markedly.

The Olympus E-M10 records Full HD 1920x1080p at 30 fps with H.264 compression, delivering clean footage with reasonable detail and natural colors. It lacks 4K, but given its release period, this resolution matches enthusiast expectations. Unfortunately, it does not have microphone or headphone jacks, limiting audio options. However, the built-in sensor stabilization shines in handheld video, noticeably smoothing footage - a feature I find critical for run-and-gun shooters.

The Panasonic LZ40 is more modest, capped at HD 1280x720p at 30 fps, also in Motion JPEG format. This format produces larger files with less efficient compression and reduced quality. The LZ40 surprisingly includes a microphone port, a nice bonus for casual vloggers or sound-aware recording, though without a headphone out or advanced audio options. Absence of in-body stabilization results in noticeably wobblier handheld clips.

For aspiring videographers looking for quality HD video and stabilization, Olympus has a firm edge, while Panasonic serves casual recording needs.

Battery Performance and Storage: Power for All-Day Shooting

Battery endurance and storage flexibility often influence shooting experiences, especially on trips.

Both cameras utilize battery packs with roughly equivalent longevity at about 320 shots per charge, which is adequate for casual to moderate shooting days but may necessitate spares on longer excursions.

Storage-wise, Olympus supports SD/SDHC/SDXC cards but lacks dual slots - a typical limitation at this price. Panasonic also accepts those cards but includes internal memory storage as a backup, helpful in emergencies but limited in capacity.

Neither camera offers robust power management or USB charging, which feels dated today but was standard during their release era.

Real-World Photography Across Genres: Where Each Camera Shines

The ultimate test lies in practice - how these tools perform across different photographic disciplines.

Portrait Photography

The Olympus E-M10 impresses with nuanced color rendition and the ability to produce creamy bokeh thanks to interchangeable lenses and a sensor capable of creating shallow depth of field. Face and eye detection autofocus assists in maintaining sharp focus on subjects, producing natural skin tones even under varied lighting. I found the tilting touchscreen invaluable for directing focus while shooting portraits from creative angles.

The Panasonic LZ40, constrained by its smaller sensor and slow lens aperture at tele ends, delivers flatter portraits lacking background separation - acceptable only for casual snapshots. Its autofocus suffices for stationary subjects but lacks finesse for professional results.

Landscape Endeavors

Wide dynamic range and resolution are vital here. The E-M10’s Four Thirds sensor and 16MP output provide images rich in detail and tonality. This, paired with high-quality M.Zuiko lenses, results in outstanding landscapes with balanced highlights and shadows. However, the absence of weather sealing calls for caution in harsh environments.

The LZ40’s superzoom is attractive for reaching distant scenes but compromises sharpness and dynamic range, with more noise evident in shaded areas. Its lighter build offers less resilience outdoors.

Wildlife and Sports Shooting

Both cameras present significant compromises for fast-action photography. The Olympus’s 8 fps continuous shooting rate and tracking autofocus outperform the Panasonic’s single fps capacity and limited AF points. The OM-D’s micro four thirds lens options also allow for better telephoto reach and image quality.

While neither is a professional sports camera, the E-M10’s speed and control give it a definitive advantage capturing wildlife or athletes in motion.

Street and Travel Photography

The OM-D’s compact size, silent mode, EVF, and articulating touchscreen make it an enthusiastic street photographer’s tool, blending discretion with technical finesse.

Panasonic prioritizes all-in-one travel convenience with its extended zoom and resilient zoom lens. Despite bulkier handling, it eliminates lens changes and is intuitive for casual users.

Image Gallery: See for Yourself

Nothing beats sample images when judging real-world performance.

Olympus E M10 front Olympus E M10 screen back Panasonic LZ40 front Panasonic LZ40 screen back

This side-by-side illustrates Olympus’s superior sharpness, color fidelity, and low-light capabilities compared to the more limited, softer, noisier output from the Panasonic LZ40.

Summing It Up: Overall Performance and Value Ratings

The Olympus E-M10 and Panasonic LZ40 occupy different niches catered to contrasting user needs. Our experts subjected both to rigorous testing benchmarks across image quality, speed, handling, and feature sets.

The E-M10 scores impressively given its age, offering a well-balanced package suitable for photography enthusiasts eager to learn and grow. The LZ40 scores lower, reflecting its budget-friendly orientation and overall compromises.

Specialization Analysis: Which Camera Excels by Discipline?

It's helpful to consider how each camera performs relative to specific photographic genres:

• Portraits: Olympus dominates with superior apertures and AF
• Landscape: A clear win for Olympus due to sensor and lens quality
• Wildlife/Sports: Olympus performs better but is still limited
• Street: Olympus preferred for discretion and control
• Macro: Both limited; Olympus allows better manual focus and lens choice
• Night/Astro: Olympus with higher ISO and longer shutter support wins
• Video: Olympus favored for Full HD and stabilization
• Travel: Panasonic appeals for integrated zoom; Olympus for image quality
• Professional Use: Olympus’s RAW support and lens ecosystem favored

Final Recommendations: Matching Cameras to Photographers

Choose the Olympus OM-D E-M10 if you:

• Desire creative control with interchangeable lenses
• Prioritize image quality, dynamic range, and low-light performance
• Are interested in learning manual exposure and gaining experience
• Shoot portraits, landscapes, or street scenes seriously
• Need better video quality and stabilization
• Want a compact, well-made mirrorless system with room to grow

Choose the Panasonic Lumix LZ40 if you:

• Want an all-in-one travel companion with an extensive zoom range
• Prefer simplicity over complex manual controls
• Shoot mostly casual snapshots or family events
• Value zoom flexibility (22–924mm equivalent) without lens changes
• Have budget constraints around $200 range
• Don’t require RAW or advanced autofocus tracking

Experience-Backed Perspective

In my years of comparing cameras ranging from enthusiast mirrorless to superzoom compacts, I’ve learned that no single camera fits all. The Olympus OM-D E-M10 clearly targets enthusiasts who want foundational creative tools and excellent image quality in a portable package. The Panasonic LZ40, meanwhile, is designed to function as a convenient, do-it-all zoom camera for casual users prioritizing reach and ease.

While I’m impressed by the LZ40’s zoom potential for travel photography, its image quality compromises and lack of manual control limit artistic exploration. Olympus’s E-M10 remains relevant today as a capable entry point into interchangeable lens photography despite its age, especially considering the vast and affordable Micro Four Thirds ecosystem.

Given the prices at the time of release - $600 for Olympus vs $219 for Panasonic - your budget and intended use will guide which model better fits your lifestyle.

Closing Thoughts

Buying a camera is an investment in creative expression, and understanding your shooting habits and priorities is crucial. I hope this deep dive clarifies the strengths and trade-offs of the Olympus OM-D E-M10 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-LZ40. Whether you chase ultimate image quality and flexibility or crave an all-encompassing zoom with uncomplicated operation, both cameras serve distinct paths into the exciting world of photography.

Please feel free to reach out or dive into our other resources for more hands-on tests and tailored recommendations.

Safe shooting!