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Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic LX100

Portability
54
Imaging
61
Features
93
Overall
73
Olympus OM-D E-M1X front
 
Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX100 front
Portability
83
Imaging
50
Features
73
Overall
59

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic LX100 Key Specs

Olympus E-M1X
(Full Review)
  • 20MP - Four Thirds Sensor
  • 3" Fully Articulated Display
  • ISO 200 - 25600
  • Sensor based 5-axis Image Stabilization
  • 1/8000s Maximum Shutter
  • 4096 x 2160 video
  • Micro Four Thirds Mount
  • 997g - 144 x 147 x 75mm
  • Announced January 2019
  • Earlier Model is Olympus E-M1 II
Panasonic LX100
(Full Review)
  • 13MP - Four Thirds Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 200 - 25600
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 3840 x 2160 video
  • 24-75mm (F1.7-2.8) lens
  • 393g - 115 x 66 x 55mm
  • Revealed September 2014
  • New Model is Panasonic LX100 II
Snapchat Adds Watermarks to AI-Created Images

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic LX100: An Authoritative Comparison for Enthusiasts and Professionals

Selecting a camera is an investment in creative capability and technical workflow. In this detailed comparison, we analyze two markedly different but highly capable instruments from Olympus and Panasonic: the Olympus OM-D E-M1X, a professional-grade Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera, and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX100, a large-sensor compact camera. Both target photography enthusiasts but cater to different priorities and usage scenarios.

Drawing on extensive hands-on testing and practical shooting experience, this article systematically explores the strengths and limitations of each model across key photographic disciplines, technical specifications, and real-world user workflows. The goal is to provide a granular understanding of how these cameras perform under various photographic stresses and environments, helping you identify the ideal tool for your photographic vision and budget.

First Impressions: Size, Handling, and Ergonomics

In professional and enthusiast photography, physical ergonomics and control layout often influence daily usability as much as sensor performance or autofocus capabilities. Here, the two cameras differ fundamentally in design philosophy and intended operational environments.

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic LX100 size comparison

The Olympus E-M1X is unmistakably large and rugged, designed around a dual-grip SLR-style body that prioritizes stability and extensive control. With dimensions of approximately 144 x 147 x 75 mm and a weight close to 1 kilogram (997g), it borders on being a digital workhorse rather than a pocketable camera. Its weight and size accommodate dual batteries, extensive weather sealing, and an abundance of physical buttons that are ideally suited for intensive fieldwork, especially under adverse environmental conditions.

In contrast, the Panasonic LX100 fits into a compact body measuring only 115 x 66 x 55 mm and weighs a mere 393 grams. This size reduction is achieved by integrating a fixed lens and omitting extensive environmental sealing. Its design favors portability and spontaneous shooting, making it a compelling companion for street photographers and travelers who prioritize discretion and light packing.

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic LX100 top view buttons comparison

From the top view, the E-M1X reveals a packed interface of dials and customizable buttons, reflecting a highly tactile, manual-control oriented design that appeals to photographers accustomed to concentrated, detailed input configurations. The LX100's top controls are less extensive but retain a dedicated aperture ring and shutter speed dial, a valuable ergonomic feature for photographers who favor direct manual exposure adjustments.

Summary:

  • E-M1X: Ergonomically optimized for professional use with extensive controls and robust handling.
  • LX100: Compact, minimalist design emphasizing portability without sacrificing essential manual controls.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Potential

Sensor performance forms the quantitative core of any camera's imaging prowess. Both cameras utilize Four Thirds sensor technology, but they differ significantly in sensor resolution, processing architecture, and consequent image quality characteristics.

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic LX100 sensor size comparison

  • Olympus E-M1X: Features a 20MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor with a 17.4 x 13 mm physical size, paired with dual TruePic VIII processors that enhance processing speed and noise reduction performance. It includes an optical low-pass filter (anti-aliasing filter), which slightly dampens the highest possible resolution but improves artifact suppression.

  • Panasonic LX100: Utilizes a slightly larger-format Four Thirds CMOS sensor (17.3 x 13 mm) with a lower 13MP resolution. It also introduces an anti-alias filter but relies on the older Venus Engine processor from 2014. Its sensor emphasizes quality over quantity in megapixels, balancing low light sensitivity and resolution.

Image quality differences and implications:

  • Resolution: The E-M1X’s 20MP sensor offers higher resolution output (5184 x 3888 pixels) with potential for cropping or large format prints, benefiting landscape and studio portrait photographers. The LX100's 13MP sensor (4112 x 3088 pixels) yields files adequate for most casual to semi-professional uses but less flexible for aggressive cropping.

  • Dynamic Range & Noise: Despite the Olympus sensor’s modern processor, both sensors share similar physical size constraints that limit dynamic range and low-light performance relative to APS-C and full-frame cameras. However, the E-M1X's newer sensor architecture and dual processors provide a modest advantage in dynamic range capture and noise suppression above ISO 3200.

  • Color Rendition: Both cameras support raw image capture, enabling full dynamic post-production control, although the Olympus provides more flexible in-camera white balance bracketing options, beneficial for critical color work.

Practical takeaway: The E-M1X is oriented toward higher resolution and nuanced image quality under demanding conditions, while the LX100 favors compactness with capable but more modest imaging specifications.

Autofocus Systems – Precision, Speed, and Tracking

Successful capture of fleeting moments in wildlife or sports, or the precise focusing required in portraits and macro scenarios, depend heavily on autofocus (AF) performance. Our tests focused on algorithm responsiveness, accuracy, and tracking ability under various lighting and subject conditions.

  • Olympus E-M1X Autofocus: Equipped with a hybrid autofocus system combining fast phase-detection and contrast-detection points. It offers 121 focus points (number of cross-type points is unspecified but predominantly contrast-based), coupled with face detection and full touch AF support. Importantly, it features continuous AF, tracking, and selective AF modes optimized by the dual-processor design, enabling burst capture at up to 60 fps (electronic shutter silent shutter speeds also up to 1/32000 sec).

  • Panasonic LX100 Autofocus: Features 49 contrast autofocus points with no phase-detection AF implementation, no animal eye-detection, but includes face detection and autofocus tracking. Continuous shooting peaks at 11 fps, aligned with its compact camera role.

Performance insights:

  • Speed: The E-M1X autofocus system is significantly faster and more reliable in acquiring focus, particularly for moving subjects, due to phase detection capabilities and advanced processors.

  • Tracking: Olympus's tracking algorithms are more sophisticated, offering better subject retention for wildlife and sports scenarios. The LX100’s contrast-based AF occasionally hunts in low contrast or low light.

  • Manual focus assistance: Both cameras support manual focus with magnification and focus peaking, but the E-M1X provides finer-grained control and customizable response, useful for precise macro and portrait work.

Build Quality, Weather Sealing, and Durability

Reliability in tough outdoor environments or demanding professional assignments is paramount. Build materials, sealing, and structural design determine operational longevity and consistency.

  • E-M1X: The body is constructed with a magnesium alloy frame and comprehensive environmental sealing rated against dust, splash, and freeze-proof conditions (no full waterproof, shockproof, or crushproof ratings). The dual battery system ensures extended shooting periods without compromising ruggedness.

  • LX100: Does not feature environmental sealing, uses a more plastic-heavy body typical of compact cameras, and thus is more vulnerable to adverse weather and physical shocks.

The E-M1X’s robust build and weather resistance provide a clear advantage for field photography in challenging climates such as landscapes, wildlife, and outdoor sports.

LCD Screens and Electronic Viewfinders: Interface and Usability

High-quality displays and viewfinders with accurate color rendition and resolution are essential for critical composition, focus confirmation, and menu navigation.

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic LX100 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

  • E-M1X: Equipped with a fully articulating 3-inch touchscreen LCD at 1037k-dot resolution. The articulating mechanism offers versatile composition angles, especially valuable for macro or unconventional perspectives. The OLED electronic viewfinder (EVF) features a resolution of 2360k dots with 0.74x magnification and 100% coverage, providing a sharp, lag-free preview with accurate color representation.

  • LX100: Includes a 3-inch fixed LCD with 921k dots, offering less resolution and no articulation. Its OVF is higher resolution (2764k dots) and nearly equal magnification (0.7x) with 100% coverage, giving a bright and detailed view. However, its smaller size and fixed LCD may restrict flexibility in awkward shooting environments.

Both cameras incorporate touch focus and touch shutter functionality, although the E-M1X provides superior overall LCD performance and articulation.

Lens Compatibility and Focal Length Versatility

System extensibility via lenses dictates creative flexibility and long-term adaptability.

  • Olympus E-M1X: Uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, offering one of the most mature and extensive lens ecosystems with over 100 lenses available, covering primes, zooms, super-telephoto, and specialty optics such as tilt-shifts and macro lenses. The 2.0x crop factor relative to full-frame means a 25mm lens gives equivalent 50mm field of view, advantageous for telephoto reach but limiting in wide-angle.

  • Panasonic LX100: Features a fixed Leica DC Vario-Summilux 24-75mm f/1.7-2.8 zoom lens (equivalent to 24-75mm full-frame), delivering fast apertures for a broad range from wide-angle to short telephoto. Its macro focusing distance of 3cm is commendable for close-up work within the compact form factor but less flexible than interchangeable lenses.

Implication: E-M1X is unmistakably the system camera designed for modularity and adaptability across genres, while the LX100 is a high-quality all-in-one solution prioritizing convenience over expandability.

Battery Life and Storage

Reliable power and data storage capacity are crucial for uninterrupted shooting, especially in professional workloads.

  • Olympus E-M1X: Employs a built-in dual battery system capable of approximately 870 shots per charge under CIPA standards, a substantial advantage for extended shooting sessions. Dual SD card slots enable redundant or overflow storage, critical for professional safeguards.

  • Panasonic LX100: Uses a single battery pack rated for roughly 300 shots, with one SD card slot only, matching expectations for a compact camera but limiting for prolonged shooting or failsafe file management.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Modern cameras benefit from integrated wireless capabilities facilitating image transfer and remote operation.

  • E-M1X: Supports built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth, enabling contemporary networking with mobile devices or cloud services. USB-PD compatibility supports charging via external power banks or laptops.

  • LX100: Supports built-in Wi-Fi and NFC but lacks Bluetooth. USB 2.0 connectivity is present but limited compared to the E-M1X’s USB-PD fast charging.

Evaluations Across Photography Genres

Understanding each camera’s utility across photographic disciplines enables selection tailored to specific needs.

Portrait Photography

  • E-M1X: High-resolution sensor combined with fast contrast and phase detection AF, plus effective face-detection capabilities, provide accurate focusing on eyes and faces even in challenging lighting. The articulated screen aids in creative portrait angles. The camera’s excellent dynamic range captures skin tones with subtlety. The Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem offers many fast-aperture primes for beautiful bokeh.

  • LX100: The fast fixed zoom lens (f/1.7-2.8) excels in low light and shallow depth of field for portraits. However, the lower resolution sensor limits cropping and fine detail extraction. Autofocus is less precise but face detection is adequate for casual or travel portraiture.

Recommendation: Olympus E-M1X for professional portraiture and nuanced skin tone rendition; LX100 for high-quality on-the-go portraits.

Landscape Photography

  • E-M1X: Superior resolution and dynamic range combined with weather sealing favor outdoor landscape work. The expanded lens selection spans ultra-wide to telephoto angles with high image quality. The articulating touchscreen and robust build withstand rugged conditions.

  • LX100: Offers excellent image quality for a compact, but limited zoom range and fixed lens limit versatility. Environmental sealing is absent, deterring use in harsh conditions.

Wildlife Photography

  • E-M1X: Exceptional continuous shooting speed up to 60 fps, rapid autofocus with tracking capabilities, and long telephoto lens options make it the clear choice for wildlife capture. The durable body provides reliability for extended outdoor expeditions.

  • LX100: Modest burst rate and slower contrast AF reduce potential in tracking fast animals. Zoom range to 75 mm equivalent is too restricted for distant subjects.

Sports Photography

  • E-M1X: High burst rates, advanced tracking AF, and silent electronic shutter make it competitive in capturing fast-paced action. The rugged body and deep grips aid handheld stability.

  • LX100: Limited frame rate and AF speed make it less suited for sports.

Street Photography

  • E-M1X: While compact controls and articulation exist, the large body size and weight may inhibit candid shooting flexibility. Noise from mechanical shutter may affect discreetness despite silent options.

  • LX100: Compact size, fixed zoom, and unobtrusive operation make it well suited for street reportage and spontaneous shooting.

Macro Photography

  • E-M1X: Supports focus stacking and bracketing with interchangeable macro lenses; great for controlled macro work.

  • LX100: Can focus as close as 3 cm, allowing for casual macro, but lacks advanced stacking and dedicated macro optics.

Night and Astrophotography

  • E-M1X: Sensor and dual processors yield better low light performance up to ISO 3200 and beyond, with in-body 5-axis image stabilization aiding handheld long exposures - a significant plus.

  • LX100: Limited by smaller sensor and older processor, shows more noise at high ISO.

Video Capabilities

  • E-M1X: Offers 4K UHD 24p video at 237 Mbps with professional-level audio inputs (microphone and headphone jacks), supporting monitoring and external audio recording, vital for videographers.

  • LX100: Also shoots 4K UHD, but caps at 30p and lacks external microphone/headphone jacks, limiting audio control. Video bitrate is lower.

Travel Photography

  • E-M1X: Heavy and large, less optimal for minimal packing but excellent for serious travel where versatility and durability are paramount.

  • LX100: Lightweight, portable, and versatile; top choice for travel photographers valuing convenience.

Professional Workflows

  • E-M1X: Dual memory cards, raw support, environmental sealing, extensive controls, and USB-PD charging enhance workflow reliability and professional demands.

  • LX100: Compact functionality meets casual professional or enthusiast needs but lacks advanced workflow features.

Performance at a Glance: Overall Scores

The Olympus E-M1X consistently registers higher in categories requiring speed, robustness, and image quality, while the LX100 scores well for portability, ease of use, and affordability.

Sample Image Analysis

Test shots confirm the detailed high-resolution capability of the E-M1X suits cropping and large prints, especially in landscape and detail-rich subjects. The LX100 excels in producing pleasing out-of-camera JPEGs in natural light conditions but shows limitations in dynamic range and resolution for professional uses.

Price-to-Performance Considerations

  • E-M1X: Priced at approximately $2999, positioning it as an investment for serious photographers who demand advanced features, speed, and ruggedness. Its lens ecosystem further influences overall cost but offers scalability.

  • LX100: At approximately $800 new (older model), it represents strong value for enthusiasts seeking high-quality imaging in a pocketable form. Its all-in-one design keeps long-term system costs low.

Conclusion and Recommendations

Usage Scenario Recommended Camera Reasoning
Professional wildlife & sports Olympus OM-D E-M1X Superior autofocus, burst rates, robust build, and lens selection
Landscape and studio portraits Olympus OM-D E-M1X Higher resolution, weather sealing, versatile lenses, and expanded post-processing
Travel, street, casual Panasonic LX100 Compact size, fast lens, easy handling, good image quality for a fixed-lens compact
Video-centric work Olympus OM-D E-M1X 4K video with professional audio jacks and high bitrate
Budget-conscious enthusiasts Panasonic LX100 Affordable, high image quality, and simple workflow with minimal system complexity

Both cameras excel within their respective niches. The Olympus E-M1X shines where professional-grade speed, flexibility, and durability are essential. Conversely, the Panasonic LX100 remains one of the finest large sensor compacts, prized for portability and image quality in a small package.

This comparison underscores the importance of matching your photographic priorities with the appropriate camera system capabilities rather than defaulting to raw specifications alone. Our hands-on testing over diverse shooting conditions validates these conclusions, ensuring you can make an informed, experience-based choice for your next camera purchase.

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic LX100 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Olympus E-M1X and Panasonic LX100
 Olympus OM-D E-M1XPanasonic Lumix DMC-LX100
General Information
Brand Olympus Panasonic
Model type Olympus OM-D E-M1X Panasonic Lumix DMC-LX100
Category Pro Mirrorless Large Sensor Compact
Announced 2019-01-24 2014-09-15
Physical type SLR-style mirrorless Large Sensor Compact
Sensor Information
Powered by Dual TruePic VIII Venus Engine
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size Four Thirds Four Thirds
Sensor dimensions 17.4 x 13mm 17.3 x 13mm
Sensor surface area 226.2mm² 224.9mm²
Sensor resolution 20 megapixel 13 megapixel
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 4:3 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Max resolution 5184 x 3888 4112 x 3088
Max native ISO 25600 25600
Min native ISO 200 200
RAW format
Min enhanced ISO 64 100
Autofocusing
Manual focusing
Autofocus touch
Autofocus continuous
Autofocus single
Autofocus tracking
Autofocus selectice
Autofocus center weighted
Multi area autofocus
Live view autofocus
Face detect focus
Contract detect focus
Phase detect focus
Total focus points 121 49
Lens
Lens mount type Micro Four Thirds fixed lens
Lens zoom range - 24-75mm (3.1x)
Largest aperture - f/1.7-2.8
Macro focusing distance - 3cm
Number of lenses 107 -
Focal length multiplier 2.1 2.1
Screen
Type of display Fully Articulated Fixed Type
Display diagonal 3 inch 3 inch
Resolution of display 1,037 thousand dots 921 thousand dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch capability
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder Electronic Electronic
Viewfinder resolution 2,360 thousand dots 2,764 thousand dots
Viewfinder coverage 100% 100%
Viewfinder magnification 0.74x 0.7x
Features
Min shutter speed 60 seconds 60 seconds
Max shutter speed 1/8000 seconds 1/4000 seconds
Max quiet shutter speed 1/32000 seconds 1/16000 seconds
Continuous shutter rate 60.0 frames per second 11.0 frames per second
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Custom white balance
Image stabilization
Built-in flash
Flash distance no built-in flash 7.00 m (with included external flash at ISO 100)
Flash modes Redeye, Fill-in, Flash Off, Red-eye Slow sync (1st curtain), Slow sync.(1st curtain), Slow sync (2nd curtain), manual Auto, auto w/redeye reduction, on, on w/redeye reduction, slow sync, slow sync w/redeye reduction, off
Hot shoe
AEB
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment exposure
Average exposure
Spot exposure
Partial exposure
AF area exposure
Center weighted exposure
Video features
Supported video resolutions 4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 237 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 3840 x 2160 (30p, 24p), 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 30p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (30p), 640 x 480
Max video resolution 4096x2160 3840x2160
Video file format MPEG-4, H.264 MPEG-4, AVCHD
Mic port
Headphone port
Connectivity
Wireless Built-In Built-In
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB Yes (USB-PD allows charging by laptop or external power bank) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS Built-in None
Physical
Environmental sealing
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 997 gr (2.20 lbs) 393 gr (0.87 lbs)
Physical dimensions 144 x 147 x 75mm (5.7" x 5.8" x 3.0") 115 x 66 x 55mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 2.2")
DXO scores
DXO Overall rating not tested 67
DXO Color Depth rating not tested 22.3
DXO Dynamic range rating not tested 12.5
DXO Low light rating not tested 553
Other
Battery life 870 shots 300 shots
Battery type Built-in Battery Pack
Self timer Yes (2 or 12 secs, custom) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse shooting
Storage type - SD/SDHC/SDXC (UHS-I)
Card slots 2 Single
Price at release $2,999 $800