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Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic ZS50

Portability
54
Imaging
61
Features
93
Overall
73
Olympus OM-D E-M1X front
 
Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50 front
Portability
90
Imaging
37
Features
57
Overall
45

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic ZS50 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
  • Old Model is Olympus E-M1 II
Panasonic ZS50
(Full Review)
  • 12MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Screen
  • ISO 80 - 6400
  • Optical Image Stabilization
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • 24-720mm (F3.3-6.4) lens
  • 243g - 111 x 65 x 34mm
  • Revealed January 2015
  • Additionally referred to as Lumix DMC-TZ70
  • Previous Model is Panasonic ZS45
  • Updated by Panasonic ZS60
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Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic Lumix ZS50: A Deep-Dive Comparison for Enthusiasts and Pros

Selecting a camera requires an informed balance between capabilities, ergonomics, and budget. The Olympus OM-D E-M1X and Panasonic Lumix ZS50 cater to starkly different photographer profiles and use cases, representing pro-grade mirrorless and compact superzoom classes respectively. With over 15 years testing cameras across genres, I’ll dissect these two models on core attributes, real-world performance, and value to enable discerning choices.

Introduction: Contrasting Designs for Distinct Audiences

At first glance, the Olympus E-M1X and Panasonic ZS50 reveal divergent philosophies. The E-M1X is a pro-focused, robust Micro Four Thirds (MFT) mirrorless camera built for demanding workflows and environmental conditions. Meanwhile, the ZS50 is a compact travel-friendly superzoom ideal for casual shooters prioritizing pocketability and versatility.

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic ZS50 size comparison

Physically, the E-M1X’s SLR-style body weighs nearly 1 kg, offering extensive direct control suited for stability and handling large lenses. The ZS50’s diminutive 243-gram frame emphasizes portability but limits manual control complexity and grip comfort during extended use.

Sensor Architecture and Image Quality: Technical Foundations

Olympus E-M1X: Micro Four Thirds Sensor

  • Sensor size: 17.4 x 13 mm (MFT standard)
  • Resolution: 20 MP (5184 x 3888 pixels)
  • ISO native range: 200–25600, extended 64–25600
  • Anti-aliasing filter: Present
  • Processor: Dual TruePic VIII engines

The E-M1X’s larger MFT sensor strikes a middle ground between APS-C and full frame in image quality and system size, offering superior dynamic range and color fidelity compared to smaller sensors. Its dual image processors enable quick handling of high-resolution raw data alongside advanced stabilization.

Panasonic ZS50: 1/2.3-inch Sensor

  • Sensor size: 6.17 x 4.55 mm
  • Resolution: 12 MP (4000 x 3000 pixels)
  • ISO native range: 80–6400
  • Anti-aliasing filter: Present

The ZS50’s significantly smaller sensor relegates it to lower dynamic range, less depth of field control, and less noise performance in dim light, typical for compact superzooms.

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic ZS50 sensor size comparison

Practical Impact

Field tests confirm the E-M1X outperforms the ZS50 across ISO performance, tonal gradation, and detail retention, crucial for demanding genres like portrait, landscape, and professional work. The ZS50 suffices mainly for casual or travel snapshots where size and zoom range offset sensor compromises.

Autofocus Systems: Precision vs Simplicity

The Olympus E-M1X employs a sophisticated 121-point hybrid AF system blending phase-detection and contrast-detection, with advanced features including face and eye-detection autofocus, and robust continuous AF tracking. Its AF also supports touch-to-focus and comprehensive AF area selections, essential for professional wildlife or sports photography.

In contrast, the Panasonic ZS50 offers a simpler contrast-detection AF system with 23 focus points, face-detection, and center-weighted AF areas only. While adequate for general photography and static subjects, it lacks the speed and advanced tracking seen in the E-M1X.

Olympus E-M1X Panasonic ZS50
121-point hybrid AF (phase+contrast) 23-point contrast-detection AF
Face and eye detection Face detection only
Touch-enabled AF No touchscreen AF
Continuous AF and tracking Basic continuous AF

Though both autofocus reliably lock onto subjects in adequate lighting, the E-M1X’s system excels in complex situations demanding precision and speed, such as sports and wildlife.

Continuous Shooting and Burst Rates: Capturing the Action

Fast burst shooting rates are critical for sports, wildlife, and action photography. Here, the Olympus E-M1X impresses with:

  • Up to 60 fps continuous shooting using electronic shutter
  • High-speed mechanical shutter synchronization
  • Integrated stacked buffer ensuring sustained burst sequences

By contrast, the Panasonic ZS50 caps at 10 fps, typical for compact cameras, which limits its suitability for fast-paced photography.

The E-M1X excels in capturing decisive moments, especially when paired with high-speed UHS-II SD cards and telephoto lenses. The ZS50 is better suited for casual shooting where speed is less of a necessity.

Build Quality and Environmental Durability: Field Ready vs Casual Use

Olympus’s E-M1X showcases pro-grade build quality with comprehensive weather sealing to protect against moisture and dust - an essential feature for outdoor professionals. The body withstands rigorous use including freeze-proof and splash-proof capability, although it is not rated shockproof or crushproof.

The Panasonic ZS50, designed as a compact travel camera, lacks any weather sealing or ruggedization, making it vulnerable under harsh environmental conditions.

For outdoor and adventure photographers, the Olympus's reliability and durability justify its bulk, while ZS50 owners should exercise caution in adverse weather situations.

Ergonomics and Control Layout: Experience in Handling

The E-M1X’s SLR-inspired design emphasizes tactile precision through multiple customizable dials, buttons, a comprehensive top LCD screen, and a robust grip. Such design enables muscle memory use, critical during rapid environment changes.

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic ZS50 top view buttons comparison

Conversely, the ZS50 has a streamlined top plate with minimal physical controls appropriate for beginners or casual users but limits control customization and swift manual adjustments.

Both cameras feature articulating 3-inch LCDs, but the E-M1X’s touch-enabled fully articulating screen and higher viewfinder resolution enhance usability.

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic ZS50 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

The E-M1X’s OLED electronic viewfinder (2360k dots) magnifies subjects with clarity unmatched by the ZS50’s simpler EVF (1166k dots), bolstering compositional accuracy in varied scenarios.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: System Flexibility

Olympus’s micro four thirds mount offers:

  • 107 lenses at launch and continual expansion from Olympus, Panasonic, and third parties.
  • High-quality primes, professional telephotos, macro lenses, and specialty glass.
  • Standard MFT focal length multiplier of 2.0x (specifically 2.1x for field of view).

This vast ecosystem permits photographers to tailor their gear for any genre or style - portraits with fast apertures, landscapes with ultra-wide zooms, or wildlife with supertelephotos.

The Panasonic ZS50’s fixed lens (24-720 mm equivalent, 30x zoom, f/3.3-6.4) offers remarkable reach in a compact shell but precludes lens interchangeability. Optical quality and aperture range are typical for small-sensor compacts, restricting low-light and creative control.

Thus, the E-M1X provides unparalleled flexibility for specialized needs; the ZS50 delivers convenience and telephoto coverage for casual snapshots.

Battery Life and Storage: Dependability Across Sessions

The Olympus E-M1X’s built-in battery delivers approximately 870 shots per charge, suitable for professional use during extended fieldwork. The camera supports USB Power Delivery charging and USB-powered operation, enabling charging from external power banks or laptops - a valuable feature for travel or long sessions.

The Panasonic ZS50, using traditional removable battery packs, provides around 300 shots per charge - adequate for casual use but potentially limiting on longer excursions.

Storage-wise, the E-M1X supports dual SD card slots, allowing backup or overflow, which is critical for pros. The ZS50 has a single card slot and internal memory, limiting flexibility.

Connectivity Options: Sharing and Remote Control

Both cameras include built-in wireless connectivity but differ:

Olympus E-M1X Panasonic ZS50
Wi-Fi and Bluetooth Wi-Fi, NFC
GPS built-in No GPS
USB-C with USB-PD charging USB 2.0
Microphone and headphone jacks No audio ports

The E-M1X supports professional-grade video/audio workflows with microphone and headphone ports, offering in-camera monitoring and recording control.

The ZS50 lacks external audio input, limiting its video recording functionality.

Video Capabilities: From Professional Recording to Casual Clips

Olympus E-M1X outputs:

  • 4K DCI UHD (4096x2160) at 24p, 237 Mbps (MOV, H.264, LPCM)
  • 4K Photo mode for extracting stills up to 8MP
  • Enhanced image stabilization for video

The ZS50 is limited to full HD 1080p (1920x1080) max at 60p, with common consumer codecs (MP4, AVCHD), but lacks 4K or advanced features.

While the E-M1X caters to professional videographers needing high resolution, bitrates, and audio control, the ZS50 suits casual video capture.

Evaluating Performance across Photography Genres

Assessing genre-specific strengths clarifies which photographer benefits most.

Portraits

  • E-M1X: Excellent skin tone rendering, creamy 5-axis stabilization, accurate eye detection, superior bokeh control using MFT primes.
  • ZS50: Limited depth of field and bokeh due to small sensor and slower lens; adequate face detection.

Landscape

  • E-M1X: High resolution, excellent dynamic range, weather sealing ideal for varied environments, and support for focus bracketing.
  • ZS50: Compact but compromised dynamic range and limited exposure latitude hinder fine detail capture.

Wildlife & Sports

  • E-M1X: Fast AF, high burst rates (60fps), robust tracking, telephoto lens compatibility.
  • ZS50: 30x zoom can capture distant subjects, but slower AF and burst rate limit action shooting ability.

Street

  • E-M1X: Bulky; less discreet but excellent low-light capability.
  • ZS50: Compact size optimal for candid shooting and portability.

Macro

  • E-M1X: Compatible with dedicated macro lenses and fine focusing tools.
  • ZS50: 3cm macro focusing with fixed lens; suitable for casual close-up images.

Night/Astro

  • E-M1X: Superior high ISO, low noise performance, and stabilization aid long exposures.
  • ZS50: Usable but with considerable noise and limits on exposure control.

Video

  • E-M1X: Professional 4K recording, audio ports, and stabilization.
  • ZS50: Basic full HD video, no external audio inputs.

Travel

  • E-M1X: Heavy but versatile, dual card slots, built-in GPS.
  • ZS50: Light carry weight, long zoom, easy battery swap.

Professional Work

  • E-M1X: Raw support, durable construction, extensive lens choices.
  • ZS50: Limited raw output and system expandability.

Sample Image Comparisons: Real-World Quality

Side-by-side image gallery emphasizes difference in detail, color rendering, depth, and noise suppression.

The Olympus images showcase nuanced tones and sharpness, while Panasonic images illustrate respectable versatility for a compact but with visible constraints in challenging light.

Overall Performance Ratings: Objective Assessment

  • Olympus E-M1X scores highly in image quality, autofocus, speed, and build.
  • Panasonic ZS50 rates modestly, excelling mainly in portability and zoom reach for its class.

Price-to-Performance Analysis: Investment Considerations

  • Olympus E-M1X retail ~ $3,000 (body only), reflecting professional-grade design, sensor, and ecosystem.
  • Panasonic ZS50 ~$350, budget-friendly, caters to casual and travel shooters.

Considering the gap, the E-M1X demands serious commitment and delivers proportional capabilities; ZS50 is a competent point-and-shoot alternative for the money.

Final Recommendations

Select the Olympus E-M1X if You:

  • Require professional-grade autofocus, speed, and image quality.
  • Prioritize ruggedness and weather resistance for demanding conditions.
  • Need flexibility of interchangeable lenses and advanced video features.
  • Shoot sports, wildlife, portraits, or landscapes extensively.
  • Can justify the size, weight, and investment.

Choose the Panasonic ZS50 if You:

  • Want an ultra-compact travel camera with long superzoom flexibility.
  • Shoot casual, everyday photos with minimal manual controls.
  • Prefer low-cost entry or need a convenient carry-anywhere option.
  • Are okay with lower image quality in exchange for portability.
  • Seek a simple point-and-shoot for street or family snapshots.

Conclusion: Distinct Tools for Different Ambitions

The Olympus E-M1X and Panasonic ZS50 represent two ends of the photographic tool spectrum. The E-M1X’s pro credentials in sensor technology, autofocus prowess, and ruggedness make it a powerhouse for specialized photography disciplines and professional workflows. Conversely, the ZS50’s compact size and versatile zoom lens cater well to casual users and travelers valuing convenience over ultimate image quality.

A clear understanding of your photography goals, budget, and preferences will guide the optimal choice. My extensive hands-on testing confirms the E-M1X is a workhorse for professionals, while the ZS50 remains a reliable companion for enthusiast snapshots and journeys.

If you found this comparison insightful, feel free to share or reach out with further camera evaluation inquiries. Good shooting!

Appendix: Technical Snapshot Summary Table

Feature Olympus OM-D E-M1X Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50
Sensor 20MP Micro Four Thirds CMOS 12MP 1/2.3" CMOS
Viewfinder 2360k Dot OLED EVF 1166k Dot EVF
Screen 3" Fully articulating touchscreen 3" Fixed LCD
AF Points 121 hybrid phase & contrast 23 contrast detection points
Continuous Shooting Speed 60 fps (electronic shutter) 10 fps
Video Resolution 4K DCI (4096x2160 @ 24 fps) 1080p @ 60 fps
Image Stabilization Sensor-based 5-axis Optical lens stabilization
Weather Sealing Yes No
Weight 997g 243g
Price (approx.) $3000 $350

Note: Image links correspond to supported images included inline above for contextual visualization.

Olympus E-M1X vs Panasonic ZS50 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Olympus E-M1X and Panasonic ZS50
 Olympus OM-D E-M1XPanasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50
General Information
Manufacturer Olympus Panasonic
Model Olympus OM-D E-M1X Panasonic Lumix DMC-ZS50
Alternate name - Lumix DMC-TZ70
Type Pro Mirrorless Small Sensor Superzoom
Announced 2019-01-24 2015-01-06
Body design SLR-style mirrorless Compact
Sensor Information
Chip Dual TruePic VIII -
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size Four Thirds 1/2.3"
Sensor measurements 17.4 x 13mm 6.17 x 4.55mm
Sensor surface area 226.2mm² 28.1mm²
Sensor resolution 20 megapixel 12 megapixel
Anti aliasing filter
Aspect ratio 4:3 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9
Peak resolution 5184 x 3888 4000 x 3000
Highest native ISO 25600 6400
Min native ISO 200 80
RAW images
Min enhanced ISO 64 -
Autofocusing
Focus manually
Touch focus
Continuous AF
AF single
Tracking AF
AF selectice
AF center weighted
AF multi area
Live view AF
Face detect focusing
Contract detect focusing
Phase detect focusing
Number of focus points 121 23
Lens
Lens mounting type Micro Four Thirds fixed lens
Lens focal range - 24-720mm (30.0x)
Maximal aperture - f/3.3-6.4
Macro focus distance - 3cm
Amount of lenses 107 -
Crop factor 2.1 5.8
Screen
Display type Fully Articulated Fixed Type
Display sizing 3" 3"
Resolution of display 1,037k dot 1,040k dot
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch operation
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder Electronic Electronic
Viewfinder resolution 2,360k dot 1,166k dot
Viewfinder coverage 100 percent 100 percent
Viewfinder magnification 0.74x 0.46x
Features
Min shutter speed 60 seconds 4 seconds
Max shutter speed 1/8000 seconds 1/2000 seconds
Max quiet shutter speed 1/32000 seconds -
Continuous shutter speed 60.0fps 10.0fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Expose Manually
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Change WB
Image stabilization
Integrated flash
Flash range no built-in flash 6.40 m
Flash settings Redeye, Fill-in, Flash Off, Red-eye Slow sync (1st curtain), Slow sync.(1st curtain), Slow sync (2nd curtain), manual Auto, Auto/Red-eye Reduction, Forced On, Slow Sync./Red-eye Reduction, Forced Off
Hot shoe
AEB
White balance bracketing
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Video resolutions 4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 237 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM 1920 x 1080 (60p/60i/30p), 1280 x 720 (60p/30p), 640 x 480 (30p)
Highest video resolution 4096x2160 1920x1080
Video file format MPEG-4, H.264 MPEG-4, AVCHD
Microphone jack
Headphone jack
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
Environment seal
Water proof
Dust proof
Shock proof
Crush proof
Freeze proof
Weight 997g (2.20 lb) 243g (0.54 lb)
Dimensions 144 x 147 x 75mm (5.7" x 5.8" x 3.0") 111 x 65 x 34mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.3")
DXO scores
DXO Overall score not tested 44
DXO Color Depth score not tested 20.0
DXO Dynamic range score not tested 11.2
DXO Low light score not tested 138
Other
Battery life 870 pictures 300 pictures
Battery form Built-in Battery Pack
Self timer Yes (2 or 12 secs, custom) Yes (2 or 10 sec)
Time lapse recording
Type of storage - SD/SDHC/SDXC, Internal
Storage slots Two One
Price at release $2,999 $350