Olympus E-M1X vs Sony WX500: A Deep Dive into Two Very Different Cameras

Choosing your next camera is always exciting but can also be overwhelming, especially when comparing models from distinct segments like professional mirrorless systems and compact superzooms. Today, we’re taking an authoritative, hands-on look at the Olympus OM-D E-M1X and the Sony Cyber-shot WX500. Despite their broad differences in design, target users, and price points, this comparison aims to uncover how each excels - and where compromises lie - to help you find your perfect photographic companion.

Let’s break down these cameras across real-world performance, technical specs, and photographic use cases based on extensive experience testing thousands of models over the years.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Handling

Jumping straight into physicality, the Olympus E-M1X clearly commands a professional presence, while the Sony WX500 is all about pocketability.

Olympus E-M1X: Engineered for Professional Use

This camera is substantial but thoughtfully sculpted. Its large grip and button layout ensure secure hold and quick adjustments, even with hefty super-tele lenses. Weather sealing adds peace of mind for tough landscapes or wildlife shoots.

Sony WX500: Compact Convenience

The WX500 is ultra-portable, small enough to slip into a jacket pocket, which makes it ideal for casual travel, street photography, or anyone prioritizing a lightweight setup.

If you’re after a rugged workhorse, the Olympus is unmistakably better built. But for on-the-go shooters who want quick access to a long zoom without bulk, Sony shines.

Ergonomics and User Interface: Controls that Keep Up

Both cameras approach controls differently. Here’s a look at their control designs from the top.

Olympus E-M1X features dual top LCD panels for quick settings checks, along with dedicated dials for shutter speed, aperture, and ISO. Its touchscreen adds versatility, although physical buttons remain essential for pro speed.

Sony WX500 is streamlined, featuring fewer physical controls and no touchscreen. Its tilting screen, while non-touch, allows framing at tricky angles but limits rapid menu navigation.

For photographers used to manual control and fast adjustments, Olympus wins hands down - the dedicated controls help retain creative flow, especially in fast-paced environments. The Sony feels more “point-and-shoot” in handling, suitable for beginners or those prioritizing simplicity.

Inside the Camera: Sensor Size and Image Quality Fundamentals

Sensor technology lies at the heart of image quality differences. Here's the sensor comparison:

Sensor Size Impact Explained

The Olympus’s Four Thirds sensor is nearly 8 times larger in surface area than the Sony’s tiny 1/2.3" chip. Larger sensors generally translate to:

• Better light gathering ability
• Higher dynamic range
• Cleaner results at high ISO settings
• More detailed, sharper images, especially when paired with quality optics

The Sony’s small sensor - common in compact superzooms - is a compromise to achieve extreme zoom reach and pocket size, but it struggles in low light and produces more noise at higher sensitivity.

For photographers who demand top-notch image fidelity, especially at high ISO or large prints, the Olympus sensor offers a critical advantage. Meanwhile, the Sony excels in bright daylight snapshots and casual travel photography.

Display and Viewfinder: Seeing Your World in Frame

Have a look at how both cameras help you compose and review images:

Olympus E-M1X: Professional Framing

The electronic viewfinder (EVF) on the Olympus is large, bright, and detailed - an indispensable tool for pro photographers in bright sunlight or action scenarios. Its fully articulating touchscreen offers flexible angles for video or creative shooting.

Sony WX500: Screen-Only Operation

Without an EVF, the WX500 relies on the rear LCD. The tilting panel allows comfortable selfies and low-angle shots but offers less versatility than a fully articulating display.

If you often shoot outdoors in bright light or prefer eye-level framing, the EVF-equipped Olympus is far more user-friendly.

Autofocus Performance: Locking the Moment

Fast, reliable autofocus is critical for many photography types. Here’s how these two cameras compare:

For wildlife, sports, or any fast subjects, autofocus speed and accuracy are paramount.

Olympus E-M1X: Professional-Level AF

Olympus balances 121 phase and contrast detect points, smart face and eye detection, plus exceptional continuous tracking at an ultra-rapid 60 frames per second. This makes it a top choice for action-heavy genres such as sports or wildlife photography.

Sony WX500: Basic AF for Everyday Shooting

While capable of continuous autofocus and face detection, the WX500 lacks phase detection and sophisticated tracking algorithms. It’s fine for casual scenes and still subjects but struggles with rapidly moving subjects.

Lens Systems and Flexibility: Expand or Built-In?

Olympus E-M1X: Virtually Unlimited Creativity

Being an interchangeable lens system with Micro Four Thirds mount, the E-M1X supports an exceptionally wide range of lenses - from fast primes to super-telephotos. This system flexibility is unmatched for professional work or advanced enthusiasts seeking creative control.

Sony WX500: All-in-One Convenience

The WX500 features a fixed superzoom lens, reaching the equivalent of 24–720mm. It’s remarkable for a compact body but lacks the optical versatility and image quality benefits of prime or professional zoom lenses.

Performance by Photography Genre: Where Each Shines

Let’s explore how these cameras handle various photographic disciplines.

Portrait Photography

Recommendation: The Olympus’s lens ecosystem and larger sensor provide superior skin tones and creamy bokeh essential for professional portraits. The WX500 is better for casual snapshots.

Landscape Photography

Recommendation: Olympus excels with better high ISO and wide DR. Weather sealing makes it well suited for outdoor adventures. Sony is adequate for daylight landscapes but limited for serious work.

Wildlife Photography

Recommendation: The Olympus, combined with professional tele lenses, offers unrivaled AF and durability for wildlife pros. The WX500 gives a long zoom in a tiny package - an excellent travel backup, but less capable for fast action.

Sports Photography

Recommendation: Olympus is a clear choice for team or action sports, with fast, reliable AF and burst modes. WX500 suitable only for casual or daylight sports photography.

Street Photography

Recommendation: If stealth and lightweight gear are your priorities, Sony WX500 is an excellent street companion. Olympus provides superior image quality but at a cost to portability.

Macro Photography

Recommendation: Olympus’s focus bracketing and stacking capabilities make it ideal for macro enthusiasts seeking sharp detail. Sony’s macro mode is suitable for casual close-ups.

Night & Astro Photography

Recommendation: Olympus’s sensor and shutter speed range are well suited for low light and astro work. WX500 is not built for serious night photography.

Video Capabilities

The Olympus E-M1X is clearly the more capable video tool, with professional codecs, uncompressed mic input, and headphone monitoring. Sony WX500 covers casual video needs only.

Travel & Daily Use

Professional Workflow & Reliability

Professionals will appreciate Olympus’s built-in reliability features, dual storage, and tethering options. Sony WX500 targets casual photographers without professional workflow needs.

Connectivity and Storage

Olympus’s newer USB-C port allows charging during use, making long remote sessions easier. Sony’s connectivity suite is basic but functional.

Price and Value Assessment

The price gap highlights their divergent philosophies: Olympus targets professionals needing cutting-edge features and durability, while Sony WX500 serves as an affordable, versatile travel camera.

Side-by-Side Performance Ratings

After thorough testing and applying standardized industry benchmarks, here are the overall and genre-specific scores out of 10, reflecting real-world usage and technical capabilities:

Sample Gallery: Real-World Image Comparisons

To illustrate practical results, here are paired sample images captured side-by-side in similar conditions:

Olympus E M1X front Olympus E M1X screen back Sony WX500 front Sony WX500 screen back

You’ll notice the Olympus’s clearer details, richer colors, and better low-light noise control. Sony images are sharper than expected for sensor size but exhibit more noise and limited dynamic range.

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

Final Thoughts: Balancing Your Priorities

The Olympus OM-D E-M1X stands tall as an uncompromising, professional-grade system camera. Its robust build, advanced autofocus, superior image quality, expansive lens lineup, and video features make it a compelling choice if you prioritize creative control, durability, and high performance.

Meanwhile, the Sony WX500 delivers an extraordinary zoom range in an ultra-portable body at a wallet-friendly price. This camera is perfect if you want an everyday companion that's easy to carry during travels or street shooting, where ease of use and size trump ultimate image fidelity.

Neither camera is “better” overall - the right choice depends on your needs, budget, and shooting style. We recommend:

• Try before you buy: Hands-on feels matter. If possible, visit a store and physically handle both.
• Consider your future gear: The Olympus system’s lens versatility ensures you can grow your kit.
• Match your shooting genres: Choose Olympus if you shoot action, wildlife, or professional video; Sony if portability and casual shooting dominate.

Before You Go

Check out reliable accessories that complement your chosen camera. For Olympus, quality telephoto and fast prime lenses will unlock the full system potential. For Sony, consider sturdy memory cards and portable power packs to extend your shooting joy.

Your photographic journey deserves gear that helps you capture your vision effortlessly. Armed with these insights, you’re now better equipped to make a rewarding choice!

Happy shooting!