Olympus E-M1X vs Sony WX500
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Olympus E-M1X vs Sony WX500 Key Specs
(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
- Launched January 2019
- Older Model is Olympus E-M1 II
(Full Review)
- 18MP - 1/2.3" Sensor
- 3" Tilting Screen
- ISO 80 - 12800
- Optical Image Stabilization
- 1920 x 1080 video
- 24-720mm (F3.5-6.4) lens
- 236g - 102 x 58 x 36mm
- Announced April 2015
- Old Model is Sony WX350

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.
Feature | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Body Type | SLR-style Mirrorless | Compact Superzoom |
Dimensions (mm) | 144 x 147 x 75 | 102 x 58 x 36 |
Weight (with battery) | 997 g | 236 g |
Weather Sealing | Yes (Dust & Splash Resistant) | No |
Battery Life (CIPA) | 870 shots | 360 shots |
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:
Feature | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Sensor Type | Four Thirds CMOS | 1/2.3" BSI-CMOS |
Sensor Dimensions (mm) | 17.4 x 13 | 6.17 x 4.55 |
Sensor Area (mm²) | 226.20 | 28.07 |
Resolution (megapixels) | 20 | 18 |
Max ISO | 25600 (native) | 12800 |
Antialiasing Filter | Yes | Yes |
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:
Feature | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
LCD Screen Size | 3.0" Fully Articulated Touchscreen | 3.0" Tilting (Non-touch) |
LCD Resolution | 1,037,000 dots | 921,600 dots |
Electronic Viewfinder | Yes, 2,360,000 dots, 0.74x | None |
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:
Feature | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Autofocus Points | 121 (Hybrid Phase & Contrast Detection) | Unknown (Contrast Detection only) |
Face/Eye Detection | Yes | Yes |
Animal Eye AF | No | No |
Continuous AF | Yes (up to 60fps burst) | Yes (up to 10fps burst) |
Tracking Capabilities | Advanced tracking with AI and predictive | Basic tracking |
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?
Feature | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Lens Mount | Micro Four Thirds (MFT) | Fixed Built-in Lens |
Available Lenses | Over 107 lenses from Olympus, Panasonic | None (24-720mm equivalent zoom) |
Max Aperture Range | Dependent on lens | f/3.5-6.4 |
Telephoto Advantage | Yes, with native native long lenses | Yes, large zoom but smaller aperture |
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
Aspect | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Skin Tone Rendering | Excellent, natural with 20MP detailed sensor | Good but limited by small sensor |
Bokeh Quality | Excellent, depending on lens choice | Limited softness due to small sensor and fixed lens aperture |
Eye AF | Yes, fast and reliable | Yes, face detection only |
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
Aspect | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Dynamic Range | High thanks to Four Thirds sensor | Moderate, limited by sensor size |
Resolution | 20MP native resolution | 18MP, smaller sensor |
Weather Sealing | Yes | No |
Battery Life | 870 shots | 360 shots |
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
Aspect | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Autofocus Speed & Accuracy | Outstanding with 121 AF points, 60fps burst | Basic AF, 10fps burst |
Telephoto Ability | Excellent with MFT tele lenses | Built-in superzoom up to 720mm equivalent |
Battery Endurance | Long-lasting, great for fieldwork | Moderate battery life |
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
Feature | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Frame Rate | Up to 60 fps burst with AF tracking | Up to 10 fps |
AF Accuracy | Pro-level tracking and phase detect AF | Basic AF with face detection |
Low Light Performance | Good, thanks to larger sensor & 5-axis IS | Limited due to small sensor |
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
Criteria | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Discreteness | Bulky body may attract attention | Small, pocketable, discreet |
Low Light Capability | Strong with stabilized sensor | Limited by sensor size |
Portability | Heavy, less suited for quick urban shots | Excellent for spontaneous shots |
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
Feature | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Focus Precision | Focus bracketing and stacking supported | Not supported |
Magnification | Dependent on lens choice | Macro focusing at 5cm minimum |
Stabilization | Sensor-based 5-axis IS | Optical stabilizer |
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
Attribute | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
High ISO Performance | Strong, up to 25600 | Moderate, max ISO 12800 |
Long Exposure Support | Excellent shutter speeds and bracketing | Limited maximum shutter 1/30s-2000s |
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
Feature | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Max Resolution | 4K UHD at 24p and 237 Mbps MOV | 1080p full HD at up to 60p |
Stabilization | Excellent 5-axis sensor stabilization | Optical SteadyShot |
Audio | Microphone and headphone jacks present | No audio input or headphone ports |
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
Feature | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Size & Weight | Heavy, less convenient for casual travel | Ultra-light, easy portability |
Battery Life | Long, ideal for extended shoots | Moderate, quick recharge needed |
Versatility | Immense lens and control flexibility | All-in-one zoom, limited control |
Professional Workflow & Reliability
Criteria | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
RAW File Support | Yes, robust 20MP Four Thirds RAW | No RAW support |
Dual Card Slots | Yes | No |
USB Charging & Tether | USB-PD compatible | USB 2.0 only |
Environmental Sealing | Weather sealed | No |
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
Feature | Olympus E-M1X | Sony WX500 |
---|---|---|
Wireless | Wi-Fi and Bluetooth | Wi-Fi only, NFC |
Storage Slots | Dual SD Card | Single SD Card |
USB Port | USB-C with charging support | USB 2.0 |
HDMI Output | Yes, full-size | Yes, micro |
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
Camera | Price (Approximate) |
---|---|
Olympus E-M1X | $2999 |
Sony WX500 | $348 |
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:
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?
User Profile | Recommendation |
---|---|
Professional wildlife/sports shooter | Olympus E-M1X |
Portrait and landscape professional | Olympus E-M1X |
Serious hobbyists and landscape enthusiasts | Olympus E-M1X |
Casual travel and street photographers | Sony WX500 |
Beginners wanting a simple, long-zoom camera | Sony WX500 |
Vloggers and content creators wanting 4K and advanced video | Olympus E-M1X |
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!
Olympus E-M1X vs Sony WX500 Specifications
Olympus OM-D E-M1X | Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 | |
---|---|---|
General Information | ||
Company | Olympus | Sony |
Model type | Olympus OM-D E-M1X | Sony Cyber-shot DSC-WX500 |
Class | Pro Mirrorless | Small Sensor Superzoom |
Launched | 2019-01-24 | 2015-04-14 |
Body design | SLR-style mirrorless | Compact |
Sensor Information | ||
Processor | Dual TruePic VIII | Bionz X |
Sensor type | CMOS | BSI-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 | 20MP | 18MP |
Anti alias filter | ||
Aspect ratio | 4:3 | 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 |
Full resolution | 5184 x 3888 | 4896 x 3672 |
Max native ISO | 25600 | 12800 |
Min native ISO | 200 | 80 |
RAW format | ||
Min boosted ISO | 64 | - |
Autofocusing | ||
Manual focusing | ||
Autofocus touch | ||
Continuous autofocus | ||
Single autofocus | ||
Autofocus tracking | ||
Selective autofocus | ||
Center weighted autofocus | ||
Autofocus multi area | ||
Autofocus live view | ||
Face detect autofocus | ||
Contract detect autofocus | ||
Phase detect autofocus | ||
Total focus points | 121 | - |
Lens | ||
Lens support | Micro Four Thirds | fixed lens |
Lens zoom range | - | 24-720mm (30.0x) |
Max aperture | - | f/3.5-6.4 |
Macro focusing distance | - | 5cm |
Available lenses | 107 | - |
Focal length multiplier | 2.1 | 5.8 |
Screen | ||
Range of display | Fully Articulated | Tilting |
Display size | 3 inches | 3 inches |
Resolution of display | 1,037k dot | 921k dot |
Selfie friendly | ||
Liveview | ||
Touch function | ||
Viewfinder Information | ||
Viewfinder type | Electronic | None |
Viewfinder resolution | 2,360k dot | - |
Viewfinder coverage | 100 percent | - |
Viewfinder magnification | 0.74x | - |
Features | ||
Slowest shutter speed | 60 seconds | 30 seconds |
Maximum shutter speed | 1/8000 seconds | 1/2000 seconds |
Maximum quiet shutter speed | 1/32000 seconds | - |
Continuous shooting speed | 60.0fps | 10.0fps |
Shutter priority | ||
Aperture priority | ||
Manual exposure | ||
Exposure compensation | Yes | Yes |
Custom white balance | ||
Image stabilization | ||
Built-in flash | ||
Flash distance | no built-in flash | 5.40 m (with Auto ISO) |
Flash settings | Redeye, Fill-in, Flash Off, Red-eye Slow sync (1st curtain), Slow sync.(1st curtain), Slow sync (2nd curtain), manual | Auto, flash on, slow sync, flash off, rear sync |
Hot shoe | ||
AEB | ||
White balance bracketing | ||
Exposure | ||
Multisegment | ||
Average | ||
Spot | ||
Partial | ||
AF area | ||
Center weighted | ||
Video features | ||
Supported video resolutions | 4096 x 2160 @ 24p / 237 Mbps, MOV, H.264, Linear PCM | 1920 x 1080 (60p, 60i, 30p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (30p) |
Max video resolution | 4096x2160 | 1920x1080 |
Video file format | MPEG-4, H.264 | AVCHD, XAVC S |
Microphone input | ||
Headphone input | ||
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 seal | ||
Water proofing | ||
Dust proofing | ||
Shock proofing | ||
Crush proofing | ||
Freeze proofing | ||
Weight | 997g (2.20 pounds) | 236g (0.52 pounds) |
Dimensions | 144 x 147 x 75mm (5.7" x 5.8" x 3.0") | 102 x 58 x 36mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 1.4") |
DXO scores | ||
DXO All around rating | not tested | not tested |
DXO Color Depth rating | not tested | not tested |
DXO Dynamic range rating | not tested | not tested |
DXO Low light rating | not tested | not tested |
Other | ||
Battery life | 870 pictures | 360 pictures |
Form of battery | Built-in | Battery Pack |
Battery ID | - | NP-BX1 |
Self timer | Yes (2 or 12 secs, custom) | Yes |
Time lapse recording | ||
Storage media | - | SD/SDHC/SDXC, Memory Stick Duo |
Storage slots | Dual | 1 |
Pricing at launch | $2,999 | $348 |