Olympus E-M5 II vs Pentax MX-1: A Detailed Comparison for Discerning Photographers

In the ever-evolving world of photography, the quest for the “right camera” feels like chasing a beautiful mirage - especially as tech leaps forward and budget lenses compete fiercely with high-end glass. Today, I’m diving deep into a comparison of two intriguing cameras from different corners of the market: the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, an advanced mirrorless champion from 2015, and the fascinatingly quirky Pentax MX-1, a smaller sensor compact from 2013. Both have their devotees and deliver in different ways - but which one earns a prime spot in your gear bag in 2024?

Having personally handled and tested both models extensively - in the studio, the streets, under dim concert lights, and on lengthy hikes - I’ll walk you through real-world performance differences, technical nuances, and practical considerations that often get lost in spec sheets.

Buckle up for a blend of numbers, impressions, and geeky anecdotes. Let’s uncover where each camera shines, stumbles, and suits your photographic appetite.

Getting a Feel for the Cameras: Size, Ergonomics, and Build

Before we talk pixels and autofocus magic, how a camera feels in hand - its weight, grip, and button placement - can make or break the shooting experience. Olympus and Pentax approach this differently by design.

The Olympus E-M5 II is a mirrorless camera with an SLR-style body, boasting a heftier and more deliberate presence. Weighing in at 469 grams with dimensions of 124x85x45 mm, it strikes a balance between portability and ergonomic substance. The camera’s magnesium alloy body is weather-sealed, offering a robust build for photographers who want to venture into the rain, dust, or light freezing conditions without clutching their camera like a delicate vase.

On the flip side, the Pentax MX-1 is a compact camera, significantly smaller and lighter at 391 grams and measuring 122x61x51 mm. Though it’s designed to slip easily into a jacket pocket, it bears a higher profile thickness-wise (51 mm), largely because of its fixed zoom lens. The MX-1’s build is solid and retro-charming but lacks any weather sealing - something to keep in mind if you shoot outdoors a lot.

Ergonomically, the Olympus is more camera-like with a deep grip, pronounced dials, and buttons that feel tactile and responsive. Its 5-axis sensor stabilization further complements handheld shooting comfort. The MX-1, taking a compact route, sacrifices some ergonomics for pocketability - its controls are minimalistic but intuitive, suitable for quick grab-and-go shooting though less tweakable on the fly.

If you appreciate physical dials and buttons with real feedback - especially for manual exposure and aperture control - Olympus wins hands down here.

Design and Controls: How the Cameras Speak to You

Beyond the pure physical size, the way control layouts and the top plate are orchestrated says a lot about the intended user and photographic intent.

Olympus equips the E-M5 II with a functional, yet elegant, control scheme featuring dedicated dials for shutter speed, exposure compensation, and a joystick-based AF point selector. The top view reveals a clean arrangement that distributes buttons and dials well - it feels like the camera anticipates your finger movements.

In contrast, the Pentax MX-1’s top panel is simpler but has that beloved vintage charm, including an aperture ring on the lens barrel that appeals to those who enjoy tactile handling. However, the camera lacks the breadth of dedicated customizable buttons and controls found on the E-M5 II, opting for more menu-driven access.

For photographers who appreciate muscle memory and fast adjustments - landscape shooters fiddling with depth of field or street shooters tweaking exposure compensation in a second - Olympus definitely makes the interface more appealing and efficient.

Sensor Size, Resolution, and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Let's get to the meat of image quality - the sensor.

The Olympus E-M5 II has a Four Thirds sized MOS sensor measuring 17.3x13 mm, with a resolution of 16 megapixels (4608 x 3456). While smaller than APS-C or full-frame, this sensor is backed by the TruePic VII processor and a no-nonsense optical low-pass filter to provide sharp yet natural images.

The Pentax MX-1 sports a much smaller 1/1.7" CMOS sensor - measuring just 7.44x5.58 mm and capturing 12 megapixels (4000 x 3000). This sensor size, albeit larger than typical compact cameras, naturally limits dynamic range and high ISO performance compared to larger sensors.

DXOMark scores reflect these sensor distinctions vividly: The Olympus scores an overall 73 with color depth at 23 bits and dynamic range of 12.4 EV, while the MX-1 scores 49 with 20.4 bits color depth and 11.3 EV dynamic range. Low-light ISO performance is notably different: the Olympus shines at ISO 896, whereas Pentax stumbles at ISO 208.

What does this mean practically? In well-lit conditions, the MX-1 can still produce pleasing and punchy images, especially with that bright f/1.8-2.5 fixed lens. However, when shadows deepen or night falls, the Olympus’s sensor can retain more detail and cleaner colors - a crucial factor for landscapes, portraits, and astrophotography alike.

LCD Display and Viewfinder: Composing Your Shot

Both cameras offer 3-inch LCDs, but their implementation differs markedly.

The Olympus E-M5 II features a fully articulated touchscreen with 1,037k-dot resolution. This flexibility and touch control make it a powerful tool: You can shoot at awkward angles, compose selfies, make AF point selections with a tap, and review images crisply.

Conversely, the Pentax MX-1 has a tilting TFT LCD with 920k-dot resolution but no touchscreen capability. This screen communicates solidly but feels a bit more staid, especially for those accustomed to the tap-to-focus or flick-anywhere gesture of newer cameras.

Another critical difference: the Olympus has a 2,360k-dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) providing 100% coverage and 0.74x magnification, perfect for daylight composition and stability. The MX-1 offers no EVF, relying solely on the rear LCD. This absence may be a dealbreaker for some photographers who prefer placing the camera to their eye for steadier shooting or better visibility in bright sun.

Autofocus Systems: Hunting Speed vs. Precision

Autofocus can separate winners from also-rans, especially for fast-moving subjects or demanding lighting scenarios.

Olympus’s E-M5 II employs an 81-point contrast-detection AF system with face detection. While not the most cutting-edge by today’s standards, it was a class-leading performer upon release, delivering fast and reliable focus acquisition and tracking on moving subjects - especially when paired with fast Olympus lenses.

The Pentax MX-1’s autofocus is simpler, with only 25 contrast-detection points and no AF point selection. It supports face detection, but without multi-area or tracking AF. Continuous AF shooting is stymied by a solitary 1 fps burst rate, too slow for anything approaching sports or wildlife action.

For portrait and wildlife shooters who need eye detection or precision tracking, the Olympus’s system more than holds its own. Meanwhile, the MX-1 works best for static subjects or casual snapshots.

The Lens Ecosystem: Flexibility or Fixed Simplicity?

Here’s where these two cameras couldn’t be more different.

The Olympus E-M5 II uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, which boasts an impressive selection of over 100 lenses ranging from ultra-wide primes to super-telephoto zooms - including options from Olympus, Panasonic, and third parties like Sigma. This modularity invites creative freedom. Want creamy bokeh with a fast prime? Or a compact travel zoom? You’ve got it.

Pentax MX-1’s fixed lens covers an equivalent zoom range of 28–112mm with a bright f/1.8-2.5 aperture - great for low-light shooting and shallow depth-of-field effects at the wide end. But you’re locked in - no lens swaps, and no upgrades.

If you crave versatility or plan to grow your system, Olympus’s ecosystem is far more expansive. The MX-1 appeals more to enthusiasts who want all-in-one convenience without fuss.

Performance Across Photography Disciplines: Real-World Test Drive

Portrait Photography

When it comes to capturing lifelike skin tones and gorgeous bokeh, sensor size and lens speed matter most.

Olympus’s 16MP Four Thirds sensor, paired with fast primes (like the 45mm f/1.8), provides flattering skin texture with natural color rendition. The 5-axis in-body image stabilization helps sharpen handheld portraits. Its face detection AF reliably locks on eyes, allowing tack-sharp portraits with creamy backgrounds.

The MX-1’s smaller sensor limits bokeh, and while its lens is bright at f/1.8, background blur is less pronounced. Its JPEG engine tends to punch colors slightly, sometimes flattering but occasionally a tad artificial. Face detection works but isn't as accurate as Olympus.

Verdict: Olympus excels with portraits, offering more control, sharper focus, and superior background separation.

Landscape Photography

Wide dynamic range, resolution, and weather sealing give landscape shooters peace of mind.

The E-M5 II’s 16MP sensor with strong dynamic range captures highlight and shadow detail beautifully. Weather sealing makes it rugged for outdoor shoots under demanding conditions - rain or dust won’t keep you indoors. A broad range of sharp MFT lenses is available for wide or telephoto landscapes.

The MX-1’s smaller sensor captures less detail and struggles with shadows and highlights in contrasty scenes. No weather sealing means greater vulnerability to elements - risky on adventure hikes.

Verdict: Olympus’s Four Thirds system dominates landscapes for image quality and durability.

Wildlife Photography

Speed and reach are key here.

Olympus’s fast 81-point AF and 10 fps burst rate make it capable of tracking fluttering birds or bounding mammals - especially when paired with telephoto zooms like the 75-300mm M.Zuiko.

The MX-1’s slow autofocus, lack of telephoto reach beyond 112mm equivalent, and single frame per second continuous capture make it an impractical choice for wildlife.

Verdict: Olympus hands down, especially for serious nature shooters.

Sports Photography

Tracking accuracy, low light, and quick burst rates are essential.

Olympus’s autofocus system combined with 10 fps enables freezing fast action - cyclists, runners, or kids at the ballpark. Its AF tracking is decent but not professional-grade. Low-light ISO up to 25600 offers usable images with reduced noise up to about ISO 1600.

Pentax MX-1 is slow in burst and focusing terms - best for posed or static scenes. High ISO noise is more problematic, making it less appropriate for fast-action sports.

Verdict: Olympus is the obvious choice.

Street Photography

Discretion, responsiveness, and portability are prized.

Here, things get interesting. The MX-1’s small size and fixed zoom make it pocket-friendly and less conspicuous. Its quick aperture aids shooting in dim streets and cafes. However, toggling settings is slower due to fewer controls.

E-M5 II is larger but still reasonably compact for a mirrorless; the articulated screen helps creative angles. Its quieter shutter (electronic shutter up to 1/16000s) is handy.

Verdict: For pure street stealth, MX-1 edges out; for versatility and control, Olympus wins.

Macro Photography

Magnification, focusing precision, and stabilization matter.

Olympus’s focus stacking and focus bracketing features enable creative macro shots, further helped by the 5-axis IS for handheld sharpness. With compatible close-up macro lenses, it’s a strong performer.

The MX-1 can focus remarkably close (as near as 1cm) but lacks focus stacking; IS is sensor-shift but basic.

Verdict: Olympus better for serious macro work, MX-1 fine for casual close-ups.

Night / Astrophotography

Here’s where sensor size, high ISO performance, and low noise define success.

Olympus’s high ISO capability, combined with RAW support and longer exposure modes, makes it suitable for city nightscapes and bright stars. The built-in intervalometer eases star trail shooting.

MX-1 falls behind with limited ISO performance and no interval recording - not ideal for astrophotographers.

Verdict: Olympus – clear winner.

Video Capabilities

Olympus shoots Full HD 1080p up to 60 fps with clean, stable footage thanks to sensor stabilization and microphone input for external audio.

Pentax also captures Full HD at 30 fps, but lacks microphone input and advanced stabilization features.

Neither camera supports 4K video, so not for pro videographers requiring ultra-high resolution.

Verdict: Olympus offers smoother video with better audio options.

Travel Photography

Here we assess size, battery life, versatility, and durability.

Olympus’s weather sealing, articulated screen, and lens flexibility make it ideal on extended trips. Battery life around 310 shots per charge is standard for mirrorless.

MX-1’s compact convenience and bright lens appeal to travelers focused on simplicity. Battery life is slightly less (290 shots). No weather sealing means caution in rough conditions.

Verdict: Olympus offers more travel resilience; MX-1 excels in grab-and-go ease.

Professional Workflows

Professionals need RAW support, reliability, comprehensive controls, and workflow compatibility.

Olympus shoots 12-bit lossless RAW, has customizable controls, and integrates easily with popular software. Weather sealing adds reliability.

MX-1’s RAW files are workable but less flexible. Limited controls and lack of ruggedness hinder professional use.

Verdict: Olympus far better suited for demanding professional workflows.

Build Quality and Weather Resistance: Ready for Adventure?

Olympus E-M5 II is dust and splash resistant with a robust metal chassis. This environmental sealing is a boon for outdoor and travel photographers.

Pentax MX-1 boasts a sturdy body but offers no environmental protection, making it vulnerable in challenging weather.

Battery Life and Storage

Battery life is roughly equal-ish: Olympus claims 310 shots per charge, Pentax at 290. Both use proprietary rechargeable packs (BLN-1 for Olympus, D-Li-106 for Pentax).

Storage-wise, both use SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with a single slot - standard but worth noting for photographers shooting long events.

Connectivity and Wireless Features

Olympus features built-in Wi-Fi for smartphone tethering, image transfer, and remote shooting - a significant advantage in today’s connected workflows.

Pentax MX-1 supports Eye-Fi card connectivity, which historically offered wireless but is slower and less seamless than built-in Wi-Fi.

Neither camera has Bluetooth, NFC, or GPS.

Price-to-Performance Ratio: What’s the Real Value?

The Olympus E-M5 II’s retail price around $700 (used/new varies) reflects its mirrorless advanced credentials. It offers superior image quality, lens versatility, and professional features for its price point.

The Pentax MX-1 trades up on convenience and compactness at approximately $400, targeting enthusiasts wanting pocketability and simplicity, with image quality suitable for casual shooting and sharing.

Consider your priorities: top-notch image quality, expandability, and durability (Olympus), or portability and ease of use (Pentax).

Putting it All Together: Performance Summary and Rankings

Here’s where the numbers meet reality and subjective experience.

Olympus’s images impress with cleaner detail, wider dynamic range, and better noise control. Pentax produces respectable JPEGs with punchy colors but behind in shadow detail.

Olympus rates much higher overall due to sensor, autofocus, and build.

Olympus is strongly favored for portraits, landscapes, sports, wildlife, macro, and night photography. Pentax holds slight edge for street and compact travel convenience.

Who Should Buy Which Camera?

• Choose Olympus E-M5 II if You:

  • Value excellent image quality and dynamic range
  • Need weather-sealed durability for outdoor use
  • Want system expandability with interchangeable lenses
  • Shoot portraits, landscapes, wildlife, sports, or video seriously
  • Desire advanced stabilization and customizable controls
  • Benefit from built-in Wi-Fi

• Choose Pentax MX-1 if You:

  • Crave pocketable design for casual shooting or street photography
  • Prefer simple all-in-one fixed zoom with bright lens
  • Shoot mostly in good lighting and don’t need rapid autofocus
  • Are budget-conscious but want above-average compact image quality
  • Value retro styling and straightforward handling
  • Don’t mind sacrificing advanced features or weather resistance

Final Thoughts: Two Different Cameras, Two Different Journeys

After years of testing thousands of cameras, it’s clear to me that the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II and Pentax MX-1 occupy distinct niches rather than direct competition. The Olympus is a mirrorless workhorse blending portability with advanced tech - a genuine enthusiast’s tool built to evolve with your photographic ambitions. The Pentax MX-1 offers pocket-size charm and convenience with better-than-average image quality in the compact realm, ideal for enthusiasts who want less fuss and more snap-and-go.

In the end, your choice boils down to priorities. If you want a flexible, high-performance system that punches above its weight in image quality, durability, and creative control - Olympus wins. If you want a fun, capable, and stylish compact companion for everyday snapshots and street stories, the MX-1 is a worthy contender.

Either way, both have a lot to offer beyond mere specs - and that’s why, even in a market saturated with options, they remain beloved among devoted photographers.

Happy shooting!

Note: This comparison is based on extensive hands-on usage, rigorous side-by-side tests, and deep analysis of hardware and software capability. Keep in mind tech advances rapidly; newer models may offer further enhancements but the insights here reflect timeless fundamentals useful for informed buying decisions.