Olympus E-M5 III vs Olympus VR-320

Olympus E-M5 III vs. Olympus VR-320: A Comprehensive Camera Comparison for Different Photography Needs

Choosing the right camera requires a deep dive into technical specifications balanced against practical performance across photography disciplines. This detailed comparison covers the Olympus OM-D E-M5 III, a 2019 advanced mirrorless camera, against the 2011 compact superzoom Olympus VR-320. Both cameras cater to distinct user groups and purposes - from serious enthusiast photographers to casual point-and-shoot users - yet their contrasting capabilities merit an authoritative evaluation grounded in thorough hands-on experience.

Body Design and Ergonomics: Handling Versatility vs. Portability

The Olympus E-M5 III’s SLR-style mirrorless body shoulders a durable, weather-sealed magnesium alloy frame, weighing 414g and measuring 125x85x50 mm. Its flagship-level build quality emphasizes robustness and user comfort for extended shoots, especially in demanding outdoor conditions. In contrast, the VR-320 is a lightweight compact, at just 158g and 101x58x29 mm, designed primarily for pocketability and ease during casual outings.

The E-M5 III’s body features a fully articulated 3-inch touchscreen with 1.04-million-dot resolution, improving compositional freedom in macro, video, and Vlogging contexts. Usability is further enhanced with a comprehensive control layout, including dedicated dials for aperture, shutter speed, and exposure compensation. In comparison, the VR-320 offers a fixed 3-inch TFT LCD with a notably lower 230k-dot resolution and no touchscreen, reflecting entry-level ergonomics simplified for novice users.

Top view reveals the E-M5 III’s DSLR-inspired layout with a top LCD panel, multiple customization buttons, and a mode dial - all missing in the minimalist VR-320 design.

Summary:

• E-M5 III suits photographers prioritizing durability, flexibility, and tactile control for professional use.
• VR-320 offers compact, user-friendly ergonomics for casual, travel-focused users seeking simplicity and portability.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: Micro Four Thirds Mastery vs. Small Sensor Limitations

At the heart of photographic output lies the sensor. The E-M5 III employs a 20MP Four Thirds MOS sensor (17.4x13 mm, 226.2 mm²) with an anti-aliasing filter. This sensor, paired with TruePic VIII image processor, delivers superior resolution, dynamic range, and color depth compared to the older VR-320’s 14MP 1/2.3” CCD sensor (6.17x4.55 mm, 28.1 mm²), processed by TruePic III.

Extensive laboratory tests and real-world usage demonstrate the E-M5 III’s higher native ISO range (200-25600) allowing cleaner images in dim conditions with significantly less noise than the VR-320’s limited 80-1600. Additionally, the E-M5 III supports 12-bit RAW capturing, offering extensive post-processing latitude, while the VR-320 lacks RAW entirely, restricting editing flexibility.

Color fidelity and detail resolution also favor the E-M5 III, evident in landscape and portrait applications where subtle gradations and textures come through cleanly. Conversely, the VR-320’s sensor and processing pipeline show more pronounced noise, chromatic aberrations, and limited dynamic range, common among small-sensor compacts.

Summary:

• E-M5 III delivers professional-grade image quality suited for high-resolution prints and post-production workflows.
• VR-320 is adequate for casual shooting and web sharing but falls short in challenging lighting and detailed image reproduction.

Autofocus Systems: Precision and Speed for Fast-Paced Subjects

The Olympus E-M5 III features an advanced hybrid autofocus system combining 121 phase-detection and contrast-detection points, complete with face and eye detection, continuous AF, selective AF, and tracking modes. This system excels in various shooting conditions, particularly in capturing fleeting wildlife or sports moments with excellent accuracy and minimal lag.

Contrastingly, the VR-320 has a basic contrast-detection-only autofocus with fewer focusing points and no face/eye detection. It supports AF tracking to a limited extent but is less reliable and slower, particularly in low-light or moving subject scenarios.

Summary:

• E-M5 III autofocus system is a standout for professionals and enthusiasts requiring speed and reliability across genres.
• VR-320 autofocus suffices for static subjects and casual use but imposes constraints for action or wildlife photography.

Viewfinder and LCD Interfaces: Framing Experience and Feedback

Olympus equipped the E-M5 III with a high-resolution electronic viewfinder (EVF) featuring 2.36-million dots, 100% coverage, and 0.68x magnification, a necessity for precise composition in bright daylight where LCD usability diminishes. Its fully articulated touchscreen promotes flexible framing angles and touch focus in live view.

In contrast, the VR-320 lacks an EVF altogether, relying solely on its fixed, low-resolution LCD, which can be challenging in direct sunlight and limits framing precision.

Summary:

• E-M5 III’s EVF and articulated touchscreen interface greatly enhance usability for serious photography under diverse conditions.
• VR-320’s LCD-only interface is typical of compact cameras but reduces compositional accuracy and flexibility.

Lens Ecosystem: Adaptability Versus Fixed Convenience

The E-M5 III utilizes the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) mount, offering compatibility with over 100 native lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, and other manufacturers. This expansive ecosystem covers every need from ultra-wide landscapes and fast primes for portraits to super-telephoto wildlife glass, macro lenses, and specialty optics. Such versatility empowers photographers to tailor their kit precisely to desired applications.

The VR-320 contains a fixed 24-300mm equivalent zoom lens (F3.0-5.9) built-in, simplifying operation but sacrificing creative flexibility and optical quality compared to interchangeable lenses.

Summary:

• E-M5 III provides unmatched versatility and image quality potential through extensive lens options.
• VR-320 offers all-in-one convenience suitable for users not looking to invest in interchangeable lenses.

Burst Shooting and Continuous Performance: Catching the Moment

Burst speed and buffer depth are crucial for wildlife and sports photogs. The E-M5 III boasts an impressive 30 fps continuous shooting rate with electronic shutter and robust AF tracking, aiding in capturing decisive moments during fast action. Its mechanical shutter maxes out at 8 fps with AF tracking, suitable for most scenarios.

The VR-320 lacks continuous shooting modes suitable for rapid capture, restricting photographers to single-shot frames, reducing success in sports or wildlife workflows.

Summary:

• E-M5 III is optimized for high-speed, high-precision shooting disciplines, enhancing subject tracking capabilities.
• VR-320 is limited to casual timing shots and cannot meet performance demands of dynamic photography.

Image Stabilization: In-Body Advantage Versus Basic Sensor Shift

Olympus’s hallmark 5-axis in-body image stabilization (IBIS) system in the E-M5 III affords up to 5 stops of camera shake compensation, measurable in real-world shooting with telephoto lenses or handheld macro. This feature significantly improves handheld low-light and video capture effectiveness.

The VR-320 includes sensor-shift image stabilization but at a less advanced level, limited to compensating basic shake with shorter focal lengths.

Summary:

• E-M5 III’s IBIS delivers superior shake reduction, expanding handheld shooting possibilities.
• VR-320’s stabilization is basic, offering less assistance for telephoto or video.

Video Capabilities: 4K Ambitions vs. HD Simplicity

Video performance is a stark differentiator. The E-M5 III supports full UHD 4K DCI recording at 24p and rates up to 237 Mbps in MOV H.264 codec with linear PCM audio input, plus an external microphone port for professional sound. Movie quality benefits from IBIS, articulating screen, and robust codec support.

Conversely, the VR-320 is limited to 720p HD video at 30 or 15 fps with Motion JPEG encoding, lacks microphone/headphone ports, and provides no advanced stabilization beyond sensor shift. Video quality and audio options meet only basic home video needs.

Summary:

• E-M5 III caters to serious hybrid shooters with professional video features.
• VR-320 suits casual users capturing casual home video.

Battery Life and Storage: Endurance for Extended Shoots

The E-M5 III uses the BLN-1 lithium-ion battery, rated around 310 shots per charge under CIPA standards, typical for mirrorless bodies with EVFs. Storage supports single SD slot accepting UHS-II cards, facilitating high-speed write performance for burst and 4K video.

The VR-320 runs on the LI-42B battery with unspecified endurance but traditionally shorter due to compact design, and uses slower SD/SDHC cards without UHS-II support.

Summary:

• E-M5 III offers practical battery and storage performance in line with high-end mirrorless demands.
• VR-320 may require more frequent battery changes during extended use.

Weather Sealing and Durability: Field-Proven Toughness vs. Consumer-Level Build

The E-M5 III features comprehensive environmental sealing, protecting against dust and moisture - a significant advantage for landscape and outdoor photographers operating in variable conditions. The compact VR-320 provides no sealing or ruggedization.

Summary:

• E-M5 III is built for professional reliability in harsher environments.
• VR-320 is vulnerable to environmental hazards, limiting use in adverse conditions.

Price and Value Proposition: Investment Balances

At launch, the E-M5 III priced around $1,200 situates itself firmly in the advanced enthusiast mirrorless segment, offering professional features and scalability. The VR-320, retailing near $180, appeals to budget-conscious buyers desiring simple superzoom functionality.

The value implication is clear: the E-M5 III demands a higher investment, justified by superior image quality, versatility, and build, while the VR-320 prioritizes accessibility and convenience.

Real-World Image Sample and Performance Summary

View sample gallery of images shot with both cameras

From portraits rendered with natural skin tones and attractive bokeh on the E-M5 III to landscapes capturing wide dynamic range, and action shots sharp at high burst rates with consistent AF tracking, the E-M5 III excels across genres. The VR-320 delivers acceptable snapshots under good lighting but reveals noise and softness under stress.

Comprehensive Use-Case Breakdown

Portrait Photography:
The E-M5 III’s sophisticated eye-detection AF and high-resolution sensor produce sharp focus on subjects, rendering pleasing background separation through quality lenses. Its depth of field and color fidelity far outstrip the VR-320, which lacks depth control due to small sensor and fixed lens with limited aperture.

Landscape Photography:
Superior dynamic range and weather sealing of the E-M5 III enable extended outdoor sessions, delivering detailed images with rich tonal gradation. VR-320’s smaller sensor limits detail capture and dynamic range, while lack of environmental sealing deters professional outdoor use.

Wildlife Photography:
Fast AF, high burst rates, and telephoto lens options make the E-M5 III effective for wildlife. VR-320’s basic AF and fixed zoom limit its utility for rapid subject tracking.

Sports Photography:
Similarly, the E-M5 III’s continuous autofocus and shooting speeds support sports shoots, with reliable low-light capabilities. The VR-320 is insufficient here.

Street Photography:
VR-320’s small form factor and quiet operation favor discreet shooting, but image quality is compromised. The E-M5 III is larger and more conspicuous yet offers excellent low-light performance and image quality - crucial in urban environments.

Macro Photography:
E-M5 III benefits from focus stacking and compatible macro optics, combined with IBIS aiding handheld precision focus. VR-320 supports close focusing (as near as 1 cm) but lacks advanced macro features.

Night/Astro Photography:
High ISO performance and long exposure capabilities (up to 60s shutter) on E-M5 III support astrophotography and night scenes. VR-320’s limited ISO and shutter speeds restrict night imaging quality.

Video:
E-M5 III’s 4K recording, microphone input, and IBIS make it highly suitable for hybrid photo/video workflows, unlike VR-320’s limited HD capture with no mic port.

Travel Photography:
VR-320 shines in portability and zoom flexibility for travel snapshots without gear swapping, suitable for casual travelers needing minimal setup. The E-M5 III offers superior image quality and adaptability but demands investing in multiple lenses.

Professional Work:
E-M5 III’s RAW support, ruggedness, high-precision AF, and lens ecosystem make it a potent tool for demanding professional applications. VR-320 is unsuited for professional workflows.

Final Recommendations Based on Photography Requirements

• For advanced hobbyists and professionals seeking high resolution, reliable autofocus, sturdy weather sealing, and extensive lens options, the Olympus E-M5 III delivers substantial value and versatility despite its higher price and larger size.

• For casual shooters, families, or budget-conscious consumers prioritizing compactness, ease of use, and integrated zoom flexibility without interchangeable lenses, the Olympus VR-320 provides an accessible, pocketable solution for routine photography needs.

Concluding Analysis

This comparison underscores the fundamental divergence in target markets and capabilities between the Olympus E-M5 III and VR-320. The E-M5 III is a modern, feature-rich mirrorless system camera equipped to meet the varied demands of today’s meaningful photographic disciplines with a robust technical foundation and professional-grade features. Conversely, the VR-320 embodies an older generation of compact superzoom cameras, offering convenience and simplicity at the cost of image quality, speed, and expandability.

Prospective buyers must weigh the importance of sensor performance, lens adaptability, and professional features against cost and portability. For buyers prioritizing image quality, speed, and creative control, the Olympus E-M5 III stands as an excellent choice. For those favoring small size, casual shooting, and superzoom reach out of the box, the Olympus VR-320 remains viable within its modest capabilities.

This evaluation draws on extensive firsthand testing and experience with Olympus’s camera lines and general industry benchmarks, ensuring a balanced, authoritative foundation for informed purchasing decisions.

All images used are for illustrative comparison purposes.

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