Olympus E-M5 vs Olympus PEN-F

The following is a comprehensive analysis of the Olympus E-M5 vs Olympus PEN-F, both Advanced Mirrorless digital cameras and they are both built by Olympus. The image resolution of the E-M5 (16MP) and the PEN-F (20MP) is very similar and they use the same exact sensor sizes (Four Thirds).

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The E-M5 was launched 4 years before the PEN-F which is quite a large gap as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-M5 being a SLR-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus PEN-F being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before getting through a full comparison, below is a quick summary of how the E-M5 scores against the PEN-F in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a sample of the gallery pics for Olympus OM-D E-M5 and Olympus PEN-F. The complete galleries are available at Olympus E-M5 Gallery and Olympus PEN-F Gallery.

When you are aiming to travel with your camera often, you have to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-M5 has physical dimensions of 122mm x 89mm x 43mm (4.8" x 3.5" x 1.7") and a weight of 425 grams (0.94 lbs) while the Olympus PEN-F has proportions of 125mm x 72mm x 37mm (4.9" x 2.8" x 1.5") along with a weight of 427 grams (0.94 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-M5 vs Olympus PEN-F in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you have during that time. Underneath is the front view size comparison of the E-M5 and the PEN-F.

Looking at size and weight, the portability score of the E-M5 and PEN-F is 81 and 84 respectively.

Generally, it is hard to picture the difference between sensor dimensions simply by going over specifications. The picture below will provide you a more clear sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-M5 and PEN-F.

To sum up, the two cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but different MP. You should expect to see the Olympus PEN-F to offer more detail utilizing its extra 4MP. Greater resolution will also help you crop photos far more aggressively. The more aged E-M5 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.