Olympus OM-D E-M5 vs Sony Alpha DSLR-A500: A Hands-On Expert Comparison for Thoughtful Photographers

In the quest for the ideal camera, you’re often navigating choices between mirrorless innovators and classic DSLRs, each bringing distinct strengths and limitations. Here, we put face-to-face two cameras that represent pivotal design philosophies from their eras: the Olympus OM-D E-M5 - an advanced mirrorless system launched in 2012 - and the Sony Alpha DSLR-A500, an APS-C DSLR from 2009.

Having rigorously tested both models across genres, shooting scenarios, and workflows, we’ll help you make an informed decision - whether you seek compact versatility, image quality, or specialized features.

First Impressions: Design and Ergonomics That Shape Your Experience

Choosing a camera starts with how it feels in your hand - size, weight, and control layout influence shooting ease and user confidence.

• Olympus E-M5 is an SLR-style mirrorless with a compact body measuring 122x89x43 mm, weighing a mere 425 g. It’s remarkably pocketable compared to many enthusiast cameras.
• Sony A500, by contrast, is a bulkier entry-level DSLR at 137x104x84 mm and 630 g - significant heft and girth that might challenge prolonged handheld use but offers traditional DSLR grip familiarity.

Despite the smaller size, the Olympus impresses with thoughtfully placed, customizable buttons and a tilting touchscreen OLED display. The Sony’s top layout features classic DSLR dials and fewer direct-access buttons, suited for users preferring manual control.

Ergonomically, if you value portability and modern interface elements - particularly touchscreen interaction - the Olympus E-M5 delivers. However, if you prefer the substantial grip and tactile reassurance of a DSLR with optical viewfinder, the Sony A500 appeals.

Sensor and Image Quality: Balancing Resolution, Size, and Performance

At the heart of any camera is its sensor, dictating image resolution, dynamic range, noise performance, and color depth.

The Four Thirds sensor of the Olympus trades size for compactness but includes newer processing technology (TruePic VI) that elevates its output quality. While smaller, the E-M5 delivers surprising dynamic range and color fidelity that, for many genres including portraits and landscapes, competes effectively with the larger APS-C sensor of the Sony A500.

The Sony’s APS-C sensor benefits from larger photosites, supporting cleaner files at low ISOs and slightly better high-ISO noise performance. However, at ISO 1600 and above, the E-M5’s advanced stabilization and denoising algorithms help narrow the gap.

If ultimate pixel-level sharpness and sensor area matter (e.g., large print landscapes), the Sony’s APS-C sensor has a modest edge. For versatile shooting in dynamic ranges demanding shadow and highlight detail preservation, the Olympus shines.

Viewfinders and LCD Advantages: How You Frame Your Shot

The experience of composing and reviewing shots deeply impacts your creative workflow.

• Olympus E-M5 offers a bright Electronic Viewfinder (EVF) with a 1440k dot resolution, 100% coverage, and 0.58x magnification. The EVF preview supports live exposure simulation, focus peaking, and real-time histogram overlays.
• Sony A500 relies on an Optical Viewfinder (OVF) with approximately 95% coverage and 0.53x magnification - a fundamental DSLR trait offering natural, lag-free view under all conditions but lack of exposure preview.

Both cameras feature a 3-inch tilting LCD, but the Olympus incorporates a higher resolution touchscreen (610k dots) with electrostatic capacitive technology, enhancing intuitive focus selection and menu navigation. The Sony’s LCD is fixed with 230k dots and lacks touch capabilities.

For photographers who appreciate immediate feedback and digital overlays in the viewfinder, the Olympus’s EVF is a substantial upgrade. If you prize natural optical viewing and longer battery life due to EVF omission, the Sony’s OVF remains compelling.

Autofocus: Precision, Speed, and Tracking for Your Subjects

Autofocus systems have evolved explosively, making or breaking your ability to seize fleeting moments.

Olympus’s mirrorless design allows on-sensor contrast-detection AF with face & eye detection, and surprisingly responsive continuous AF modes. Tracking accuracy for moving subjects is good, but contrast detect can lag under low contrast scenes.

Sony’s 9-point phase detection autofocus, although limited in points, benefits from traditional DSLR accuracy and faster lock-on speeds in good light. However, lack of AF tracking limits continuous focus performance for wildlife or sports.

For portraits prioritizing eye focus and landscapes requiring static accuracy, both cameras excel. For wildlife or sports where subject movement is unpredictable, Sony’s phase detection AF provides more reliable initial locking but less dynamic tracking.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Ready for Adventure or Studio?

Your camera’s durability determines how far it can join you on creative adventures.

• Olympus E-M5 incorporates comprehensive weather sealing - resistant to dust and moisture - affording confidence shooting outdoors in challenging conditions.
• Sony A500 lacks environmental sealing, requiring caution in inclement weather or dusty environments.

Both are well-built, but Olympus uses magnesium alloy construction for enhanced rigour. The Sony body is plastic-heavy to keep weight down but remains sturdy overall.

This factor makes E-M5 a standout choice if you often shoot landscapes, travel, or outdoor events under variable weather.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: The Breadth of Creative Tools

A camera’s potential blooms or fades depending on lenses available.

The Olympus micro four-thirds mount was groundbreaking in expanding compact, advanced lenses earlier this decade. Its smaller sensor multiplier doubles focal lengths but enables smaller, lighter lenses with excellent optical performance, particularly for travel and street.

Sony’s APS-C DSLR mount benefits from an older, broader lens base, including classic Minolta glass and many third-party options. Although lenses tend to be larger to cover APS-C and some full-frame compatibility, you gain access to a vast selection with a proven pedigree.

Neither system is behind by any means, but your choice may depend on whether you prioritize compactness (Olympus) or traditional DSLR lens availability (Sony).

Performance in Key Photography Genres

Understanding how each camera performs in real-world photography disciplines can clarify which suits your purpose.

Sample Image Gallery: Visual Evidence From Each Camera

Examining direct image samples under the same scenarios gives crucial insight. Our gallery shows portraits, landscapes, and low light samples taken with both cameras, illustrating:

• E-M5’s color fidelity and sharpness, especially in dynamic lighting.
• A500’s depth and natural out-of-camera JPEG tonality.

Olympus E M5 front Olympus E M5 screen back Sony A500 front Sony A500 screen back

Video Capabilities: Mirrorless Takes the Lead

The Olympus E-M5 supports:

• Full HD 1080p recording at 60fps
• H.264 codec for efficient compression
• Stabilized footage thanks to 5-axis IBIS (In-Body Image Stabilization)
• No external mic or headphone ports, limiting advanced audio control

The Sony A500 does not support video capture - a clear disadvantage if hybrid stills + video use is a factor.

For vloggers and content creators, the Olympus is a modern, workable option within its era.

Battery Life and Storage: Practical Everyday Considerations

Despite mirrorless electronics consuming more power, the Sony’s DSLR design enables longer battery life - a benefit for extended shooting sessions without charging. Olympus users can compensate by carrying spares, but this is a factor if traveling remote.

Connectivity and Workflow Integration

• Olympus E-M5 offers Eye-Fi card support (for wireless photo transfers) and standard USB 2.0 and HDMI output.
• Sony A500 lacks wireless options but provides USB 2.0 and HDMI.

Neither model includes Bluetooth, NFC, or GPS, reflecting their generation.

If you value wireless tethering or quick social media uploads, the Olympus’s limited wireless option can assist but modern solutions will require aftermarket accessories.

Performance Summary and Ratings: A Data-Driven Overview

Our combined lab testing and field assessments deliver the following summary scores:

• Olympus OM-D E-M5 scores higher for versatility, image processing, video, and portability.
• Sony A500 scores well on battery endurance and classical DSLR handling but trails in modern features.

Specialized Performance Across Photography Genres

Breaking down capabilities with tailored scoring:

Who Should Choose Which?

Olympus OM-D E-M5 - Best For:

• Enthusiasts seeking compact, versatile mirrorless with modern tech
• Portrait and landscape photographers focused on dynamic range and detail
• Travel photographers prioritizing weather sealing and portability
• Hybrid shooters wanting 1080p video with in-body stabilization
• Users desiring a responsive touchscreen and EVF preview

Sony Alpha DSLR-A500 - Best For:

• Beginners and hobbyists preferring a traditional DSLR experience
• Photographers needing long battery life for extended shoots
• Budget-conscious buyers looking for an inexpensive DSLR body with solid build
• Those invested in the Sony/Minolta A-mount lens ecosystem
• Users content with still photography only and less emphasis on video

Final Thoughts: Contextualizing Your Purchase Decision

Both the Olympus E-M5 and Sony A500 stand as hallmark cameras of their generation, illustrating how design philosophy and technology priorities shape photographic tools.

The Olympus E-M5 remains a forward-looking, adaptable camera that offers image quality, modern controls, and weather-resistant durability in a remarkably compact form factor. Its system encourages creativity across genres, including video and night photography, making it an excellent choice for photographers ready to embrace mirrorless innovation with a seasoned platform.

The Sony A500 symbolizes solid DSLR fundamentals, wielding a larger APS-C sensor and proven handling in a more traditional package, yet lacking some modern features present in mirrorless successors. It’s respectable for still photographers valuing battery endurance and an existing lens lineup without needing video or wireless features.

As with any camera decision, the best way forward is hands-on testing with your lenses and shooting style - try both cameras to gauge fit and feel for your workflow demands. Accessorize accordingly and embrace the distinct creative paths these models unlock.

Happy shooting!

Appendices

Quick Specs Comparison Table

The cameras reviewed here are seminal models worth considering even a decade after launch for photographers appreciating build quality and image excellence within a budget. For forward-looking investment, newer iterations or current models build upon these foundations, but the fundamentals tested remain crucial to your informed decision.

Feel free to check out sample images and handle units in-store where possible, and consider which features align best with your shooting style before committing. Both cameras invite you to explore photography deeply - your creative journey awaits!