Olympus E-PL5 vs Sony Cyber-shot W710: A Hands-On Comparison for the Practical Photographer

Selecting between cameras from different categories - an entry-level mirrorless and a compact point-and-shoot - can be a nuanced task. I've spent many hours with the Olympus PEN E-PL5 and the Sony Cyber-shot DSC-W710, testing them across diverse photography situations. What follows is a meticulous comparison grounded in real-world usage, technical assessment, and practical value for enthusiasts and professionals alike.

First Impressions: Design, Size, and Handling

Our journey begins with the camera bodies themselves. The Olympus E-PL5 hails from a rangefinder-style mirrorless lineage, while the Sony W710 is a simple compact aimed at casual shooters.

The Olympus E-PL5 measures roughly 111 x 64 x 38 mm, weighing 325 grams without a lens. Its compact size makes it easy to carry, but its solid grip and slightly bulkier frame hint at serious functionality under the hood. The tilting 3-inch touchscreen adds versatility for creative angles and self-portraits.

Conversely, the Sony W710 is smaller and lighter - 97 x 55 x 20 mm and only 114 grams. It’s pocket-friendly and readily accessible, built for snapping quick memories rather than deliberate image crafting.

The feel in hand is telling. The E-PL5’s textured grip, physical dials, and well-placed buttons lend confidence for longer sessions. The W710 keeps things minimalistic: zoom lever, shutter release, and a few basic controls. No manual exposure modes here.

Ergonomically, the Olympus positions controls logically for photographers who appreciate dial-driven operation and tactile feedback. Sony’s controls are straightforward but limited, aiming for simplicity rather than customization.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

When I tested these cameras, the sensor is where the Olympus E-PL5 holds a clear advantage.

The E-PL5 uses a 16MP Four Thirds CMOS sensor, sized at approximately 17.3 x 13 mm, an area of 225 mm². This sensor, paired with Micro Four Thirds lenses, delivers a notable improvement in image quality compared to small-compact point-and-shoots.

The Sony W710 sports a smaller 1/2.3" CCD sensor measuring just 6.17 x 4.55 mm (28 mm²), an order of magnitude smaller. While it also captures 16MP, the smaller sensor size limits dynamic range, color depth, and noise handling, especially in low-light environments.

DXOMark’s scoring places the E-PL5’s overall image quality ahead, particularly in dynamic range (12.3 EV vs untested for the W710) and color depth (22.8 bits vs untested). The W710’s CCD sensor and smaller pixel pitch lead to noisier images at ISOs beyond 400.

In practice, this translates to richer tonal gradation and cleaner shadows with Olympus. For landscapes and portraits - where details and color fidelity matter - the E-PL5’s sensor and lens combination decisively benefit the photographer.

LCD and Viewfinder: Composition Tools Explored

The cameras differ markedly in their framing interfaces.

The Olympus offers a 3-inch, 460k-dot tilting touchscreen LCD - ideal for low-angle shoots or spontaneous selfies. Touch-to-focus works reliably and speeds up operation. The screen’s resolution provides good clarity for image review and menu navigation.

The Sony W710’s LCD is fixed at 2.7 inches with 230k-dot resolution - modest and less responsive. Its interface is simple, but the screen can be challenging under bright daylight, and you lose the tilt flexibility useful for creative compositions.

Neither has a built-in viewfinder, but the E-PL5 optionally supports external electronic viewfinders, which can be invaluable for shooting in direct sun or for those who prefer traditional eye-level composing.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed and Precision

Autofocus (AF) capabilities are essential in choosing a camera, particularly when capturing action or fleeting moments.

The Olympus E-PL5 employs a contrast-detection AF system with 35 focus points. While not using hybrid phase detection, its AF performs admirably for its generation. Face detection and continuous autofocus tracking aid in portrait and video work. In the field, I found its focus accurate and responsive in daylight, with continuous AF maintaining sharpness on moving subjects at moderate speeds.

On the other hand, Sony’s W710 utilizes contrast-detection AF with fewer focus points (not specified). Its AF lock speed is slower, and it struggles to keep up with subjects moving away from the camera. Continuous AF is absent, meaning manual capture timing becomes critical - a drawback for wildlife or sports enthusiasts.

Burst shooting rates also reflect the cameras’ target users: Olympus shoots 8 frames per second, good for casual sports or wildlife, though with limited buffer; Sony offers just 1 fps, emphasizing its role as a snapshot camera.

Lens Ecosystem and Flexibility: The Glass That Shapes Photos

This is where the Olympus E-PL5 truly differentiates itself.

Its Micro Four Thirds mount offers compatibility with over 107 lenses, from ultra-wide primes to powerful telephotos, and fast apertures for shallow depth of field and creative control. Support for manual focus lenses, focus bracketing, and optional in-body stabilization make it versatile for macro, portraits, and more.

In contrast, the Sony W710 has a fixed 28-140mm equivalent zoom lens with a variable aperture of f/3.2-6.5. While this range covers most everyday scenarios, it’s limited by slow apertures - hard to get solid subject isolation or low-light performance. Macro focusing close to 10cm is decent for casual flower shots but lacks precision.

For photographers seeking creative flexibility or lens upgrades, the Olympus is an obvious winner.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing: Durability in Real-Life Use

Neither camera boasts weather sealing or ruggedized construction, but the Olympus’ build inspires more confidence for mission-critical shoots.

The E-PL5’s metal chassis and quality feel withstand moderate wear. Its size also encourages the use of wrist or neck straps, reducing the risk of drops. The Sony, though compact and pocketable, feels plasticky, a trade-off for its ultra-lightweight design.

Neither is freezeproof, shockproof, or waterproof, so outdoor shooters in challenging environments should consider protective accessories.

Battery Life and Storage: Longevity on the Go

The Olympus E-PL5 uses the BLS-5 battery, delivering an average of 360 shots per charge per CIPA standards. Real-world shooting with image review and flash usage typically yields around 300 shots, which is satisfactory for casual day trips or portrait sessions.

The Sony W710’s NP-BN battery offers about 240 shots, fewer than Olympus but not surprising considering the small sensor and fewer system functions.

Both utilize a single SD/SDHC/SDXC card slot; however, it’s worth noting the W710 supports Memory Stick formats, a Sony-specific feature, potentially limiting for users invested in standard SD cards.

Connectivity and Wireless Features: Staying Connected

The Olympus incorporates “Eye-Fi” wireless card compatibility, enabling Wi-Fi transfer if paired with supported cards. However, it lacks built-in Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, GPS, or NFC.

Sony’s W710 provides no wireless connectivity - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or GPS features - which restricts instant image sharing possibilities.

For modern workflows where quick sharing or remote shooting is desired, neither is ideal, but Olympus edges ahead due to the option for Eye-Fi integration.

Video Capabilities: More Than Still Photography

Video enthusiasts will find subtle but important differences.

The Olympus E-PL5 records Full HD 1080p at 30fps using MPEG-4 and Motion JPEG codecs. It supports touch AF during video recording, enhancing subject acquisition without zoom hunting. However, it lacks external microphone support or headphone monitoring, limiting audio quality control.

Sony W710 shoots HD 720p at 30fps and supports AVCHD format, popular at its release time, producing relatively efficient files. There is no microphone input, and AF is single-shot only, offering limited versatility for video shooters.

Neither camera has image stabilization optimized explicitly for video, though Olympus’ sensor-shift stabilization helps somewhat with handheld footage.

Photography Use Cases: Matching Camera Strengths to Genres

How do these differences translate across photographic disciplines? Let’s break it down.

Olympus E PL5 front Olympus E PL5 screen back Sony W710 front Sony W710 screen back

Portrait Photography

Olympus E-PL5’s larger sensor and access to fast primes deliver beautifully rendered skin tones and creamy bokeh impossible for the Sony compact. Face and eye detection AF make capturing candid expressions easier. Sony’s limited aperture and smaller sensor restrict background separation and fine detail.

Landscape Photography

Dynamic range is critical here. The E-PL5’s wider sensor and greater DR capture high-contrast scenes better, preserving shadows and highlights. Weather sealing is absent but the metal body feels rugged enough for outdoor use. Sony’s compact size is attractive for travel, but image quality suffers from noise and limited resolution detail.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

The Olympus’ 8 fps shooting and contrast AF with tracking give it a modest edge for action. It is still not a dedicated sports camera but sufficient for casual wildlife enthusiasts. The Sony W710 is unreliable at tracking fast subjects with its slow, single-shot AF and 1 fps burst rate.

Street Photography

Sony’s size and quiet operation suit street photography well. Its discreet profile and portability allow candid shooting without intimidation. The Olympus, while larger, remains stealthy compared to DSLRs, and its manual controls offer more creative freedom. However, the lack of an EVF in both is a slight hinderance under bright conditions.

Macro Photography

The Olympus with interchangeable lenses supports dedicated macro optics and focus stacking via third-party software. The W710’s 10cm macro focus is basic but serviceable for casual close-ups. Olympus’ sensor stabilization also aids in handheld sharpness.

Night and Astro Photography

Here, the Olympus again outshines with its better high ISO capabilities (native up to ISO 25600), manual exposure modes, and RAW files critical for post-processing faint night details. The Sony is limited by small sensor noise and lack of manual shutter control.

Video Production

Olympus’ Full HD video, touch AF, and sensor stabilization yield more usable clips for enthusiasts. Sony’s 720p max res and limited AF restrict video quality. Neither is suited for professional video work without external rigs.

Travel Photography

Sony’s pocketable W710 excels in convenience and simplicity for tourists. Olympus’ greater versatility and image quality come with a size and weight tradeoff but reward demanding travelers seeking creativity.

Professional Use

Only the Olympus E-PL5 offers RAW capture and manual exposure modes, prerequisites for professional workflows. Lack of weather sealing and advanced video are limiting, but overall, it can serve as a solid secondary or light-duty camera. The Sony W710 is firmly consumer-grade for snapshots.

Scorecard: Summarizing Strengths Across Criteria

Specialized Performance in Different Genres

• Portrait: Olympus strong due to sensor and autofocus
• Landscape: Olympus excels on DR and detail
• Wildlife: Olympus better continuous AF and frame rate
• Sports: Olympus capable but limited buffer
• Street: Sony for portability; Olympus for flexibility
• Macro: Olympus superior with lens options
• Night/Astro: Olympus favored for ISO and exposure control
• Video: Olympus better resolution and AF
• Travel: Sony for pocket ease; Olympus for quality
• Professional: Olympus meets basic pro needs; Sony no

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Choosing between the Olympus PEN E-PL5 and Sony Cyber-shot W710 boils down to what the photographer values most.

Choose the Olympus E-PL5 if you:

• Desire solid image quality with control over exposure and raw files
• Want flexibility of interchangeable lenses for different genres
• Shoot portraits, landscapes, macro, or low-light scenes seriously
• Appreciate manual controls and a tilting touchscreen
• Can accommodate a slightly larger body and higher budget (~$400)

Opt for the Sony W710 if:

• You want a simple, ultra-compact point-and-shoot for casual everyday use
• Budget is tight (~$90 used prices, new maybe higher)
• Portability and ease of operation with basic zoom suffice
• No need for advanced controls, RAW files, or high image fidelity

As with all precise gear comparisons, your individual priorities determine the best tool. For photography enthusiasts seeking growth and creative expression, the Olympus E-PL5 far outperforms the W710 in image quality, versatility, and performance. Meanwhile, Sony’s W710 delivers dependable, no-frills convenience to complement casual snapshots or travel light.

If you’re weighing portability against capability, think about whether you want the “good boy” compact or the much more capable “workhorse” mirrorless in your shooting bag.

In Summary: The Real-World Verdict

The Olympus E-PL5 remains a compelling entry-level mirrorless camera that punches above its weight for shooters stepping up from compacts or smartphones. Meanwhile, the Sony W710, while dated and limited, excels as a basic pocket camera for minimal fuss.

Jumping from the Sony W710 to Olympus E-PL5 represents a significant step up in every meaningful photographic aspect, though it demands a bigger investment and a learning curve.

Photography is a lifelong journey, and selecting the right gear should reflect your passion and intended use. I hope this thorough comparison aids your decision to equip yourself wisely - because every photo deserves to be captured at its best.

Thanks for joining me in this deep dive. Happy shooting!