Olympus E-PL8 vs Samsung NX5

Olympus PEN E-PL8 vs Samsung NX5: A Hands-On Comparison for the Budget-Conscious Photographer

When it comes to entry-level mirrorless cameras, you’re often faced with a vast number of choices, many promising great value for your hard-earned cash. Today, I’m putting two budget-friendly options head-to-head: the Olympus PEN E-PL8, announced in 2016, and the Samsung NX5 from 2010. Both cameras have their roots in the early days of mirrorless systems but differ in sensor size, design approach, and features. Having spent days shooting side-by-side, testing each camera’s strengths and weaknesses across genres, I’ll offer a practical, candid assessment to help you decide which might be the better fit for your photographic endeavors.

Let’s dive into the nitty-gritty, covering everything from ergonomics to real-world performance.

First Impressions: Size, Build, and Ergonomics

Before we talk pixels and autofocus points, the experience of holding a camera often shapes whether you want to keep it long-term. Both the E-PL8 and NX5 weigh in under a kilo, but they feel quite different in hand.

The Olympus E-PL8 is a classic rangefinder-style mirrorless, sporting a compact design with clean lines and light weight - roughly 357 grams. It fits comfortably in my smaller hands and slips into a jacket pocket without fuss. The tilting touchscreen complements the minimalistic layout, even if there aren’t many physical control wheels or clubs for your thumbs.

In contrast, the Samsung NX5 embraces an SLR-style body that’s chunkier and heavier at 499 grams. With its larger grip and more robust feel, it offers a more traditional camera handling experience. However, that bulk also means less discretion if you are into street or travel photography where subtlety counts.

Honest takeaway: if portability and ease-of-carry are priorities, the Olympus will appeal more. For tactile controls and a more substantial feel, the NX5 has the edge.

Top-Down Control Layout: Ease of Use Under Pressure

Handling controls fast and intuitively makes a big difference when shooting events or wildlife. How do these cameras fare?

Olympus opted for simplicity here, prioritizing a streamlined top deck with minimal buttons. The mode dial and shutter release are well placed but you do miss dedicated dials for ISO or exposure compensation. The touchscreen partially makes up for it, but when you’re in the zone, physical controls speed things up.

Meanwhile, Samsung’s NX5 features a busier top plate, including a built-in flash and a mode dial with several scene modes for amateurs. The layout feels a bit dated compared to the E-PL8, and the buttons lack illumination, not ideal for low-light shooting.

If you’re a beginner or casual shooter who prefers touchscreen navigation and doesn’t need quick clubs for every tweak, Olympus’s design is modern and user-friendly. If you want more physical buttons for manual control (and you don’t mind the complexity), Samsung’s NX5 might suit you better.

Sensor Saga: Size, Resolution, and Image Quality

The heart of any camera is the sensor, where the image magic happens. Both cameras use CMOS sensors but differ substantially in size and resolution.

The Olympus E-PL8 uses a Four Thirds sensor measuring 17.3 x 13 mm, with 16 megapixels, while the Samsung NX5 employs a larger APS-C sensor of 23.4 x 15.6 mm with 15 megapixels.

Larger sensors typically mean better image quality, especially in low light. And from my testing, the NX5 shows a slight advantage in noise control and detail retention at higher ISOs (above 800). However, the Olympus’s newer TruePic VII processor helps it punch above its weight in color accuracy and dynamic range on well-lit scenes.

Resolution-wise, both deliver similar pixel counts (around 15-16MP), but Olympus’s native 4:3 aspect ratio produces slightly different framing compared to Samsung’s 3:2. Raw files from both are flexible for editing; Olympus offers the benefit of a more modern sensor with improved processing algorithms.

For those prioritizing image quality without a heavy price tag, the NX5’s sensor size gives it a comfortable edge, especially for landscape and low light. But Olympus’s updated processor and better color science put the E-PL8 in a respectable position for everyday shooting.

The Backside: Screens, Viewfinders, and Touch Experience

Assessing usability means a look at the rear interface. Does the camera’s screen inspire confidence when composing shots?

Olympus’s E-PL8 wins hands down with a 3-inch tilting touchscreen boasting 1,037k dots. Navigating menus, selecting autofocus points, or reviewing images is smooth and intuitive. The ability to flip the screen up helps for waist-level shots or selfies - even if it’s not marketed as “selfie-friendly.”

Samsung’s NX5 has a fixed 3-inch OLED screen, but at only 230k dots, it feels pixelated and less bright under sunlight. No touchscreen here, so menu navigation relies on buttons and dials, which can slow you down. The NX5’s electronic viewfinder offers 100% coverage and 0.57x magnification but lacked resolution details in specs, meaning the EVF feels jumpy, though it does provide handy framing assistance absent on the Olympus.

For street shooters or casual travel wanderers, the Olympus’s display is excellent, making framing and reviewing much easier. If you require a built-in EVF for shooting in bright sunlight, the Samsung NX5 scores better.

Autofocus Smackdown: Speed, Accuracy, and Face Detection

Autofocus can make or break a shoot, especially in wildlife or event photography where split-second action matters.

Olympus’s E-PL8 features contrast-detection autofocus with 81 focus points and includes face detection, selectable autofocus areas, and continuous tracking. In practice, the AF system is surprisingly responsive for its class, snapping into focus quickly in decent light, though hunting can occur in dim environments or fast action.

Samsung NX5 relies on a 15-point contrast detect array without continuous tracking and without face or eye detection - both features were just emerging in 2010. As a result, autofocus is accurate but slower, and you may find it frustrating to rely on manual focus during intricate or moving subjects.

If wildlife, sports, or portraits with sharp eye focus are your game, Olympus’s E-PL8 autofocus system promises a better experience, especially in live view mode. For casual snaps and landscapes, NX5’s AF is sufficient but trail-aged.

Shooting Speed and Burst Performance

I put both cameras through rapid-fire shooting tests to gauge responsiveness under pressure.

• Olympus E-PL8: 8 frames per second (fps) continuous shooting
• Samsung NX5: 3 fps continuous shooting

The Olympus’s faster burst rate lends itself well to action photography or capturing fleeting moments, whereas the NX5’s slower frame rate can leave you wanting during fast-moving scenes. The Olympus buffer isn’t huge but is adequate for most enthusiasts.

Sports, wildlife, or kids in motion will clearly benefit from the E-PL8’s quicker shooting speed. The NX5’s patience-demanding rate is better suited for deliberate, static compositions.

Video Capabilities: Not Just a Still Camera Anymore

Video has become a major factor in camera selection. Here’s how these two stack up.

• Olympus E-PL8 shoots Full HD 1080p at 30 fps with H.264 compression and includes image stabilization.
• Samsung NX5 maxes out at HD 720p at 30 fps, with basic H.264 encoding.

Olympus’s inclusion of sensor-based 5-axis stabilization is a standout for handheld video. The NX5 lacks stabilization entirely, which results in shakier footage unless you bring your own rig.

Neither camera has microphone or headphone jacks, limiting advanced audio capture options. Also, no 4K video here - no surprises considering price and announcement dates.

If decent Full HD video with in-camera stabilization is important for you, Olympus’s E-PL8 feels like a modern tool, while Samsung’s NX5 video options are dated and limited to casual recording.

Lens Ecosystem and Mount Considerations

You won’t get far without good glass, and here the choice of lens mount impacts future expansion.

• Olympus uses the Micro Four Thirds (MFT) mount with a robust library of 107 lenses including primes, zooms, and specialty optics from both Olympus and Panasonic.
• Samsung uses the NX mount, which had a relatively shallow lens lineup with only 32 lenses ever produced. Samsung has exited the camera business, and the NX lens support is minimal and getting rarer.

The MFT system is among the most mature mirrorless ecosystems, with excellent third-party options including affordable primes and pro-level zooms. Olympus’s compact lenses complement the camera’s small size perfectly.

Samsung’s NX system limits your lens choices dramatically. If you’re planning to grow your kit or want versatility across genres (macro, telephoto, wide), Olympus’s MFT mount is undoubtedly the safer long-term investment.

Battery Life and Storage

Practical concerns often go overlooked but matter significantly on location or travel.

Olympus E-PL8 offers approximately 350 shots per charge using its rechargeable battery pack, while the NX5 edges slightly ahead at around 400 shots. Neither is stellar by today’s standards but acceptable. Carrying an extra battery is advisable.

Both cameras use a single SD card slot supporting standard SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, with the NX5 limited to SDHC. Olympus supports more modern storage capacities.

Connectivity and Extras

Olympus includes built-in wireless connectivity, making image transfer easier via smartphone apps, a convenience for social shooters and quick sharing.

Samsung NX5 offers no built-in wireless features, meaning you’ll need to offload through USB or remove the card to access files - a real pain for fast-paced workflows.

Environmental Resistance and Durability

Neither camera offers weather sealing or rugged build quality, so be cautious shooting with either in wet or dusty environments. The Olympus E-PL8 is marginally smaller and lighter, but both are best treated gently.

Putting It All Together: Who’s the Better Buy?

The decision ultimately rests on your priorities and budget. Here’s a snapshot weighing key factors:

Real-World Photography: Genre-by-Genre Breakdown

To make my hands-on testing relatable, here’s how each camera suits the common photography disciplines:

Olympus E PL8 front Olympus E PL8 screen back Samsung NX5 screen back

Portraits

• Olympus E-PL8 wins for accurate skin tones, face detection AF, and pleasing bokeh when paired with fast MFT primes.
• Samsung NX5 does fine in good light but slower AF and fewer lens options limit creative portrait work.

Landscapes

• NX5’s APS-C sensor offers better dynamic range and higher detail in RAW files, though Olympus’s color processing is vibrant.
• Olympus benefits from compactness and tilting screen for low-angle shots.

Wildlife

• Olympus’s faster AF and burst rate aid capturing animals in motion.
• NX5’s slower AF and fewer lenses make it less favorable.

Sports

• Olympus is the better option here due to 8 fps burst and face-detect AF.

Street Photography

• Olympus’s smaller size and discreet appearance help.
• NX5, bulkier with a louder shutter, is less stealthy.

Macro

• Olympus’s newer lenses and stabilization work in your favor.
• NX5’s limited macro lens options and no stabilization are drawbacks.

Night / Astro

• NX5’s larger APS-C sensor partially wins for lower noise at high ISO.
• Olympus’s sensor stabilization helps handheld shooting but overall low-light noise is more noticeable.

Video

• Olympus shoots Full HD with stabilization, better suited to casual videographers.
• NX5 maxes at 720p with shaky footage.

Travel

• Olympus is light, portable, with wireless features - perfect for globetrotters.
• NX5 feels bulky for travel and lacks wireless connectivity.

Professional Work

• Neither is ideal for pro workflows today.
• Olympus is better integrated with current software and offers stabilized lenses.
• NX5 is mostly obsolete in pro environments.

Price-to-Performance: Value for Money

At around $500 new (and often cheaper used), both cameras are affordable gateways into mirrorless photography. Olympus provides a more modern package with improved features, while Samsung represents an older generation with a unique APS-C sensor.

If you’re a cheapskate who wants the biggest sensor for the buck, the NX5 may tempt - but you’re paying a price in outdated tech and lens ecosystem dead-end. The Olympus E-PL8, while smaller sensor, delivers a more polished, versatile, and future-proof experience.

Final Verdict: Which One Should You Choose?

Choose the Olympus PEN E-PL8 if:

• You want a lightweight, compact camera for travel, street, and casual portraits.
• You value ease of use with modern touchscreen controls.
• You need solid autofocus with face detection and faster continuous shooting.
• You want better video capabilities and image stabilization.
• You want access to a broad lens ecosystem for creative growth.
• Wireless image transfer matters for quick sharing.

Choose the Samsung NX5 if:

• You prioritize larger APS-C sensor size for landscapes or astrophotography and don’t mind slower tech.
• You can live with a clunkier, heavier body.
• You already have or can find NX lenses.
• You want a built-in EVF for bright light shooting.
• You’re okay with basic video and slower burst speeds.

In closing, my recommendation as someone who’s tested both extensively for a wide range of photography scenarios is clear: the Olympus E-PL8 is the more versatile and future-friendly option for the vast majority of users. While the Samsung NX5’s larger sensor still impresses for image quality, its dated AF system, weaker video, and limited lens line make it harder to recommend unless sensor size is your only serious priority.

Hope this helps you make an informed choice without regretting your purchase. Happy shooting!

If you want more hands-on reviews or detailed tutorials with these cameras, let me know - I’ve spent countless hours pushing both to their limits and can guide you through getting the absolute most from whichever you pick.