Olympus E-PM1 vs Panasonic GF8: The Entry-Level Micro Four Thirds Showdown

Choosing your next mirrorless camera can feel a bit like standing at a crossroads, especially when two contenders like the Olympus PEN E-PM1 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF8 sit on either side. Both belong to the Micro Four Thirds family, catering to entry-level mirrorless buyers, yet they reflect different eras and design philosophies. After extensively testing these models, I’m here to guide you through an in-depth, no-nonsense comparison across all key areas of photography and camera performance, so you can confidently pick the one that’s right for you.

Let’s dive in.

First Impressions: Size, Feel, and Handling

Before we get into the specs, it’s critical to talk ergonomics and design - these define how you feel about a camera when holding it for hours.

At a glance, both cameras are compact and reflect the classic rangefinder silhouette. The Olympus E-PM1 measures 110 x 64 x 34mm and weighs 265g, while the Panasonic GF8 is a hair smaller at 107 x 65 x 33mm, tipping the scales at 266g. So, in sheer dimensions and weight, they're pretty neck-and-neck.

However, where they diverge is grip and control layout. The E-PM1 embraces a minimalist approach, with a relatively flat front plate and modest thumb rest. It’s comfortable for quick walks and casual shooting but can feel a bit undersized in my medium-sized hands after a few hours.

Comparatively, the GF8 features a slightly more contoured grip that offers better stability. I found it easier to hold tightly, especially when paired with a longer lens. Plus, the GF8’s body shape slightly tapers towards the base, improving balance - a subtle but important ergonomic win, particularly for travel photography.

You’ll want to factor in how these differences will affect your shooting style. For street or travel, the GF8’s better grip and pebble-like body help maintain steadiness. But the E-PM1’s lighter, flatter form might appeal to those who want to keep things as slim and unobtrusive as possible.

Top View Showdown: Controls That Speed Up Your Workflow

How a camera’s buttons and dials are organized can make or break your shooting experience, especially when rapid adjustments are a must.

The Olympus tops out with a clean, classic rangefinder style: a mode dial prominently placed beside the shutter button, plus quick access to exposure compensation and playback controls. I particularly appreciate the tactile clickiness of the mode dial, which makes one-handed operation easy without looking.

On the flipside, the Panasonic GF8 takes a slightly more modern approach. It lacks a traditional mode dial but incorporates a well-placed control dial combined with touch-screen functionality, enabling quick shifts between shooting modes and settings. The shutter button is recessed a touch for accident prevention, plus there’s a dedicated movie record button right next to it - a hint at Panasonic’s focus on video.

For those who rely heavily on manual exposure modes or frequently switch between aperture- and shutter-priority, the E-PM1’s physical dial feels more intuitive and less fiddly. If you’re into touch-driven interfaces and quick access to video modes, the GF8’s layout edges ahead.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Image quality is the critical battlefield. Both cameras sport Micro Four Thirds-sized CMOS sensors measuring 17.3 x 13 mm (about 225 mm² sensor area). Still, resolution and processing technology differ substantially, echoing their generation gap.

The Olympus E-PM1 offers a 12-megapixel sensor paired with the TruePic VI processor. This sensor has a traditional Bayer filter and includes an anti-aliasing filter to prevent moiré at the cost of slight softness. While the image quality holds up well for web and small prints, it falls short in fine detail rendering and high ISO performance by modern standards. The E-PM1 maxes out at ISO 12800, but practically, noise becomes a major factor beyond ISO 1600, limiting its usefulness in low light.

By contrast, the Panasonic GF8 steps up to a 16-megapixel sensor (also Four Thirds size) combined with the Venus Engine processor. The extra megapixels contribute to sharper images with more detail resolution, particularly beneficial for cropping landscapes or portraits. The GF8 also extends ISO sensitivity up to 25600, and while noise kicks in above ISO 3200, its noise reduction algorithms are more advanced, delivering cleaner photos in dim scenarios.

In my field tests shooting RAW files under various lighting, the GF8’s files demonstrate greater dynamic range - shadows bring out more detail, and highlights retain nuanced tonality. It’s a significant win for landscape and event photographers who crave flexibility.

Color depth, critical for rich skin tones and subtle color gradations, rates slightly higher in the Olympus due to its TruePic VI, but differences are marginal and often masked by post-processing software.

For image quality purists, the GF8 is the more capable sensor overall, but if you prefer a camera that encourages in-camera JPEGs for casual use, the E-PM1’s more straightforward output may suit you better.

Viewing and Live View Experience: Screen and Viewfinder

For framing and reviewing images, factor in screen quality and viewfinder options.

The E-PM1 employs a fixed 3-inch screen with a modest 460k-dot resolution and an anti-reflective HyperCrystal coating - providing decent visibility outdoors but limited detail. There’s no built-in viewfinder; Olympus offered an optional electronic VF you can attach, but at extra cost and bulk.

The GF8 shines here with a 3-inch 1040k-dot touchscreen that tilts upward 180 degrees - a boon for selfies and low-angle shooting. The touchscreen interface allows intuitive focusing and menu navigation, speeding up shooting and review cycles.

However, the GF8, like the E-PM1, lacks any built-in viewfinder, which may steer some photographers towards external EVFs for sunny or action-packed environments.

If you shoot a lot outdoors or enjoy composing through a viewfinder, this setup can feel limiting. I found that the GF8’s brighter, sharper screen made a noticeable difference in live view focusing in bright daylight, especially when combined with touchtap autofocus.

Autofocus Capabilities: Precision When It Counts

Speed and accuracy of autofocus (AF) systems are paramount, especially for moving subjects and critical focus points such as eyes and animals.

Both cameras utilize contrast-detection autofocus, characteristic of older and more budget-friendly mirrorless models, with no dedicated phase-detection pixels. However, there are meaningful differences.

The Olympus E-PM1 employs 35 focus points and features face detection, continuous AF tracking, and selective AF areas. The system is responsive for still subjects but can struggle under low light due to slower contrast detection. Eye detection and animal eye AF are not available.

The Panasonic GF8 simplifies its system to 23 AF points but adds touch-to-focus on the touchscreen, speeding target acquisition dramatically. It includes face detection and continuous autofocus tracking, optimized through the Venus engine’s improved algorithms.

In practical use, the GF8’s AF performance is smoother in video and live view bursts, albeit neither camera competes with current hybrid phase-detection systems in higher-end cameras.

For wildlife and sports enthusiasts, neither offers blazing speed or precision, but the E-PM1’s higher continuous shooting rate at 6fps edges out the GF8’s 5.8fps by a hair in buffer depth and sustained shooting.

Lens Ecosystem and Compatibility: More Than Just Body Specs

Being part of the Micro Four Thirds system means both share access to the same extensive lens lineup - over 100 lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, and third parties, covering everything from pro telephotos to macro primes.

The smaller sensor size delivers a 2x crop factor compared to full-frame, so a 25mm prime behaves like a 50mm normal lens equiv.

One consideration: the E-PM1’s release predated widespread use of in-body stabilization (IBIS) in Olympus cameras but includes sensor-based image stabilization. The GF8, however, lacks sensor stabilization, relying on optical image stabilization (OIS) in lenses instead.

If you plan to invest gradually in lenses with stabilization, the E-PM1 body offers a slight advantage, providing steadier handheld shots even with non-stabilized glass - a benefit in macro or low-light handheld shooting.

Burst Mode and Shutter Speeds: Freezing or Conveying Motion

Both cameras relatively limit shutter speeds between 60 seconds minimum and 1/4000 sec maximum, which is typical for this segment and sufficient for most casual shooting scenarios. The Panasonic GF8 extends this with an electronic shutter option up to 1/16000 sec, providing silent shooting and enabling shooting in bright light with wide apertures without neutral density filters.

Continuous shooting rates: Olympus at 6fps marginally outpaces Panasonic’s 5.8fps, but actual burst length is limited by buffer capacity. Neither is designed for serious high-speed sports photography but can handle casual action similarly.

Flash and Low-Light Performance: Built-In or Bust?

One seemingly minor but practical difference lies in flash capability.

The Olympus E-PM1 lacks a built-in flash, requiring external units for fill or night photography. While external flashes offer more power and bounce options, the omission reduces spontaneity and portability.

Conversely, the Panasonic GF8 includes a modest pop-up flash rated for 5.6 meters at ISO 200 - handy for fill light or quick snaps in dim conditions.

ISO-wise, the GF8’s higher ceiling alongside superior noise reduction makes it the better low-light performer, though neither excels at extreme low-light photography.

Video Features: Thinking Beyond Stills

Both shine with Full HD 1080p video at 60fps, respectable specs for entry-level cameras. However, Panasonic demonstrates a stronger video pedigree.

The Olympus uses AVCHD and Motion JPEG formats, while Panasonic adds MPEG-4 and H.264 codecs, offering higher compression efficiency and quality.

The GF8’s inclusion of touch autofocus during video, plus a dedicated movie button, enables smoother video operation.

Neither offers 4K recording or microphone/headphone inputs, limiting professional video use.

Connectivity and Storage Options: Plugging In and Saving Shots

Modern connectivity is essential for quick sharing and remote control.

The E-PM1 offers no wireless features - no Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC. That means you’ll be tethered to cables for image transfer or invest in third-party accessories for remote shooting.

The GF8 counters this with built-in Wi-Fi and NFC, allowing seamless pairing to smartphones or tablets for instant image transfer and remote control via Panasonic’s app. It’s a huge bonus for social shooters and vloggers.

Both rely on single SD card slots supporting SDHC/SDXC cards. Battery life favors the Olympus, rated for approximately 330 shots per charge, compared to the Panasonic GF8’s 230 - a significant difference if you shoot all-day events or travel.

Weather Sealing and Durability: Can You Take It Outside?

Neither camera boasts any form of weather-sealing, dustproofing, or shockproofing. They’re best kept in professional bags or weather-protected situations. This isn’t surprising given their entry-level status but worth considering if you’re the rough-and-ready outdoor type.

Suitability Across Photography Genres: Who Wins Where?

Let’s place these cameras in real-world shooting scenarios and highlight which suits each discipline best.

Olympus E PM1 screen back Panasonic GF8 front Panasonic GF8 screen back

Portrait Photography

• Olympus E-PM1: Images render skin tones softly, thanks to the TruePic VI's slight smoothing. Face detection is reliable, but no eye detection AF means you’ll need to nail focus manually or with regular AF points. The 12MP sensor limits cropping, but the in-body stabilization aids handheld portraits at slower shutter speeds.
• Panasonic GF8: The 16MP sensor produces crisper details and more versatile cropping. Touchscreen focus makes selecting the eye area simpler. However, lack of IBIS means steadier handling required or well-supported lenses. Overall, GF8 edges slightly with detail and AF ease.

Landscape Photography

• Olympus E-PM1: Dynamic range of about 10.3 EV is respectable, but ISO noise and lower resolution restrict extreme crops and low-light shadows.
• Panasonic GF8: Greater resolution and marginally better dynamic range deliver richer detail and highlight roll-off. Tilt screen facilitates composing from odd angles. For landscape shooters on a budget, GF8 is the pick.

Wildlife Photography

• Olympus E-PM1: 6fps burst rate and 35 AF points aid in action sequences, but slow contrast AF limits subject tracking.
• Panasonic GF8: Slightly slower burst and fewer AF points, but better tracking algorithms and touchscreen AF somewhat compensate.

Neither is ideal for dedicated wildlife pros but okay for casual shooters.

Sports Photography

Neither camera excels in sports due to AF system limitations and buffer depths. Olympus’s marginally higher fps might appeal for casual use; still, both will struggle with fast-moving or unpredictable subjects.

Street Photography

• Olympus E-PM1: Small, discreet body with quieter shutter modes (though no silent shutter) ideal for candid shots.
• Panasonic GF8: Tilt screen and touchscreen AF can distract or slow down fast street shooting but excels in self-portraits and vlogging.

Macro Photography

The Olympus’s in-body stabilization gives it a hands-on advantage when paired with macro lenses, enabling sharper handheld shots.

Panasonic’s lack of IBIS means macro shooters must rely on stabilized lenses or tripods.

Night and Astro Photography

Neither camera offers specialized astro modes. The GF8’s higher ISO ceiling and better noise reduction provide more usable images at night.

Video

Panasonic GF8 clearly leans into video with smoother continuous autofocus, a dedicated video button, and richer codec options.

Olympus E-PM1’s slower AF and limited video codec flexibility hold it back.

Travel Photography

Both cameras score for portability and weight, but:

• Olympus offers longer battery life and sensor stabilization.
• Panasonic boasts better connectivity and a versatile tilt screen.

For everyday travel, GF8’s ease of sharing images and selfie screen is appealing.

Professional Work

Both are entry-level models unsuited for demanding professional workflows requiring high resolution, dynamic range, and robust build. However, Olympus supports raw files and exposure bracketing, handy for HDR workflows.

Performance Scores and Verdict

Let’s take a look at the overall and genre-specific performance ratings from third-party testing and my hands-on experience.

The Olympus E-PM1 scores well for image stabilization, continuous shooting speed, and battery life - excellent for hobbyists and macro/portrait shooters.

The Panasonic GF8 wins overall image quality, touchscreen usability, video features, and connectivity - great for casual shooters, travelers, and vloggers.

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

When it boils down to it, which camera makes the most sense?

• If you prioritize compactness with a tactile control interface, sensor-based stabilization, longer battery life, and reasonably solid photo quality at a competitive price (~$450 used nowadays), the Olympus E-PM1 remains a compelling choice. It suits portrait, macro, and general photography needs for enthusiasts who prefer in-camera image stabilization and physical dials.

• If you seek higher resolution images, superior video features, a quality tilting touchscreen, and wireless connectivity (Wi-Fi/NFC), and can live without IBIS or extended battery life, then the Panasonic GF8 is your pick. It’s particularly appealing if you want to engage with social media regularly or vlog.

Neither will satisfy hardcore professionals or advanced photographers who need blazing fast autofocus or high ISO prowess, but for entry-level mirrorless buyers or upgrades from compact cameras, they each have something to offer.

Dear Olympus and Panasonic, please note - adding eye/animal detection and extending battery life would make these systems unstoppable.

If you want to dig further, I have detailed autofocus testing videos and landscape shooting comparisons. Happy to share those in the comments!

Looking to stretch your Micro Four Thirds budget? Consider the newer Olympus E-PM2 or Panasonic GX85, which build upon these foundations with improved sensors and features.

Either way, whichever camera you pick from this pair, you’ll join a lens ecosystem rich with affordable, high-quality glass - a true blessing for those keen on creative flexibility.

Happy shooting, and may your next image be the one that truly inspires you.