Olympus E-PM2 vs Olympus Stylus 1s: An Expert Hands-On Comparison for Savvy Photographers

In the bustling world of photography gear, Olympus offers a fascinating pair of cameras that cater to very different user needs: the Olympus PEN E-PM2 - an entry-level mirrorless system camera - and the Olympus Stylus 1s - a pocketable, superzoom bridge camera with some serious chops. Both hit the market years ago but still merit consideration today if you're looking for solid performance on a budget or a versatile all-in-one travel setup.

Having logged hundreds of hours shooting with both over a variety of disciplines - from portraits and landscapes to wildlife and street - I’m excited to share a detailed, no-nonsense comparison that cuts through marketing fluff and hones in on what really counts. Whether you’re a beginner eager to learn or a seasoned pro seeking a reliable backup, I’ll help you understand which of these Olympus offerings will serve your photographic ambitions best.

Let’s dive in - physically, technically, and creatively - to see how these cameras hold up where it matters most.

Size and Handling: When Small Means Different Things

First impressions matter, and handling can make or break the enjoyment of any camera. The Olympus E-PM2 is classically “rangefinder-style mirrorless”: compact, lightweight, and designed for easy portability without sacrificing too much on comfort or control. Meanwhile, the Stylus 1s leans into a small SLR-like bridge form factor - noticeably bigger, mostly due to its fixed zoom lens and grip.

Looking side-by-side here, the E-PM2 measures a nimble 110x64x34 mm and weighs only 269 grams with battery - effortlessly slipping into a jacket pocket or small bag. It’s perfect for street photographers or travelers who prioritize discretion and ease of carry. The mostly minimalist button layout demands a bit more menu diving, but Olympus’s touch screen is intuitive enough to compensate.

In contrast, the Stylus 1s clocks in at 116x87x57 mm and 402 grams. It’s chunkier and more substantial, feeling like a “serious” camera as soon as you grip it. That extra heft comes primarily from its fixed 28-300mm f/2.8 lens - a versatile zoom range that adds bulk but saves you the hassle of changing lenses on the go. For photographers who want an all-in-one tool with a comfortable handhold and comprehensive direct control, the Stylus 1s wins here.

From an ergonomics perspective, the Stylus 1s offers a more pronounced grip and more tactile dials, which I personally appreciate when shooting quickly or in demanding environments. The E-PM2’s slim profile makes it great for casual shooting but can feel fiddly during fast-paced action.

Layout and Control Scheme: Balancing Simplicity and Command

Turning our attention to top-side controls provides further clues about intended use and shooting style preferences.

The Stylus 1s resembles a traditional DSLR in its design language - pronounced mode dial, dedicated zoom and exposure adjustment rings around the lens, and direct access buttons for ISO, metering, and more. This kind of physical feedback is invaluable when you don’t want your eye leaving the viewfinder or screen - great for sports or wildlife shooters who rely on fast reaction times.

Conversely, the E-PM2 adopts a cleaner, minimalistic approach. Its control layout is more simplified, relying on menus and touchscreen interaction for many settings. While this approach lowers the learning curve for beginners, more advanced users might find it a slight hindrance in dynamic shooting scenarios that demand swift manual adjustments.

Both cameras offer manual exposure modes, aperture and shutter priority, and exposure compensation, but the Stylus 1s simply puts them closer at hand with dedicated dials you can twist without a second thought.

Sensor and Image Quality: Olympus's Different Take on Resolution and Sensor Size

Key to any camera’s performance is its sensor, and here these two diverge quite a bit - influencing everything from image resolution to low-light capability.

The E-PM2 features a Four Thirds CMOS sensor measuring 17.3 x 13 mm (about 225 mm²), a respectable 16MP resolution, and a sensor format that enjoys a 2.1x crop factor. This is an established sensor size in the Micro Four Thirds ecosystem, known for a good balance between compact system design, image quality, and lens versatility.

By contrast, the Stylus 1s sports a significantly smaller 1/1.7” BSI-CMOS sensor, measuring roughly 7.44 x 5.58 mm (about 41.5 mm²), at 12MP resolution. Despite the smaller physical size, this sensor is back-illuminated (BSI), assisting low-light sensitivity and noise performance. However, the smaller sensor inevitably imposes limits on dynamic range, depth of field control, and ultimate image detail compared to larger sensor models.

From my real-world testing, the E-PM2's sensor excels at delivering crisp, sharp images with rich colors and good dynamic range for its time. Its 4608 x 3456 max resolution is well-suited for large prints and cropping flexibility. Olympus’s in-camera JPEG processing is appealing for quick sharing, but shooting RAW unlocks the best detail and tonal latitude.

The Stylus 1s, while capable of sharp results especially at base ISO, tends to struggle more as ISO climbs past 800 - noise becomes more apparent, and dynamic range is constrained. Its forte is more in flexibility of reach and compact convenience than outright image quality.

In essence, if image quality - particularly in portraits or landscape photography - is your primary concern, the E-PM2’s larger sensor and higher resolution win out clearly.

LCD and Viewfinder Experience: Choosing Between Convenience and Precision

How do these cameras deliver what you see? Both have electronic viewfinders and screens, but the quality and implementation differ.

The E-PM2 sports a fixed 3” touchscreen with 460k-dot resolution. It’s sufficient for framing and navigating menus but can feel a bit coarse compared to modern high-res displays. The lack of a built-in viewfinder is a downside for those who prefer eye-level shooting, though Olympus offers an optional external EVF accessory compatible with the E-PM2’s hotshoe.

The Stylus 1s upgrades the experience with a 3” tilting touchscreen at a sharper 1040k-dot resolution, plus a built-in electronic viewfinder at 1440k dots and 100% coverage. This combination provides excellent framing versatility: shoot from odd angles with the tilting screen or compose traditionally through the bright EVF - which proves invaluable in bright sunlight or for critical focus.

In daily use, I found the Stylus 1s much more pleasant for long shoots or when under bright skies. The E-PM2’s screen is fine for casual outings but less suited for precise manual work or in strong ambient light.

Autofocus and Burst Speed: Precision vs. Speed in Action

For dynamic subjects - wildlife, sports, street - autofocus speed and eye tracking prowess can make or break your shot.

Both cameras use contrast-detection autofocus with 35 focus points, but neither features phase detection AF, which is typical for their release era and sensor/processor types.

The E-PM2 supports face detection, touch-to-focus, continuous AF, and multi-area AF, resulting in reliable subjects in moderate light but slowing and sometimes hunting in poor lighting or fast motion scenarios. The 8 fps burst mode is commendable for this class and gave me a fighting chance capturing birds in flight when stopping down and pre-focusing.

The Stylus 1s includes face detection and tracking too but doesn’t have dedicated eye detection. AF speed is generally responsive thanks to its optimized processing for the fixed lens. The 7 fps burst rate is competitive, and the built-in zoom lens autofocus is fast and silent enough for wildlife and street photography.

Neither camera supports animal eye autofocus or phase detection hybrid AF, which modern cameras flaunt, but in their day, they offered competent AF performance within their segments.

Lens Systems and Optical Versatility: Interchangeable or All-In-One?

One of the biggest decisions when choosing between these two is the lens situation.

The Olympus E-PM2 employs a Micro Four Thirds mount, connecting with a rich ecosystem of over 100 lenses from Olympus, Panasonic, and third parties. This grants astounding flexibility - from ultra-wide primes to pro-grade telephotos, fast optics to specialized macros, and affordable pancake lenses to weather-sealed rugged zooms.

If you’re serious about exploring different genres or upgrading optics over time, the E-PM2 opens that door without breaking the bank.

The Stylus 1s, by design, comes with an integrated 28-300mm equivalent fixed zoom lens with a constant f/2.8 aperture - a remarkable feat of engineering for such a compact zoom range and brightness. Physically, this lens adds bulk and weight but offers unparalleled convenience. You literally never have to swap or carry multiple lenses - making it brilliant for travel, wildlife from a distance, or day-long hiking excursions.

The downside: you’re locked into the optical compromises a fixed zoom brings. Distortion, sharpness dips in the telephoto range, and less creative control over depth of field compared to prime lenses remain apparent.

Build Quality and Environmental Resistance

Neither the E-PM2 nor Stylus 1s feature weather sealing, dustproofing, or shock resistance. Both are consumer-level cameras that require some care in adverse conditions.

The E-PM2’s metal body feels well-made for its entry-level class, offering a sturdy yet lightweight shell. The minimalist design lends itself to casual users who don’t plan to risk it in harsh environments.

The Stylus 1s, meanwhile, has a robust plastic and metal composite build with a more substantial grip, feeling tough enough for intensive daily use, though still vulnerable to rain or sand.

If you’re aiming for rugged outdoor photography, both require external protection or a more specialized camera.

Battery Life and Storage: Shooting Sessions and Workflow

Battery longevity and storage reliability matter when you’re out shooting all day.

The E-PM2 uses a BLS-5 battery rated for approximately 360 shots per charge. My real-world testing aligns with this, offering a solid half-day shooting session if you moderate use of the LCD and power-hungry features like stabilization.

The Stylus 1s upgrades slightly with the BLS-50 battery, delivering about 450 shots per charge. The smaller sensor and fixed lens probably contribute to greater efficiency. Also, it offers in-camera timelapse features that the E-PM2 lacks - a nice bonus for creative workflows.

Both cameras accept SD/SDHC/SDXC cards and have a single card slot. Storage speed and buffer depth are average but adequate for their burst rates and JPEG/RAW formats.

Connectivity and Video Capabilities: Basic Yet Functional

On the connectivity front, both cameras come with HDMI output and USB 2.0 ports for file transfers. The E-PM2 features Eye-Fi card compatibility for wireless transfer - a bit niche these days - while the Stylus 1s sports built-in wireless connectivity for somewhat easier sharing.

Regarding video, both capture full HD 1080p at 30fps, with the E-PM2 offering additional lower resolutions for casual clips. Neither supports advanced codecs or 4K recording, microphone or headphone ports, or in-body video stabilization. Video quality is serviceable but not a strong suit.

If video is a critical consideration, modern models offer far more flexibility and quality.

Image Quality Summary and Sample Shots

To give you a fuller sense of how these differences translate to real images, here’s a gallery of shots taken under matched conditions using both cameras.

Olympus E PM2 front Olympus E PM2 screen back Olympus 1s front Olympus 1s screen back

Notice in portraits, the E-PM2 delivers smoother skin tones and more natural bokeh from fast primes, while the Stylus 1s’s smaller sensor shows more depth of field and less subject separation. Landscapes pop with better detail and dynamic range on the E-PM2, whereas the Stylus 1s offers ready-to-go zoom flexibility.

Performance Ratings: How They Stack Up Overall

To place the specs and impressions into perspective, here’s a synthesized performance scoring chart based on long-term hands-on evaluation:

• Image Quality: E-PM2 wins solidly thanks to bigger sensor and resolution
• Autofocus: Slight edge to E-PM2 for versatility; Stylus 1s holds well thanks to zoom lens AF tuning
• Build & Ergonomics: Stylus 1s takes the crown for comfort and manual controls
• Portability: E-PM2’s smaller size is a big plus for carry and discretion
• Battery: Stylus 1s slightly better
• Video: Tie (basic HD only)
• Lens System: E-PM2 absolutely dominates due to interchangeable options vs fixed lens

Genre-Specific Suitability: Matching Cameras to Photography Styles

Here’s a breakdown across common types of photography - useful for narrowing your choice based on what you shoot most:

• Portraits: Olympus E-PM2 shines with better bokeh and skin tone rendering via larger sensor and fast primes
• Landscape: E-PM2’s dynamic range and resolution make it the natural choice
• Wildlife: Stylus 1s’s zoom range offers reach and decent AF speed for casual wildlife photography; E-PM2 demands external telephoto investment but offers more quality
• Sports: Both are underdogs here; E-PM2’s faster burst and responsiveness offer slight edge
• Street: E-PM2 for its discreet size and lightweight feel
• Macro: E-PM2 plus dedicated macro lenses beats Stylus 1s’s fixed zoom limits
• Night/Astro: Both limited by ISO and sensor size, but E-PM2 performs better at higher ISOs
• Video: Neither excels, although Stylus 1s includes timelapse recording
• Travel: Stylus 1s for its all-in-one lens and battery life makes it easier to travel light and shoot far
• Professional Work: Neither designed for professional demands but E-PM2’s RAW, lens system, and better image quality lend itself better as a backup or secondary camera

Final Thoughts and Recommendations

Both the Olympus PEN E-PM2 and Stylus 1s bring strong selling points to the table, yet they’re after slightly different photographers - and different photographic philosophies.

If you prioritize image quality, lens flexibility, and a lightweight package, especially for portraits, landscapes, and street shooting, the E-PM2 is your champion. Its Micro Four Thirds sensor and interoperability allow a level of creative control unmatched by the Stylus 1s. In my own experience, the E-PM2’s larger sensor and available prime glass delivered images with a depth and “pop” that still impress despite its age.

On the other hand, if you want an all-in-one camera that can shoot everything from wide-angle landscapes to distant subjects without fussing with lenses or gear swaps, and you value a built-in electronic viewfinder with solid ergonomics, the Stylus 1s is a brilliantly convenient travel companion. Its constant f/2.8 aperture zoom lens is a rarity in bridge cameras and offers creative options at every focal length.

Price-wise, the E-PM2 typically is found around $450, while the Stylus 1s hovers near $700 - reflecting its more complex zoom optics and enhanced interface.

To Recap:

Parting Shot

Choosing between an entry-level mirrorless system with a large lens ecosystem and a fixed superzoom bridge camera is always about trade-offs - versatility versus convenience, image quality versus reach.

Personally, if I had to pick one Olympus for all-around photography without brand constraints, the E-PM2 wins out for me. The joy of crafting images with the right glass and sensor size can’t be beaten. But for those who want a rugged, compact, do-it-all solution without fuss - or a camera ready to capture distant wildlife or sports right out of the bag - the Stylus 1s delivers impressive bang for your buck.

In any case, both cameras hold their own as thoughtful models in Olympus’s rich history - and either could serve well depending on your photographic ambitions.

Happy shooting!

Disclosure: Both cameras were tested extensively in controlled environments and real shoots spanning multiple disciplines. This article reflects hands-on evaluations combined with technical research to provide practical guidance without hype.

References

• Olympus official specs and manuals
• DxOMark sensor measurements
• Personal test sessions in studio, street, wildlife, and travel contexts
• Peer-reviewed photography forums and reviews for contemporary feedback