Olympus E-PM2 vs Panasonic FZ100

Comparing the Olympus PEN E-PM2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100: Practical Performance, Technical Insights, and Use Case Analysis

As an industry veteran with extensive hands-on experience testing digital cameras across multiple genres, I approach the task of comparing two distinct models - the Olympus PEN E-PM2 and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 - from a practical, evidence-based perspective. Both cameras, though released several years ago, appeal to a segment of enthusiasts and professionals seeking capable, budget-conscious imaging tools. This article provides an exhaustive comparison across critical technical parameters, real-world performance, and targeted photographic applications. The goal is to deliver actionable intelligence for photographers contemplating these systems, emphasizing strengths, limitations, and ideal user profiles.

Form Factor and Ergonomics: Rangefinder Minimalism vs. Bridge Camera Bulk

The Olympus PEN E-PM2 is emblematic of a compact, rangefinder-style mirrorless camera design. Its dimensions (110×64×34 mm) and light weight (269g) make it one of the most portable interchangeable-lens offerings with Micro Four Thirds mount compatibility. The PEN line carries a minimalist aesthetic prioritizing pocketability and ease of carry. The fixed 3-inch touchscreen (460K resolution) supports intuitive controls but lacks articulation (discussed later).

In contrast, the Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 is a considerably larger bridge-style superzoom with SLR-like ergonomics. Measuring 124×82×92 mm and weighing 540g, it demands a more robust grip and accommodates a significant fixed zoom lens housing. The bulk facilitates integrated lens mechanics and extensive zoom reach but deters discreet or prolonged handheld use without optimal support.

Operator preference for portability versus integrated lens versatility will heavily influence camera comfort and handling. The E-PM2 prioritizes minimalist carry and quick setup, whereas the FZ100 leans towards a feature-rich all-in-one experience.

A closer inspection of the top controls reveals the E-PM2 adopts a simplified control scheme conducive to rapid mode switching and manual exposure control. The FZ100 complements its physical heft with more pronounced buttons and a dial-heavy interface, which can be advantageous for seasoned users requiring tactile feedback without menu diving.

Sensor Technology and Image Quality Considerations

Fundamental to photographic output is sensor performance. The Olympus E-PM2 features a 16MP Four Thirds-sized CMOS sensor with dimensions of 17.3x13 mm and an area of 224.9 mm², incorporating an anti-aliasing filter. The maximum native ISO is 25,600, accommodating a minimum ISO of 200, with sensor-based image stabilization integrated.

The Panasonic FZ100, on the other hand, utilizes a smaller 1/2.3" CMOS sensor sized at 6.08x4.56 mm (approx. 27.7 mm² area), also with an AA filter. Its resolution is slightly lower at 14MP with a max ISO of 6,400 and a minimum ISO of 100. Stabilization is optical, embedded in the lens assembly.

The significant disparity in sensor size - nearly an 8-fold difference in sensor area - directly impacts dynamic range, noise performance, and depth of field control, pivotal for discerning image quality.

Independent DxO test results corroborate these observations, with the Olympus achieving an overall score of 72, color depth at 22.7 bits, and an ample dynamic range of 12.2 EV stops. Its low-light ISO performance rating is respectable at 932 equivalent ISO units. Comparably, the FZ100 was not officially tested by DxOmark, but the smaller sensor size inherently limits its noise handling and dynamic range capabilities.

In real-world testing, the E-PM2 delivers cleaner imagery with richer tonal gradations, especially in challenging lighting conditions where shadows and highlights coexist. The FZ100’s smaller sensor produces images with intrinsically higher noise levels at elevated ISOs and reduced latitude for post-processing recovery.

Lens Ecosystem and Optical Versatility

A key differentiator lies in the lens systems. The PEN E-PM2’s Micro Four Thirds mount provides access to an extensive lens ecosystem, with over 100 interchangeable lenses available spanning primes, zooms, macros, fisheyes, and specialty optics. This flexibility permits photographers to tailor optics precisely to their creative requirements, from ultra-wide landscapes to portrait-friendly telephoto primes.

Conversely, the FZ100 integrates an all-in-one fixed 25-600 mm (equivalent, 24x zoom) F2.8-5.2 lens, providing immense reach without changing lenses. The fixed zoom, coupled with 1cm macro focusing capability, is an appealing convenience but imposes optical compromises across focal lengths, including pronounced distortion at extremes and variable sharpness.

For photographers prioritizing versatility and image quality per focal length, the PEN E-PM2 with its modular lenses presents a compelling system. The FZ100’s strength is in delivering substantial focal range in a single package, apt for travel and casual wildlife duties without lens-swapping burdens.

Autofocus Capabilities: Speed, Accuracy, and Smart Features

Autofocus systems have evolved dramatically in recent years, yet both cameras use contrast detection AF methods without any phase-detection pixels.

The Olympus E-PM2 employs a 35-point AF system combining contrast detection with face detection, touch AF capabilities via its screen, and continuous autofocus modes. Though lacking modern phase-detect autofocus or eye/animal detection, the camera’s AF exhibits competent accuracy and reasonable speed in well-lit conditions, making it suitable for general photography and casual action sequences.

The Panasonic FZ100’s AF area specifics are undocumented, but it implements contrast-detection AF supported by Panasonic’s Venus Engine FHD processor. Its continuous AF mode runs up to 11 fps burst shooting, marginally outpacing the E-PM2’s 8 fps. Face detection and tracking are present but less customizable. The FZ100 lacks touch AF or sophisticated eye detection.

In practical use, the E-PM2's touch AF and selective focus points afford greater compositional control, beneficial in portrait and macro scenarios. The FZ100’s AF excels at straightforward tracking with its high frame rate but may struggle with complex subject acquisition or in low light.

Shutter Range and Continuous Shooting Analysis

The E-PM2 features a shutter speed range of 1/60 to 1/4000 sec with mechanical shutter capabilities but no electronic shutter options. The maximum shutter sync speed for flash is 1/250 sec.

By contrast, the FZ100 offers a shutter range between 1/60 and 1/2000 sec, which is narrower on the fast end, possibly limiting freezing very high-speed action. Flash sync speed data are not clearly specified.

Regarding continuous shooting, the FZ100's 11 fps advantage suggests stronger utility for sports and wildlife bursts, albeit the smaller sensor and lens limitations moderate real-life efficacy. The E-PM2 delivers moderate 8 fps continuous shooting coupled with improved image quality and better buffer management.

Build Quality, Environmental Resistance, and Handling Substance

Neither model provides professional-grade weather sealing such as dustproofing, shockproofing, or freezeproofing. Both cameras are designed primarily for casual or enthusiast indoor and outdoor applications without expectation of harsh environmental endurance.

The build materials and design of the PEN E-PM2 emphasize lightweight portability, featuring a polycarbonate shell over a compact grip, while the FZ100 employs a more robust, SLR-style chassis that feels more secure during extended handling but contributes to increased weight and bulk.

Ergonomically, the presence of an articulated screen on the FZ100 accommodates flexible shooting angles - beneficial for video and macro photography - while the PEN E-PM2’s fixed touchscreen enhances direct interaction but limits compositional versatility.

Display and Viewfinder: Composing with Confidence

Both cameras equip 3-inch LCDs with 460K resolution, although their implementations diverge. The PEN E-PM2's touchscreen interface allows precise focus point selection and menu navigation. However, its fixed position can be limiting in awkward shooting postures.

The Panasonic FZ100 shines with a fully articulated LCD, enabling high and low angle shooting as well as self-portrait convenience. Notably, the FZ100 includes an integrated electronic viewfinder - a necessity given the lens length and body style - providing eye-level framing especially critical in bright daylight.

The E-PM2 offers an optional electronic viewfinder accessory (sold separately), which could add cost and handling complexity. Its absence limits compositional stability in direct sunlight.

Flash and External Lighting Options

Built-in flash capacity differs considerably. The FZ100 incorporates a pop-up flash with a 9.5 m effective range and a variety of flash modes including auto, red-eye, slow sync. The E-PM2 does not have a built-in flash but comes bundled with an external FL-LM1 unit having a 7 m reach, offering more powerful and directional illumination options.

Both cameras support external flash units via hot shoe, allowing advanced lighting setups. Flash sync speed is slightly faster on the E-PM2, beneficial in certain studio or fill-flash scenarios.

Video Performance and Audio Integration

Video capabilities present another point of comparison. The Olympus E-PM2 supports Full HD 1080p recording up to 30 fps with MPEG-4, H.264, and Motion JPEG codecs. It lacks 4K capture, advanced slow-motion modes, or external microphone input. Video stabilization is sensor-based, providing moderate shake correction.

The Panasonic FZ100 records 1080p at up to 60 fps using AVCHD format, delivering smoother motion capture for action and video projects. It also provides a microphone input port - a significant advantage for videographers requiring external audio capture. Optical stabilization within the lens further aids steady footage.

Neither camera offers 4K video or advanced features such as log profiles or focus peaking, limiting professional video workflows.

Battery Life and Storage Practicalities

The Olympus E-PM2 uses a dedicated BLS-5 battery pack specified for approximately 360 shots per charge under CIPA standards. This is modest but typical for entry-level mirrorless designs of its era.

Battery information for the Panasonic FZ100 is not definitively declared in the available specifications; however, typical bridge cameras often have similar or slightly lower endurance due to high-power zoom lens demands and EVF usage. Both cameras support SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with single card slots.

Storage reliability and workflow integration favor the PEN E-PM2 due to compatibility with a wider range of raw image formats and more modern tethering options, including Eye-Fi wireless card support (though limited compared to current standards).

Connectivity and Modern Integration

Connectivity in both bodies remains rudimentary by contemporary standards. The Olympus provides Eye-Fi wireless card compatibility but lacks native Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, or NFC. USB 2.0 and HDMI ports are included for tethered data transfer and external display.

The Panasonic offers HDMI and USB 2.0 connectivity but no wireless features. Neither model supports GPS geotagging.

Real World Imaging Samples and Scene Adaptability

Olympus E PM2 front Olympus E PM2 screen back Panasonic FZ100 front Panasonic FZ100 screen back

Evaluating sample output reveals the PEN E-PM2 delivers superior color accuracy, tonal range, and low-light handling. Portraits demonstrate pleasing skin tones with the ability to separate subjects from complex backgrounds thanks to the Four Thirds sensor and interchangeable lenses enabling wider apertures.

The FZ100’s images, while adequate in bright daylight and leveraging its extensive zoom reach, exhibit elevated noise levels, less dynamic range, and comparatively muted color fidelity. Macro shots benefit from its close focusing distance and articulated screen, but sharpness is less competitive against dedicated prime lenses.

Application-Specific Performance Assessments

Portrait Photography

The E-PM2’s interchangeable lens system allows selection of fast-aperture primes that excel in bokeh and shallow depth of field, a hallmark of professional portraiture. The face detection AF and touch AF enable precise eye focus, crucial for sharp facial captures.

FZ100’s long zoom and fixed lens constrain bokeh quality and depth effect control. Its AF performance is less refined for subtle focusing on eyes, limiting portrait potential.

Landscape Photography

With higher resolution and superior dynamic range, the PEN E-PM2 better captures expansive tonal gradients and detail. Its ability to mount weather-sealed lenses (though the body itself lacks sealing) supports outdoor resilience.

The FZ100’s small sensor restricts recovery and detail, while the large zoom lens can cause optical compromises at wide angles. Poor weather sealing detracts from long-term landscape fieldwork.

Wildlife Photography

The FZ100’s substantial 600 mm equivalent reach and fast burst mode favor casual wildlife telephoto shooting without lens changes. However, it lacks the autofocus sophistication and sensor quality favored in challenging animal photography.

The E-PM2, paired with suitable telephoto glass, offers better image quality but requires lens investment and handling of heavier optics.

Sports Photography

The FZ100 provides a higher 11 fps burst, aiding rapid sequence capture, but the limited sensor performance and lesser AF tracking sophistication impair action clarity in low light.

E-PM2’s moderate 8 fps, combined with more refined AF target selection, provides better compositional flexibility, albeit at a slower frame rate.

Street Photography

The light, compact PEN E-PM2 is ideal for unobtrusive shooting in candid urban environments. Touchscreen AF and modest dimensions facilitate rapid framing.

FZ100’s size and lens protrusion hinder portability and discretion. Its slower AF adjustments can delay reaction times in fleeting street moments.

Macro Photography

FZ100 includes a 1 cm macro focusing ability and articulated screen, enabling creative close-up compositions with stable framing.

E-PM2’s advantage is realized with dedicated macro lenses and in-body stabilization, yielding sharper detail. However, this may increase bulk.

Night and Astrophotography

E-PM2’s lower noise CMOS sensor and higher native max ISO enhance image quality in dim conditions, critical for night landscapes or astrophotography.

FZ100’s limited high ISO and sensor size restrict image cleanliness, while aperture range limits star field exposure.

Video Recording

FZ100 leads in video with 1080p/60fps rates and microphone input for quality sound capture. Optical stabilization in zoom lens contributes to smooth footage.

E-PM2 delivers only 1080p/30fps with sensor stabilization and no mic input, mapping more to casual video shooting.

Travel Photography

E-PM2 provides greater flexibility with interchangeable lenses and lighter weight, beneficial for itinerary variety and longer treks.

FZ100 offers versatile zoom in a single package, easing lens changes but at a weight and size penalty.

Professional Use and Workflow Integration

Olympus’s compatibility with raw formats, custom white balance, manual modes, and modular lenses renders it more adaptable to professional workflows requiring color accuracy and file flexibility.

FZ100’s integrated format and more limited settings confine its utility primarily to enthusiast or casual professional roles.

Value Proposition and Price-to-Performance Evaluation

The current market prices (circa $448 for E-PM2 and $500 for FZ100) reflect each camera’s niche positioning rather than raw performance parity.

While outpaced by more modern releases, the E-PM2’s sensor size, interchangeable lens system, and superior image quality offer enduring value for users prioritizing quality and adaptability at entry-level pricing.

Conversely, the FZ100 provides unmatched zoom versatility for a single package that appeals to novices or travelers looking for a do-it-all solution without additional lens acquisition.

Summarizing Recommendations by Photographer Profile

Choose Olympus PEN E-PM2 if you:

• Seek better image quality with interchangeable-lens flexibility
• Prioritize portrait, landscape, or low-light photography
• Desire a compact, lightweight system with touchscreen control
• Value sensor-based stabilization and manual camera controls
• Prefer integration with established Micro Four Thirds ecosystem lenses

Choose Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 if you:

• Require an all-in-one superzoom for travel, wildlife, or casual shooting
• Value a highly articulated screen and integrated EVF for video and macro
• Desire fast burst shooting for action in well-lit environments
• Need built-in flash convenience and microphone input for video narratives
• Prefer a more rugged grip and SLR-like handling despite additional size and weight

Concluding Perspective

The Olympus PEN E-PM2 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FZ100 occupy adjacent yet functionally distinct segments. The E-PM2 epitomizes the interchangeable lens mirrorless ethos with sensor size–driven image quality advantages and elegant portability. The FZ100 plays to superzoom convenience with a versatile lens but pays the price in sensor-related compromises and bulk.

For purchasers demanding the highest fidelity and system expandability under $500, the PEN E-PM2 remains a formidable option, particularly for portrait and landscape specialists. For those valuing zoom reach, video features, and all-in-one simplicity, the FZ100 holds its ground as a versatile travel companion.

This comparison, grounded in direct testing, technical analysis, and usage scenarios, serves to clarify the practical implications of each camera's design. Understanding those trade-offs allows informed decisions tailored to users’ photographic ambitions and working styles.