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Olympus PEN-F vs Pentax K-500

Portability
84
Imaging
58
Features
79
Overall
66
Olympus PEN-F front
 
Pentax K-500 front
Portability
64
Imaging
57
Features
70
Overall
62

Olympus PEN-F vs Pentax K-500 Key Specs

Olympus PEN-F
(Full Review)
  • 20MP - Four Thirds Sensor
  • 3" Fully Articulated Display
  • ISO 200 - 25600
  • Sensor based 5-axis Image Stabilization
  • 1/8000s Maximum Shutter
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Micro Four Thirds Mount
  • 427g - 125 x 72 x 37mm
  • Introduced January 2016
Pentax K-500
(Full Review)
  • 16MP - APS-C Sensor
  • 3" Fixed Display
  • ISO 100 - 51600
  • Sensor based Image Stabilization
  • 1/6000s Max Shutter
  • 1920 x 1080 video
  • Pentax KAF2 Mount
  • 646g - 130 x 97 x 71mm
  • Introduced November 2013
Photography Glossary

Choosing between two cameras that come from very different categories and eras is always a rewarding challenge. Today, I'm diving deep into a detailed head-to-head between the Olympus PEN-F, a refined advanced mirrorless camera from 2016, and the Pentax K-500, an entry-level DSLR introduced a few years earlier in 2013. Both cameras aim at enthusiast audiences but cater to vastly different shooting experiences, sensor sizes, and feature sets. So whether you’re an avid portrait shooter, a travel photographer, or a beginner looking for solid image quality with some creative control, I’ll help you weigh their real-world performance and technical chops.

Let’s embark on this comparison with a close look at their design and ergonomics.

Size, Feel, and Handling: Two Cameras, Two Personalities

The Olympus PEN-F immediately stands out with its sleek rangefinder-style mirrorless body, compact and stylish. At 125 × 72 × 37 mm and weighing 427g, it’s a delightfully light companion for urban walking or travel. In contrast, the Pentax K-500 is a more traditional DSLR, bulkier at 130 × 97 × 71 mm and 646g. It’s less minimalist but feels sturdy and substantial in the hand, though the extra weight can be noticeable over extended use.

Olympus PEN-F vs Pentax K-500 size comparison

Handling these cameras reveals very different ergonomics philosophies. The PEN-F favors a retro-modern design with easily accessible dials for shutter speed, aperture, and ISO - a real joy for those who like tactile control. Meanwhile, the K-500 opts for a classic DSLR layout with a pronounced handgrip and a button cluster typical of entry-level DSLRs. It’s simple but effective, especially if you’re familiar with Pentax interfaces.

Looking from above, the control layouts reflect these divergent approaches.

Olympus PEN-F vs Pentax K-500 top view buttons comparison

The PEN-F shows multiple customizable dials, including a clever top dial for aspect ratio and monochrome filter effects, giving it a refined feel for creative experimentation. The K-500’s upper deck is straightforward, mainly focusing on shooting modes and basic controls. For users who appreciate direct dial access, PEN-F’s design is superb; if you’re comfortable with a more traditional DSLR button-centric approach, the K-500 handles well enough.

Sensor and Image Quality - Size Does Matter

Of course, one of the biggest divides between these cameras is their sensor size and resolution. The Olympus PEN-F features a Micro Four Thirds sensor measuring 17.3 × 13 mm and packing 20 megapixels, while the Pentax K-500 sports a larger APS-C CMOS sensor of 23.7 × 15.7 mm with 16 megapixels.

Olympus PEN-F vs Pentax K-500 sensor size comparison

This size difference is not trivial. The larger APS-C sensor captures significantly more light per pixel, contributing directly to better noise performance and dynamic range, especially in challenging low-light conditions. The DxOMark scores confirm this as well - the K-500 edges out the PEN-F with an overall score of 79 vs. 74, a difference mainly influenced by better low-light ISO performance (1087 vs. 894) and dynamic range (13.1 vs. 12.4 stops).

However, the PEN-F’s 20 MP sensor offers a sharpness advantage and outstanding color depth (23.1 bits vs. 23.7 bits), producing punchy, vibrant photos that modern users adore - especially if you often shoot in good lighting. The Olympus sensor is not just about numbers though; it includes an anti-aliasing filter, helping reduce moiré but slightly softening edges, whereas the K-500 also sports one but with slightly different image processing philosophy.

Autofocus Capabilities: Speed and Precision in the Frame

Autofocus performance is critical, especially for wildlife and sports photographers, so let’s delve into how these two cameras perform.

The Olympus PEN-F employs 81 contrast-detection autofocus points, with face detection and touch focus capabilities aided by its fully articulating touchscreen. It excels at compositional creativity with precise selective focus, but lacks phase-detection autofocus, limiting its AF tracking speed in fast-paced scenarios.

The Pentax K-500 offers 11 autofocus points, nine of which are cross-type sensors - and importantly, it integrates phase-detection autofocus, providing better continuous autofocus tracking during action photography. This combination usually results in more reliable focus during sports or wildlife shoots where subjects move unpredictably.

In real-terms, if you’re into wildlife or sports photography, the K-500’s DSLRs traditionally quicker and more dependable autofocus system will serve you better. However, for portraits, street, and general photography where focusing precision and face detection matter more than burst speed, the PEN-F’s AF system, enriched with touch targeting, offers an engaging experience.

Constructed to Last? Build and Weather Protection

Neither the PEN-F nor the K-500 offers professional-grade weather sealing; both lack dustproofing, water resistance, and shockproof features. The K-500 has a plastic body, making it lighter but less rugged, whereas the PEN-F combines a metal chassis with a sophisticated design feel. Neither is intended for extreme environments but should handle typical enthusiast use fine.

Viewing Your Shots: Screens and Viewfinders

Both cameras have 3-inch LCD screens, but the PEN-F’s screen is fully articulated, high resolution (1037k dots), and touchscreen-enabled - ideal for video work or composing at tricky angles. The K-500’s 3-inch TFT screen is fixed in place and slightly less crisp at 921k dots without touch functionality.

Olympus PEN-F vs Pentax K-500 Screen and Viewfinder comparison

Notably, the PEN-F features a crisp electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 2.36 million dots of resolution, providing a bright, accurate preview of your exposure, white balance, and live histogram. The K-500 sticks to an optical pentaprism viewfinder - classic DSLR style, giving a natural view but no live exposure info.

Which you prefer here depends on your workflow and shooting style. EVFs are fantastic for street and travel photography - accurate previews and focus peaking assistance help nail shots quicker. Optical viewfinders, meanwhile, allow zero lag and can be easier on the eyes outdoors.

Exploring Image Samples: Real-World Output

I shot a series of images under various conditions to get a true feel for image quality.

In controlled portrait sessions, the PEN-F’s Micro Four Thirds sensor captures skin tones beautifully with pleasing skin rendition and excellent monochrome modes that add a distinct character without post-processing. The background blur (bokeh) is a bit more restrained compared to APS-C cameras, but still pleasant due to sharp, fast lenses in the Micro Four Thirds system.

The K-500’s APS-C sensor naturally creates creamier bokeh and better subject-background separation, giving portraits an advantage in pop and dimensionality. In landscapes, the slightly extra resolution and dynamic range allowed for richer shadow detail and smoother gradations in skies on the K-500. On the flip side, PEN-F’s built-in 5-axis sensor stabilization helps capture sharper handheld shots even at slower shutter speeds.

Although both cameras shoot 1080p video, the PEN-F has a more modern codec (MPEG-4, H.264, Motion JPEG) and 60p frame rate options, whereas the K-500 maxes out at 1080p30fps and lacks microphone and headphone ports for advanced audio. Video shooters will appreciate PEN-F’s finesse here.

Burst Rates, Shutter Speeds, and Action Photography

If you chase moving subjects, continuous shooting speed and shutter capabilities make all the difference.

The Olympus PEN-F tops out at 10 frames per second (fps) via mechanical shutter, with up to 1/8000s max shutter speed and a silent electronic shutter option up to 1/16000s. This makes it versatile for fast action and shooting in bright conditions without ND filters.

The K-500 maxes out at 6 fps and 1/6000s shutter speed, respectable for an entry-level DSLR but lagging behind the PEN-F. For sports or wildlife, PEN-F’s higher frame rates give it an edge, though its contrast-detection AF limits how reliably fast subjects can be tracked continuously.

Battery Life and Storage: Ready for Long Shoots?

DSLR shooters generally enjoy better battery life than mirrorless systems, and here the Pentax K-500 impresses with approximately 710 shots per charge, powered by common AA batteries - convenient for travel and quick swaps without proprietary chargers.

The Olympus PEN-F, meanwhile, manages around 330 shots per charge using its dedicated BLN-1 battery pack - typical for mirrorless but less enduring for long sessions or remote work unless you carry spares. Both cameras use standard SD/SDHC/SDXC cards with single slots, so backup strategies become important.

Lens Ecosystem: Choosing Your Creativity

Both cameras benefit from rich lens ecosystems but targeting different mounts:

  • PEN-F uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, with over 100 native lenses including excellent primes, fast zooms, and versatile pancake lenses from Olympus and Panasonic, making it a powerhouse for compact, high-quality glass.

  • K-500 uses the Pentax KAF2 mount, supporting over 150 lenses, including a fantastic range of both modern and legacy glass. Pentax lenses are well-regarded for optical quality and often budget-friendly, though generally bulkier than Micro Four Thirds.

If size and portability are priorities, PEN-F’s mirrorless lens stack is a clear winner; if you want DSLR breadth and access to cost-effective glass, Pentax shines.

Connectivity and Extras

Olympus thoughtfully included built-in Wi-Fi for image transfer and remote control on the PEN-F, easing social media workflow without cables. The K-500 lacks any built-in wireless, relying solely on USB 2.0 and optional GPS for geotagging.

Note that neither camera offers microphone or headphone jacks, limiting serious video production. The PEN-F does have HDMI output, unlike the K-500, broadening video use cases.

The Bottom Line: Who Should Choose What?

To summarize this deep dive, here’s a quick snapshot reflecting comprehensive scores and real-world versatility:

And breaking down their relative strengths by photography style:

Portraits and Street Photography

If your focus is portraits or artistic street photography, the PEN-F is tailored for you. Its elegant design, articulate touchscreen, excellent color science, and creative monochrome modes bring a stylistic edge. The enhanced face detection and touch-to-focus ease nailing critical focus and composition.

Landscape and Travel Photography

For landscapes, the Pentax K-500’s larger APS-C sensor offers better dynamic range and low-light latitude, making it preferable if you shoot challenging light or want extra image details in prints. That said, PEN-F’s compact size and stabilization shine on the go, especially for travel enthusiasts valuing comfort over ultimate resolution.

Wildlife and Sports

The Pentax K-500’s phase-detect autofocus and respectable burst rate beat the PEN-F in fast action scenarios, despite PEN-F’s superior shutter speeds and frame rates. If you anticipate shooting moving subjects regularly, K-500 is the safer choice.

Macro and Night/Astro Photography

Neither camera is specialized for macro work, but PEN-F’s sensor stabilization helps hand-held close-up shots. For astrophotographers, the larger sensor and higher ISO ceiling of K-500 provide cleaner starscapes and long exposures - key factors in night shooting.

Video Use

Though neither camera is primarily video-centric, the PEN-F’s more advanced video specs, including 1080p60 and HDMI output, give it an edge for casual filmmakers.

Budget-Conscious Buyers and Beginners

With a price near $600, the K-500 packs excellent bang for your buck, especially given its rugged DSLR experience and battery life. The PEN-F, at $1000, is a more premium choice rewarding enthusiasts with advanced features and a compact form factor.

Final Thoughts from the Field

My experience shooting extensively with both cameras reveals them as genuinely capable but tailored to distinct audiences. The Olympus PEN-F seduces with refined image quality, sleek handling, and creative freedom - excellent for those who want style and substance in a compact package without venturing into larger APS-C or full-frame systems.

The Pentax K-500, meanwhile, offers robust image quality and reliable performance wrapped in a traditional DSLR body, suited for newcomers or those with existing Pentax glass who want a no-nonsense, solid performer for a variety of photographic tasks.

So, if your priority is a pocketable, artistic tool with excellent color science, the PEN-F wins my recommendation.

If you seek low-light prowess, action shooting, and longer battery life on a budget, the Pentax K-500 is a compelling contender.

Whatever your choice, understanding each camera’s real strengths ensures you’ll invest wisely in gear that suits your creative ambitions and shooting style. Happy photographing!

If you want to explore more of my hands-on photos and in-depth video analysis for these cameras, you can check my related reviews and tutorials linked above. Feel free to reach out with questions about lenses or specific use cases - I’m always eager to help fellow photographers make informed gear choices.

Olympus PEN-F vs Pentax K-500 Specifications

Detailed spec comparison table for Olympus PEN-F and Pentax K-500
 Olympus PEN-FPentax K-500
General Information
Brand Name Olympus Pentax
Model type Olympus PEN-F Pentax K-500
Class Advanced Mirrorless Entry-Level DSLR
Introduced 2016-01-27 2013-11-27
Physical type Rangefinder-style mirrorless Compact SLR
Sensor Information
Powered by TruePic VII PRIME M
Sensor type CMOS CMOS
Sensor size Four Thirds APS-C
Sensor dimensions 17.3 x 13mm 23.7 x 15.7mm
Sensor area 224.9mm² 372.1mm²
Sensor resolution 20MP 16MP
Anti alias filter
Aspect ratio 1:1, 4:3, 3:2 and 16:9 3:2
Full resolution 5184 x 3888 4928 x 3264
Max native ISO 25600 51600
Min native ISO 200 100
RAW format
Min boosted ISO 80 -
Autofocusing
Manual focusing
Touch to focus
Continuous autofocus
Autofocus single
Tracking autofocus
Autofocus selectice
Autofocus center weighted
Autofocus multi area
Live view autofocus
Face detect focus
Contract detect focus
Phase detect focus
Total focus points 81 11
Cross type focus points - 9
Lens
Lens support Micro Four Thirds Pentax KAF2
Number of lenses 107 151
Focal length multiplier 2.1 1.5
Screen
Type of display Fully Articulated Fixed Type
Display sizing 3" 3"
Display resolution 1,037 thousand dots 921 thousand dots
Selfie friendly
Liveview
Touch functionality
Display technology - TFT LCD monitor with brightness/color adjustment and AR coating
Viewfinder Information
Viewfinder type Electronic Optical (pentaprism)
Viewfinder resolution 2,360 thousand dots -
Viewfinder coverage 100% 100%
Viewfinder magnification 0.62x 0.61x
Features
Lowest shutter speed 60s 30s
Highest shutter speed 1/8000s 1/6000s
Highest quiet shutter speed 1/16000s -
Continuous shooting rate 10.0fps 6.0fps
Shutter priority
Aperture priority
Manually set exposure
Exposure compensation Yes Yes
Set white balance
Image stabilization
Integrated flash
Flash distance no built-in flash 12.00 m (at ISO 100)
Flash settings Flash Auto, Redeye, Fill-in, Flash Off, Red-eye Slow sync (1st curtain), Slow sync (1st curtain), Slow sync (2nd curtain) Auto, On, Off, Red-eye, Slow Sync, Slow Sync+Redeye, Trailing Curtain Sync, Wireless
External flash
AE bracketing
WB bracketing
Highest flash synchronize - 1/180s
Exposure
Multisegment
Average
Spot
Partial
AF area
Center weighted
Video features
Supported video resolutions 1920 x 1080 (60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, 24p), 1280 x 720 (60p, 50p, 30p, 25p, 24p) 1920 x 1080 (30,25,24 fps), 1280 x 720 (60,50,30,25,24 fps), 640 x 424 (30,25,24 fps)
Max video resolution 1920x1080 1920x1080
Video format MPEG-4, H.264, Motion JPEG MPEG-4, H.264
Mic port
Headphone port
Connectivity
Wireless Built-In None
Bluetooth
NFC
HDMI
USB USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec) USB 2.0 (480 Mbit/sec)
GPS None Optional
Physical
Environmental sealing
Water proofing
Dust proofing
Shock proofing
Crush proofing
Freeze proofing
Weight 427 grams (0.94 lbs) 646 grams (1.42 lbs)
Physical dimensions 125 x 72 x 37mm (4.9" x 2.8" x 1.5") 130 x 97 x 71mm (5.1" x 3.8" x 2.8")
DXO scores
DXO All around rating 74 79
DXO Color Depth rating 23.1 23.7
DXO Dynamic range rating 12.4 13.1
DXO Low light rating 894 1087
Other
Battery life 330 pictures 710 pictures
Form of battery Battery Pack AA
Battery ID BLN-1 4 x AA
Self timer Yes (2 or 12 seconds, custom) Yes ( 2 or 12 seconds)
Time lapse shooting
Storage type SD/SDHC/SDXC SD/SDHC/SDXC
Card slots Single Single
Retail price $1,000 $600