Olympus Stylus 5010 vs Panasonic Lumix DMC-G10: An Experienced Photographer’s Deep Dive

If you’ve been poking around the trenches of budget and enthusiast photography gear from the early 2010s, you might have stumbled on two very different beasts: Olympus’s 2010-era Stylus 5010, a pocket-sized ultracompact digital camera trimming the fat for sheer portability, and the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G10, Panasonic’s entry-level mirrorless camera that marked a significant jump into the Micro Four Thirds system. Both arrived in 2010 but addressed dramatically different user demands and photographic ambitions.

I’ve spent a fair chunk of my 15+ year career testing cameras across genres - from fast-action sports to pungent macro portraits - so today I’m peeling back the layers on these two models to give you a candid, nuanced take. We’ll go beyond spec-sheet snooze-fests and focus on real-world usability, image quality, and workflow practicality. Whether you’re a casual snapper considering your upgrade path, a budget-conscious enthusiast, or a pro looking for a light backup, this detailed comparison will steer your choice.

Pocket-Sized vs SLR-Style: Size, Handling, and Ergonomics

Let’s start where first impressions count - the physical feel and design.

The Olympus Stylus 5010 is what I’d call an ultracompact camera designed to vanish into your pocket (and in fact, Olympus nicknamed the line mju to echo that discreetness). Measuring a razor-thin 95 x 56 x 20 mm and weighing a mere 126 grams, it’s truly a breeze to carry anywhere. Meanwhile, the Panasonic G10 sprints into a different class - an SLR-mimicking mirrorless body sized at 124 x 90 x 74 mm, tipping the scales at 388 grams. It’s almost triple the weight and volume of the Stylus, which translates into a profoundly different handling experience.

In testing both, the Olympus felt like a steady companion for spontaneous shots. Its tiny, rounded edges fit neatly into small bags or coat pockets without the bulk. However, the flip side is that the 5010’s tiny controls and absence of physical dials felt limiting - I found awkward moments managing settings quickly, especially for me, the guy who likes popping clubs for thumbs on big buttons.

The Panasonic G10, while bulkier, offers a far more camera-like grip, with ample buttons, dials, and a textured body that just feels reassuring when you’re framing shots carefully. Holding the G10 literally inspires a different mindset - the photographer rather than just the snapshot taker. Also, the bigger body means better heat management and more room for a larger battery.

If portability is your absolute priority and control minimalism isn’t a deal-breaker, the Stylus 5010 wins here hands-down. But if you want to own your camera rather than letting it own you, the G10’s ergonomics will please you.

Design Details: Control Layout, Viewfinders, and Screens

The Olympus 5010 sports a fixed, non-touch 2.7” LCD with 230k dots, which is passable but not spectacular. It’s decent for casual framing but easily struggles under bright sun due to limited brightness and viewing angles. There’s no viewfinder or articulated screen; live view is your only option.

On the flip side, the Panasonic G10 features a slightly larger 3” TFT LCD at 460k dots, offering crisper previews. More significantly, it sports a 202k dot electronic viewfinder (EVF) with 100% coverage and 0.52x magnification. This EVF was a game changer in its class, letting you compose shots with stability and clarity even in harsh environments.

The control layout on the G10 is also miles better - dedicated physical exposure compensation, aperture and shutter dials, and an intuitive menu system respond well under pressure. The Olympus 5010’s menu is basic, tough to speed-navigate, and only offers program auto modes - no aperture priority, shutter priority, or manual exposure control.

If you regularly shoot outdoors, often in bright light, or want instant feedback on complex exposure choices, the G10’s viewfinder and controls give you a clear advantage.

Sensor and Image Quality: How Much Does Size Matter?

Now to the heart of the matter - sensor tech and image output. From years of comparing hundreds of models, sensor size and technology are the prime determinants of overall image quality, especially at high ISO.

The Olympus Stylus 5010 packs a 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor measuring 6.08 x 4.56 mm with a diagonal area around 27.7 mm² and 14 megapixels. CCD sensors were known for decent color rendition but lagging dynamic range and noise control in low light by 2010, largely due to their readout technologies.

The Panasonic DMC-G10 houses a much larger Four Thirds CMOS sensor measuring 17.3 x 13 mm, roughly 225 mm² in area, with 12 megapixels. The four-thirds sensor area is about 8 times larger than the Olympus sensor, which, from a physics standpoint, means more light-gathering capability, better signal-to-noise ratio, and superior dynamic range.

From extensive hands-on testing, this plays out as:

• The G10’s images display richer tonal gradations, cleaner shadow detail, and far less high ISO noise above ISO 800, making it better suited for low-light scenarios and print-quality landscape work.
• The Olympus 5010’s images are good for casual sharing and daylight snapshots but exhibit limited dynamic range and noticeable noise creeping in past ISO 400.
• Sharpness and detail are surprisingly decent on the Stylus given its price and sensor size, but optical limitations on its fixed zoom lens cap the edge.
• The G10’s native support for RAW files (unlike the Stylus’s JPEG-only output) gives photographers significant latitude in post-processing - a critical professional and enthusiast advantage.

In all my years judging sensor prowess, the factor of sensor size combined with CMOS tech and RAW support indicates the Panasonic G10 aligns closer with higher-quality imaging, while the Olympus 5010 is more of an entry-level everyday shooter.

Lens Choices and Zoom Versatility

Lens selection profoundly affects your photographic opportunities.

The Olympus 5010 has a fixed 26-130mm (35mm equivalent) 5x zoom lens with a variable aperture from f/2.8 at the wide end to f/6.5 at telephoto. It’s tiny, light, and satisfies casual users looking for a straightforward point-and-shoot experience without lens changes.

The Panasonic G10, however, uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, granting access to over a hundred interchangeable lenses ranging from fast primes to robust telephotos and specialized macro glass.

This is a huge advantage. In testing the G10 with several MFT lenses over the years - ranging from the affordable kit zooms to top-end Leica primes - I found flexibility to shoot portrait bokeh magic, wildlife telephotos, and super sharp landscapes, switching lenses as the scene demands.

The Olympus lens, while convenient, is more limited:

• Aperture range means low light and shallow depth-of-field bokeh (key to portraiture) is limited, especially at telephoto.
• Manual focus is unavailable; the camera relies on simpler contrast detection AF with no eye detection, an important downside in fast or precision shooting.
• Macro focusing goes down to 7cm, enough for casual close-ups but nothing too artistic.

Meanwhile, the G10 lets you attach dedicated macro lenses with super close focusing and great bokeh, thanks largely to wider apertures and better optical quality.

Autofocus and Shooting Speed

In my practical testing, autofocus speed and accuracy shift dramatically between these two models.

The Olympus Stylus 5010 uses contrast-detection AF only, with single AF, live view focusing, no continuous focus for moving subjects, and no face or eye detection.

Meanwhile, the Panasonic G10 offers contrast detection AF with face detection, continuous AF for tracking, and selectable AF area modes - good, but not yet phase detection AF since that was not widely implemented in early MFT cameras. Burst mode clocks to 3 frames per second, while the 5010 manages only 1 fps.

This makes the G10 a more reliable choice for:

• Sports and wildlife where tracking performance counts.
• Capturing fleeting street moments with better focus lock.

For static subjects like landscapes or posed portraits, the 5010’s AF is adequate but slowish, occasionally hunting.

Durability, Build, and Battery Life

Both cameras lack weather sealing and rugged protections like dust or freezeproofing. They’re essentially indoor and fair-weather shooters.

The Olympus battery life details are scarce, but given the tiny body and older Li-50B pack, expect modest capacity. The G10 counters that with a larger battery rated at approximately 380 shots per charge, significantly more suitable for travel and extended outings.

The G10’s build feels sturdier and better suited for handling rougher outdoor use. The Olympus 5010’s tiny plastic shell is great for light travels but not long hikes or challenging environments.

Video Capabilities: What Can They Offer?

Both cameras record 720p HD video at 30fps, but neither supports 1080p or high frame rates, reflecting the era.

The Olympus 5010 videos are limited to basic motion JPEG files without external mic support. The G10 also records motion JPEG but with more manual exposure options during video.

Neither camera offers advanced video features like image stabilization (only the 5010 has sensor-shift IS but only for stills), headphone jacks, or simultaneous audio control.

If video is a secondary interest on a strict budget, the 5010’s simple HD videos suffice for casual sharing. More serious videographers should look elsewhere or at least lean towards the G10 for improved manual controls.

Real-World Photographic Use Cases and Genre Suitability

Let’s walk through real-life photography disciplines and see where each camera excels or falls short.

Portrait Photography

Portraits demand smooth skin tone rendering, precise eye focusing, and creamy background bokeh.

• The Olympus 5010’s small sensor and tiny fixed lens aperture restrict shallow depth of field; backgrounds tend to stay busy.
• No face or eye detection AF, meaning you need patience and steady hands.
• The Panasonic G10’s larger sensor, wingman autofocus with face detection, and access to fast prime lenses like the 25mm f/1.4 make it far superior for portraits.

If capturing expressive, professional-ish portraits is your game, G10 is clearly the go-to.

Landscape Photography

Landscapes thrive on resolution, dynamic range, and weather robustness.

• The 5010’s 14 MP resolution is a plus in theory, but dynamic range lags.
• G10 offers cleaner, richer tonal gradations and better highlight recovery at base ISO.
• Weather sealing is absent on both, so mind weather.
• Larger sensor means better detail retention, especially when cropping.

Landscape shooters who want prints beyond web sharing will prefer the G10’s image quality and lens variety.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Tracking fast subjects demands burst speed and reliable autofocus.

• 5010 is seriously limited here: 1 fps burst, no continuous AF.
• G10 offers 3 fps burst, continuous AF tracking, face detection, and MFT telephoto lens compatibility.
• Larger sensor and higher ISO capabilities on the G10 give better low-light sports shooting potential.

For any kind of motion-intensive photography, Panasonic’s system is your ally.

Street and Travel Photography

Street demands discreetness, portability, and quick response.

• Olympus 5010 shines with pocket portability and stealth.
• The G10, bulkier and heavier, may slow down quick grab shots or make you stand out.
• Battery life advantage on G10 supports longer shoots.
• Image quality advantage leans to Panasonic for low-light urban scenes.

For photographers prioritizing travel lightness and street candids, the Olympus is still relevant.

Macro Photography

Fine detail close-ups require close focusing and stabilization.

• Olympus 5010 focusing to 7cm is OK but limited.
• G10 with dedicated macro lenses and customizable focusing offers huge versatility and image quality benefits.
• Olympus sensor-shift IS can help with macro stills; G10 lacks in-body stabilization but benefits from lens IS on certain lenses.

Macro enthusiasts benefit significantly from G10’s ecosystem.

Night and Astro Photography

High ISO performance and manual exposure controls are key.

• Olympus’s CCD sensor noisier at ISO above 400; limited shutter speed max of 1/2000 sec.
• Panasonic shoots up to ISO 6400 native and offers full manual controls including aperture and shutter priority.

This hands the night sky and astro shooters the G10 outright win.

Video and Content Creation

Both limited to 720p recording, neither with mic jacks or advanced codecs.

Nevertheless, G10’s manual exposure video gives more control for creative recording.

Professional Reliability and Workflow

• RAW support on Panasonic G10, no RAW on Olympus 5010.
• Workflow integration simpler with Panasonic for editing and printing.
• Storage formats: 5010 SDHC and internal; G10 SD/SDHC/SDXC.
• HDMI output on both supports live viewing, but G10’s larger body is generally more reliable for long sessions.

Connectivity and Storage

Neither model offers Bluetooth, Wi-Fi, NFC, or GPS, so expect no wireless transfer magic.

Both support SD/SDHC cards, but the G10 can handle larger capacity SDXC cards, future-proofing storage needs.

Pricing and Value Assessment

At launch:

• Olympus 5010 debuted around $150 USD, aiming at the budget snapshooter wanting great portability.
• Panasonic G10 launched at about $550 USD, targeting budding enthusiasts wanting a system camera.

Given price-to-performance, the Olympus 5010 offers unbeatable portability at a pocket-money price.

The G10, while pricier, offers a versatile system with much more room to grow as a photographer.

Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses

Final Verdict and Recommendations

For the casual, cheapskate shooter who wants something to slip in the pocket and shoot effortlessly with decent daylight image quality: the Olympus Stylus 5010 is a charming little companion. Its sensor-shift stabilization and sharp 5x zoom make for nice travel memory shots and street candids without fuss. Just temper your expectations - you’ll hit limits in low light, speed, and control.

If you’re aiming to grow your skills with a flexible system, craving better image quality, manual exposure options, and a healthy lens ecosystem to explore genres like portraits, landscapes, wildlife, or macro, then you’ll want to pony up for the Panasonic Lumix DMC-G10. The body size is a tradeoff, but you gain tremendous photographic potential, low-light performance, and workflow control with RAW shooting.

Olympus 5010 front Olympus 5010 screen back Panasonic G10 front Panasonic G10 screen back

In short:

• Olympus Stylus 5010: Casual snapshots, travel-friendly, budget buy.
• Panasonic Lumix DMC-G10: Entry-level enthusiast mirrorless, versatile and expandable.

If I had to pick one for my kit in 2010, the G10’s image and creative control would sway me every time despite its bulk and price. But sometimes, you really do want to disappear in a pocket - and that’s where Olympus reigns.

Closing Thoughts

Choosing between the Stylus 5010 and the Lumix G10 fundamentally comes down to intent and budget. They are not seeking to be direct competitors but cater to photographers at very different stages.

Having extensively tested both and their contemporaries, I find value and compromises in each, which I hope this analysis illuminated in a useful way for you. Good photography gear isn’t just about specs; it’s about how the tools fit your hands, habits, and goals.

So, whether you want the discreet pocket warrior or a budding mirrorless workhorse, you’re now better equipped to make a choice that fits your craft and budget - and that’s what real expertise is all about.

Happy shooting!

Disclaimer: While these models are now legacy gear, the lessons in sensor tech, ergonomics, and system flexibility remain valuable when evaluating modern choices in the ever-evolving camera landscape.