Welcome to our in-depth comparison of two popular micro four thirds cameras: the Panasonic Lumix S5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III. These cameras are both great options for photographers looking for a compact and versatile mirrorless camera. In this article, we will break down the key features and specifications of each camera, and compare them side by side to help you decide which one is right for you. Whether you’re a professional photographer or an avid hobbyist, this article will provide you with all the information you need to make an informed decision. So let’s dive in and see how these two micro four thirds cameras stack up against each other in terms of design, performance, and overall value.
When it comes to mirrorless cameras, the market is flooded with different brands and models, making it overwhelming for consumers to choose the right one. In this article, we will be focusing on two popular micro four thirds cameras – the Panasonic Lumix S5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III. Whether you’re a beginner looking for a user-friendly camera or a professional photographer in search of a high-quality alternative to a DSLR, this comparison review will help you make an informed decision.
First, let’s take a closer look at the Panasonic Lumix S5. This camera boasts a 24.2-megapixel full-frame sensor, making it a great option for capturing high-resolution images. It also has a 225-area autofocus system, allowing for fast and accurate focusing. In terms of video capabilities, the Lumix S5 can shoot 4K at 60 frames per second, making it a top choice for videographers as well.
On the other hand, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III has a 20.4-megapixel micro four thirds sensor. While it may have a lower resolution compared to the Lumix S5, its smaller sensor allows for more compact and lightweight design. This camera also has an impressive 121-point autofocus system, ensuring sharp and precise focusing. When it comes to video, the E-M5 Mark III can shoot 4K at 30 frames per second.
So, which one is better? It ultimately depends on your personal preferences and needs. If you prioritize high-resolution images and faster video frame rates, the Lumix S5 may be the better choice for you. However, if you value a smaller and more portable camera, the E-M5 Mark III may be the way to go.
Now let’s talk about lenses. Both cameras have a wide range of lenses available, but the Lumix S5 has an advantage with its full-frame sensor. This means that it can use both full-frame and micro four thirds lenses, giving users more options to choose from. The E-M5 Mark III, on the other hand, can only use micro four thirds lenses.
In terms of design, the Lumix S5 has a more traditional DSLR-like body with a built-in grip, while the E-M5 Mark III has a more compact and retro design. Both cameras have weather-sealing, making them suitable for shooting in various conditions.
When it comes to price, there is a significant difference between the two cameras. The Lumix S5 retails for around $2,000, while the E-M5 Mark III is priced at around $1,200. Keep in mind that these prices may vary depending on where you purchase them.
In conclusion, the Panasonic Lumix S5 and Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III are both excellent micro four thirds cameras with their own strengths and weaknesses. It’s important to consider your specific needs and preferences when deciding which one to go for. If you value high-resolution images and faster video frame rates, the Lumix S5 may be the better option. However, if portability and price are important factors for you, the E-M5 Mark III may be the way to go.
Video Capabilities
Panasonic Lumix S5: The Panasonic Lumix S5 offers impressive video capabilities, making it a top choice for content creators and videographers. It can record 4K video at 60 frames per second, as well as Full HD at 120 frames per second for slow motion shots. The camera also has a variety of video modes, including V-Log, which allows for a wider dynamic range and greater flexibility in color grading.
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III: While the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III may not have the same high-end video features as the Lumix S5, it still offers impressive video capabilities. It can record 4K video at 30 frames per second and Full HD at 120 frames per second. The camera also has built-in image stabilization, which is great for handheld shooting.
Winner: Overall, the Panasonic Lumix S5 edges out the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III when it comes to video capabilities. Its higher frame rate options and V-Log mode make it a better choice for professional video work.
Design and Build
The design and build quality of a camera can greatly affect its usability and durability. Let’s take a closer look at how the Panasonic Lumix S5 and Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III compare in this aspect.
Design: The Panasonic Lumix S5 has a sleek and modern design, with a solid grip and well-placed buttons for easy access. It also features a fully articulating touchscreen, making it perfect for vloggers or those who prefer to shoot from different angles. On the other hand, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III has a more traditional design with a retro feel, similar to classic film cameras. It has a smaller form factor and lacks a touchscreen, which may be a downside for some users.
Build Quality: Both cameras have a weather-sealed body, making them suitable for shooting in various weather conditions. However, the Lumix S5 has a more robust build with a magnesium alloy frame, while the OM-D E-M5 Mark III has a plastic body with some metal components. This may make the Lumix S5 more durable in the long run, especially for professional use.
Autofocus System
Both the Panasonic Lumix S5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III come equipped with advanced autofocus systems, making them suitable for a variety of shooting situations. However, there are some key differences between the two cameras. The Lumix S5 boasts a 225-point contrast-detection autofocus system, which is great for tracking moving subjects and ensuring accurate focus. On the other hand, the OM-D E-M5 Mark III has a 121-point phase-detection autofocus system, which is better for capturing fast-moving subjects and low-light situations.
Additionally, the Lumix S5 offers face and eye detection autofocus, which makes it easier to capture portraits with sharp focus on the subject’s face. The OM-D E-M5 Mark III also has this feature, but it is not as reliable as the Lumix S5’s autofocus system.
In terms of speed, the Lumix S5 has a faster autofocus system with a 0.08-second focus acquisition time, compared to the OM-D E-M5 Mark III’s 0.2-second focus acquisition time. This makes the Lumix S5 better suited for capturing fast-moving subjects or action shots.
Overall, both cameras have impressive autofocus systems that can handle a variety of shooting situations. However, if you prioritize fast-moving subjects and low-light performance, the OM-D E-M5 Mark III may be a better option for you. If you want reliable face and eye detection autofocus, the Lumix S5 would be a better choice.
Price
When it comes to purchasing a new camera, price is often a major deciding factor. Both the Panasonic Lumix S5 and Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III are competitively priced within the micro four thirds market. However, there are slight differences in their price points that may affect your decision.
The Panasonic Lumix S5 has a higher price point, starting at around $1,699 for the body only. This may be a bit more expensive for some consumers, especially those on a budget. On the other hand, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is priced at around $1,299 for the body only, making it a more affordable option for those looking to save some money.
However, it is important to note that the Panasonic Lumix S5 does come with some advanced features that may justify its higher price point. For example, it has a larger sensor size compared to the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III, which can result in better image quality and low light performance. It also has a higher resolution and faster burst shooting capabilities.
Ultimately, it comes down to what features are most important to you and your budget. If you are willing to invest in a more expensive camera with advanced features, the Panasonic Lumix S5 may be the better option. But if you are looking for a budget-friendly option that still offers great performance, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is worth considering.
Lens Compatibility
When it comes to mirrorless cameras, one of the most important factors to consider is lens compatibility. Both the Panasonic Lumix S5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III are part of the micro four thirds system, which means they can use lenses from various manufacturers. This gives users a wide range of options when it comes to choosing the perfect lens for their needs. However, it is important to note that not all lenses are created equal and some may not be fully compatible with these cameras. It is recommended to do thorough research and consult with experts before investing in lenses for these cameras.
The Panasonic Lumix S5 is compatible with lenses from the micro four thirds system, as well as other lenses through the use of adapters. This includes lenses from popular brands such as Sigma, Tamron, and Zeiss. However, it is important to note that some functions may not be fully supported when using non-Panasonic lenses.
On the other hand, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III is also compatible with micro four thirds lenses and can also use adapters for other lens systems. In addition, Olympus offers a wide range of high-quality lenses specifically designed for their cameras. These lenses are known for their compact size and excellent image quality, making them a popular choice among photographers.
When it comes to lens compatibility, both the Panasonic Lumix S5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III offer versatility and options for users. Whether you prefer to stick with lenses from the micro four thirds system or explore other options through adapters, both of these cameras have you covered.
Key Features
When it comes to choosing the right camera, understanding its key features is crucial. In this section, we will take a closer look at what sets the Panasonic Lumix S5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III apart from each other.
The Panasonic Lumix S5 boasts a 24.2-megapixel full-frame CMOS sensor, providing exceptional image quality and impressive low-light performance. It also offers 14-bit RAW shooting and a native ISO range of 100-51,200, expandable up to 50-204,800. This makes it a great option for both professional photographers and beginners looking to step up their photography game.
On the other hand, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III features a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor with 20.4 megapixels. While this may seem like a disadvantage compared to the Lumix S5, the E-M5 Mark III makes up for it with its compact size and lightweight design. This makes it a perfect travel companion for photographers on-the-go.
In terms of autofocus, both cameras offer impressive capabilities. The Lumix S5 has a 225-area DFD contrast-detect autofocus system, while the E-M5 Mark III boasts an impressive 121-point hybrid AF system. Both cameras also offer fast burst shooting speeds, with the Lumix S5 at 7 frames per second and the E-M5 Mark III at 10 frames per second.
Another key feature to consider is video capabilities. The Lumix S5 offers 4K video recording at up to 60 frames per second, while the E-M5 Mark III offers 4K recording at up to 30 frames per second. Additionally, the Lumix S5 has a headphone and mic jack for improved audio quality, while the E-M5 Mark III does not.
While both cameras have their own unique strengths, it ultimately comes down to personal preference and what you prioritize in a camera. Whether it’s full-frame image quality or compact design and portability, the Lumix S5 and E-M5 Mark III are both excellent options for photographers of all levels.
In the battle of micro four thirds cameras, the Panasonic Lumix S5 and Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III are both strong contenders. Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, and it ultimately comes down to personal preference and needs. Whether you’re a beginner or a professional, both of these cameras offer great features and capabilities that make them worthy options in the world of mirrorless cameras.