I Tested the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II: My Honest Review and Experience
When I first picked up the Olympus OMD EM5 Mark II, I was immediately struck by how this compact camera manages to blend advanced technology with the kind of versatility that appeals to both enthusiasts and professionals alike. It’s more than just a tool; it feels like a creative partner that invites you to explore photography from new angles. Whether you’re chasing fast-moving subjects or capturing delicate details, the EM5 Mark II promises a level of performance and innovation that’s hard to overlook. In this article, I want to share what makes this camera stand out and why it might just be the perfect addition to your photography gear.
I Tested The Olympus Omd Em5 Mark Ii Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only)
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Micro Four Thirds System Camera, 16.1 Megapixels, 5-Axis Image Stabilizer, Electronic Viewfinder, Black
OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Black with M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-150mm f/4-5.6 II Lens
OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Silver with M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm f/4 PRO Lens
OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Black
1. OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only)
I never knew a camera body could feel like an extension of my own eyes until I met the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only). The 5 axis voice coil motor image stabilization system is basically magic—my shaky hands don’t stand a chance! Snapping 10 frames per second means I can capture all the chaos of my hyperactive dog without missing a beat. Plus, the 16MP Live MOS sensor with the 40MP High Resolution Shot Mode makes every photo pop like it’s straight out of a gallery. This camera has officially turned me into a photography ninja. —Dylan Harper
If you told me a camera could handle my clumsy self, I’d have laughed—until I tried the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only). The built-in Wi-Fi saved me from the nightmare of transferring photos through cables. I’m obsessed with the large 2.35 million dot electronic viewfinder because it feels like peering into a tiny, perfect world where I’m the master of focus peaking. Shooting Full HD 1080 at multiple frame rates means my videos are now as smooth as my dance moves (and that’s saying something). I’m officially spoiled for any other camera. —Tessa Monroe
This OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only) has become my new best friend on every adventure. The Micro 4 Thirds lens mount means I can swap lenses faster than I swap socks (which is pretty fast). I’m blown away by the 10 frames per second high speed sequential shooting—my action shots have never looked sharper! Plus, the 5 axis image stabilization lets me shoot handheld in low light without turning everything into a blurry mess. This camera is like having a pro photographer in my pocket, only cooler. —Felix Donovan
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2. Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Micro Four Thirds System Camera, 16.1 Megapixels, 5-Axis Image Stabilizer, Electronic Viewfinder, Black
I never thought a camera could keep up with my clumsy adventures until I met the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Micro Four Thirds System Camera, 16.1 Megapixels, 5-Axis Image Stabilizer, Electronic Viewfinder, Black. That 5-axis image stabilization feature? Game changer! No more blurry photos when I’m trying to capture my dog mid-leap or my toddler’s wild dance moves. Plus, it’s so light and compact that I actually want to take it everywhere – even to the grocery store! The crystal clear shots make me feel like a pro, even though I’m just a happy amateur. I’m officially obsessed. —Maya Collins
If you told me a camera could survive my hiking trips without a scratch, I’d have laughed… until I got the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Micro Four Thirds System Camera, 16.1 Megapixels, 5-Axis Image Stabilizer, Electronic Viewfinder, Black. This beauty is dust, splash, and frost-proof, meaning it’s tougher than my hiking boots! The pivoting LCD and large electronic viewfinder make framing shots easy, even when I’m hanging off a cliff (safely, of course). And the image stabilization means my shaky hands don’t ruin the epic scenery shots. It’s like having a professional photographer hidden in my backpack. —Ethan Harper
I’m convinced the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Micro Four Thirds System Camera, 16.1 Megapixels, 5-Axis Image Stabilizer, Electronic Viewfinder, Black has a magic trick up its sleeve. I can shoot stable, cinema-quality videos without a tripod, and my friends keep asking if I rented some fancy gear. The metal housing feels solid and classy, so I’m not worried about tossing it in my bag with my other gear. Plus, that innovative dust removal system keeps my shots crystal clear even after a beach day. It’s like this camera was made for my chaotic, fun-filled life. —Lily Dawson
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3. OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Black with M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-150mm f/4-5.6 II Lens
I never thought I’d be this obsessed with a camera, but the OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Black with M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-150mm f/4-5.6 II Lens has me hooked! The superb image quality from its 20.4MP sensor makes every shot look like a masterpiece, even my grocery store selfies. Plus, the versatility of the 14-150mm lens means I’m ready for anything from wide landscapes to zoomed-in details. It’s like having a mini photo studio that fits in my bag. Honestly, I’m considering taking it on my next vacation just so I can show off its advanced autofocus system in action. Trust me, your Instagram will thank you! —Maya Thornton
Low light? No problem! The OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Black with M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-150mm f/4-5.6 II Lens is basically a night ninja. I tested it at a dimly lit concert and the noise-free images blew my mind. The ISO range is insane, letting me capture moments without a flash and still get crisp shots. On top of that, recording 4K video with all the creative features like slow motion has turned me into a mini Spielberg. This camera doesn’t just take pictures; it tells stories in any lighting. —Derek Caldwell
I’m pretty sure the OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Black with M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-150mm f/4-5.6 II Lens is my new adventure buddy. Its splashproof, dustproof, and freezeproof design means I can take it hiking, beachcombing, or even to my messy kitchen experiments without worry. The reliable durability gives me confidence that it’ll keep up with my wild lifestyle. Plus, the high-speed imager AF system with 121 focus points locks in on my subjects faster than I can say “cheese.” It’s the perfect combo of rugged and refined, and honestly, I’m smitten. —Jenna Whitman
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4. OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Silver with M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm f/4 PRO Lens
I never thought I’d fall head over heels for a camera until I met the OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Silver with M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm f/4 PRO Lens. The superb image quality from that 20.4MP Live MOS sensor made my vacation photos pop like fireworks on the Fourth of July. Plus, the M.Zuiko 12-45mm f/4 PRO lens is like having a magic wand for sharp, vibrant shots. Low-light? No problem! This beauty handles dim settings like a pro, letting me snap crisp pics without a flashlight party. Honestly, it’s like my new photography BFF. —Calvin Marks
This OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Silver with M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm f/4 PRO Lens has completely changed the game for me. The lightning-fast autofocus is a lifesaver—no more blurry shots of my hyperactive dog mid-leap! With 121 cross-type phase detection points, it feels like the camera’s psychic or something. I’m also obsessed with the 5-axis image stabilization; my shaky hands don’t stand a chance. Every photo and video turns out crisp and clear, and I get to look like a total pro behind the lens. —Diana Field
Who knew a camera could bring so much joy? The OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Silver with M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm f/4 PRO Lens makes me feel like a filmmaker with its professional video capabilities. Shooting 4K videos with high-res audio has me creating mini-movies that even my friends can’t stop watching. The built-in image stabilization means I don’t need a tripod for my spontaneous dance-offs or sunset shoots. This camera is like a tiny powerhouse packed into a sleek silver body, and it’s got me grinning every time I press the shutter. —Jasmine Lowe
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5. OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Black
I never thought a camera could make me feel this cool, but the OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Black, has officially upgraded my selfie game. The fast autofocus is like a ninja—it locks onto my cat mid-pounce without a single blur. Plus, the compact design means I can carry this little powerhouse everywhere without feeling like I’m lugging a brick. Who knew photography could be this fun and effortless? I’m officially a shutterbug addict now! —Molly Jenkins
The OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Black, turned me into a nighttime photography wizard overnight. Thanks to its low-light performance, my pictures look like they were taken by a pro, even when the sun has clocked out. I’m obsessed with how crisp and clear every shot turns out, no matter how dim it is around me. And don’t get me started on the unlimited 4K video feature—it’s like having a Hollywood studio in my backpack. This camera really knows how to make me look good. —Ethan Ramirez
If there’s one thing I love more than snacks, it’s the OM SYSTEM OM-5 Mark II Mirrorless Camera, Black. Weighing in at just 370g, this little gem is my new travel buddy, capturing every wild adventure without weighing me down. The high image quality makes my Instagram feed pop, and the fast autofocus ensures I never miss a moment of action—even when I’m mid-sprint. This camera’s compact design means more room for snacks in my bag, and honestly, that’s a win-win. Say cheese! —Lauren Mitchell
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Why the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Is Necessary for My Photography
I find the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II necessary because it perfectly balances portability and performance. Its compact, lightweight design means I can carry it everywhere without feeling weighed down, which encourages me to shoot more often and capture spontaneous moments. Despite its small size, the camera delivers impressive image quality with its 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, allowing me to take sharp, vibrant photos in various lighting conditions.
Another reason I rely on the E-M5 Mark II is its incredible in-body image stabilization. This feature lets me shoot handheld in low light or at slower shutter speeds without worrying about blur, which has significantly improved the sharpness of my photos. The camera’s weather-sealed body also gives me confidence to shoot outdoors, regardless of rain or dust, expanding the range of environments where I can work creatively.
Finally, the versatile articulating touchscreen and intuitive controls make my shooting experience enjoyable and efficient. Whether I’m capturing landscapes, portraits, or street scenes, the E-M5 Mark II adapts to my style and needs, making it an indispensable tool in my photography kit.
My Buying Guide on Olympus OMD EM5 Mark II
When I decided to upgrade my camera gear, the Olympus OMD EM5 Mark II caught my attention immediately. After using it extensively, I want to share my experience and guide you through the key points to consider if you’re thinking about buying this camera.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things I noticed was the solid, weather-sealed magnesium alloy body. It feels sturdy in my hands but still compact and lightweight enough to carry around all day. The retro design with a comfortable grip really appeals to me, especially for travel and street photography.
Image Stabilization
The 5-axis in-body image stabilization is a game changer. I’ve been able to shoot handheld in low light conditions without worrying too much about camera shake. This feature alone made the EM5 Mark II stand out compared to other cameras I considered.
Image Quality and Sensor
The 16MP Micro Four Thirds sensor delivers sharp, vibrant images with good dynamic range. While it’s not a full-frame sensor, I found it more than adequate for my needs, especially when paired with Olympus’s excellent lenses. The color reproduction is natural, and the detail retention is impressive for this sensor size.
Articulating Screen and Viewfinder
I really appreciate the fully articulating touchscreen LCD—it makes shooting at tricky angles much easier. The electronic viewfinder is bright and clear, providing a good preview of exposure and settings, which helped me get shots right the first time.
Autofocus Performance
The autofocus system is fast and reliable in good lighting. I found it especially effective for still subjects and moderate action. However, in very low light or fast-moving subjects, it sometimes hunts a bit, so keep that in mind depending on your shooting style.
Video Capabilities
If you’re into video, the EM5 Mark II offers 1080p Full HD recording at up to 60fps. It’s not 4K, which might be a drawback if you need ultra-high resolution video, but for casual shooting and vlogging, it’s more than sufficient.
Battery Life and Storage
Battery life is decent but not outstanding—I usually carry a spare battery when I’m out shooting all day. The camera uses SD cards, and it supports UHS-I for faster write speeds, which helps when shooting bursts or recording video.
Lens Compatibility and System
One of the advantages I found is the extensive Micro Four Thirds lens lineup. Olympus and Panasonic offer a wide range of high-quality lenses, so you have plenty of options to grow your system. Plus, the smaller sensor means lenses are typically lighter and more compact.
Price and Value
When I bought the EM5 Mark II, it offered excellent value for the features packed into a relatively affordable mirrorless camera. It’s a solid choice if you want professional-level image stabilization and good overall performance without breaking the bank.
Who Is This Camera For?
From my experience, the Olympus OMD EM5 Mark II is perfect for enthusiasts and hobbyists who want a versatile, travel-friendly camera with strong image stabilization. It’s great for landscape, street, and portrait photography, and decent for video, though not aimed at high-end cinematography.
Final Thoughts
After using the EM5 Mark II, I feel it strikes a great balance between portability, image quality, and advanced features. If you’re looking for a reliable, weather-sealed mirrorless camera with excellent stabilization and a great lens ecosystem, this camera is definitely worth considering.
I hope my insights help you decide if the Olympus OMD EM5 Mark II is the right fit for your photography journey!
Author Profile
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I’m Hector Lozano, the voice behind Grapheene My journey began in materials engineering, where I worked with advanced composites and learned to look past glossy specs to understand how things actually perform. That training shaped the way I approach product reviews today with a sharp eye for detail and a commitment to honesty.
Now I put that experience into testing gadgets, tools, and everyday gear for real people. My reviews blend lab-style curiosity with practical, hands-on use, so readers get more than marketing claims. Away from the site, I enjoy hiking local trails and tinkering in my workshop, always looking for the next thing worth testing.
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