OM System OM-5: a micro 4/3 camera in the shadow of Olympus

OM System recycles Olympus chassis

OM System is back at the end of October 2022 with its second device in a year, the OM-5, a new hybrid with a 4/3″ sensor. Externally, if the case tells you something, it’s completely normal This is actually the OM-D E-M5 Mark III launched by the late Olympus a few years ago.

The return of the microUSB port

OM System does not bother and for coquetry only, the logos and nomenclatures have been modified. This apart, in terms of handling, it is exactly the same device, with the faults of its elder. Thus, this mid-range case from the end of 2022 still has a microUSB port for power supply and file transfer. Note that by connecting your box via this USB port to a computer, you get a webcam. No need for additional software or drivers.

An IP53 box

Available in two versions, black and silver, the OM-5 will therefore not confuse Olympus fans. We thus find the electronic viewfinder of 2.36 Mpts, which accuses a little the blow. The screen is still touch-sensitive and on a ball joint, and the small 412 g device slips around quite easily. The device is now guaranteed IP53 (the number 5 guarantees resistance to dust, while the 3 designates protection against rainwater up to 60° from the vertical). It is frost resistant down to -10°C.

Same sensor, new CPU

The real novelties are to be found under the hood of the beast. Not in the sensor, which with its definition of 20.4 Mx, is the same as that integrated into the E-M5, but in the processor. Called TruepicIX, it is not the CPU integrated into the OM-1, but that of the OM-D E-M1 Mark III, which was a benchmark in terms of responsiveness. Which bodes well for OM-5.

Other developments, the mechanical stabilization of the sensor goes to 6.5 stops, against 5.5 previously. Thus, in synchronization with stabilized optics, we arrive at a theoretical gain of 7.5 stops.

Significantly improved AF tracking

The OM-5 also gains the high resolution handheld function of 50 Mpx, thanks to the movement of the sensor, and up to 80 Mpx on a tripod. An ND filter simulation (four levels – ND 16) is now included. The autofocus (121-point phase detection), tracking and recognition of subjects and eyes would have been greatly improved, in line with what is found on the OM-1. It is thus possible, after recognition of several faces, to select which of them to prioritize.

Up to 30 fps burst

The burst in electronic shutter always reaches 30 fps in burst with tracking. The Pro-capture mode, which allows you to record bursts before triggering, is still in the game, with up to 20 fps captured. For macro enthusiasts – for example – the device has a mode that facilitates focus stacking. In the register of new modes, we can also count on the AF Starry Sky function. This allows astrophotography enthusiasts to focus directly on the stars.

For video, the box also takes over the functions of its predecessor. You can film up to 4K DCI and 24 fps. In 4K UHD, we go up to 30 fps. For lovers of slow motion, it will be necessary to switch to Full HD to reach 120 fps. Calibration lovers will be delighted to have the OM-Log at their disposal.

Price and availability

The OM System OM-5 will be available from the end of November 2022 for €1299 naked. As a kit with the Olympus M.Zuiko Digital ED 12-45mm F4 PRO zoom, it will cost you €1699. A second kit at the same price with the M.Zuiko Digital ED 14‑150mm F4.0‑5.6 II will be released. In its time, the OM-D E-M5 Mark III had been launched for 1199 € bare.

The OM-5 then comes to walk on the toes of devices such as the Canon EOS R7, the Fujifilm X-T4, or even the Nikon Z5 to some extent.