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Nikon Z5 Vs Olympus Om-d Em1 Mark Ii: Which Mirrorless Camera Is Right For You?

Lindsey is a photographer based in Los Angeles. She has over 10 years of experience as a professional photographer specializing in portraits and events. Lindsey started her career with DSLR cameras but made the switch to Nikon's line of Z mirrorless cameras in 2020. Since then, she has been extensively...

What To Know

  • In the world of mirrorless cameras, the Nikon Z5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II stand out as two of the most popular and capable options available.
  • The Z5 also has a more traditional control layout, with a mode dial on the top plate and a control dial on the back of the camera.
  • The E-M1 Mark II has a more modern control layout, with a touchscreen LCD and a customizable control dial on the front of the camera.

In the world of mirrorless cameras, the Nikon Z5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II stand out as two of the most popular and capable options available. Both cameras offer excellent image quality, fast performance, and a wide range of features, making them ideal for a variety of photographers.

But which one is the better choice for you? In this detailed comparison, we’ll take a closer look at the Nikon Z5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II, comparing their key features and performance to help you make an informed decision.

Sensor and Image Quality

The Nikon Z5 features a 24.3-megapixel full-frame sensor, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has a 20.4-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor. While the Z5’s larger sensor gives it an advantage in terms of resolution and low-light performance, the E-M1 Mark II’s smaller sensor allows it to be more compact and lightweight.

In terms of image quality, both cameras produce excellent results. The Z5’s full-frame sensor gives it a slight edge in terms of dynamic range and low-light performance, but the E-M1 Mark II‘s smaller sensor still produces very good images, even in challenging conditions.

Autofocus and Performance

The Nikon Z5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II both offer fast and accurate autofocus systems. The Z5 uses a hybrid autofocus system that combines phase-detection and contrast-detection AF, while the E-M1 Mark II uses a contrast-detection AF system.

In practice, both cameras focus quickly and accurately, even in low-light conditions. The Z5’s hybrid AF system gives it a slight edge in terms of speed and accuracy, but the E-M1 Mark II‘s contrast-detection AF system is still very good.

Burst Shooting and Video

The Nikon Z5 can shoot up to 4.5 frames per second (fps) in continuous shooting mode, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II can shoot up to 10 fps. The E-M1 Mark II also has a Pro Capture mode that allows it to capture images before you fully press the shutter button, giving you a better chance of getting the perfect shot.

In terms of video, both cameras can shoot 4K video at up to 30 fps. The Z5 has a slight edge in terms of video quality, thanks to its full-frame sensor, but the E-M1 Mark II offers more advanced video features, such as 4K 60p recording and Cinema 4K recording.

Build Quality and Weather Sealing

The Nikon Z5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II are both well-built cameras with weather sealing. The Z5 is made of magnesium alloy, while the E-M1 Mark II is made of a combination of magnesium alloy and polycarbonate.

Both cameras are weather-sealed to protect them from dust and moisture, making them ideal for outdoor photography in challenging conditions.

Ergonomics and Handling

The Nikon Z5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II are both comfortable to hold and use. The Z5 has a larger grip than the E-M1 Mark II, which makes it easier to hold for extended periods of time.

The Z5 also has a more traditional control layout, with a mode dial on the top plate and a control dial on the back of the camera. The E-M1 Mark II has a more modern control layout, with a touchscreen LCD and a customizable control dial on the front of the camera.

Battery Life

The Nikon Z5 has a battery life of approximately 470 shots per charge, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has a battery life of approximately 420 shots per charge.

Both cameras can be charged via USB, which makes it easy to keep them powered up on the go.

Price

The Nikon Z5 is available for around $1,399, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II is available for around $1,499.

Which Camera is Right for You?

The Nikon Z5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II are both excellent cameras that offer a wide range of features and performance. The Z5 has a larger sensor and better image quality, while the E-M1 Mark II is more compact and lightweight and offers more advanced video features.

Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences. If you’re looking for a full-frame camera with excellent image quality and low-light performance, the Nikon Z5 is a great choice. If you’re looking for a more compact and lightweight camera with advanced video features, the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II is a great option.

Dynamic and Varied Conclusion

The Nikon Z5 and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II are both excellent choices for photographers of all levels. The Z5 offers excellent image quality and low-light performance, while the E-M1 Mark II is more compact and lightweight and offers more advanced video features. Ultimately, the best camera for you will depend on your individual needs and preferences.

Popular Questions

Q: Which camera has a better sensor?

A: The Nikon Z5 has a larger full-frame sensor, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor. The Z5’s larger sensor gives it an advantage in terms of resolution and low-light performance, but the E-M1 Mark II’s smaller sensor allows it to be more compact and lightweight.

Q: Which camera has faster autofocus?

A: The Nikon Z5 has a faster autofocus system than the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II. The Z5’s hybrid AF system combines phase-detection and contrast-detection AF, while the E-M1 Mark II uses a contrast-detection AF system.

Q: Which camera has better video capabilities?

A: The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II has better video capabilities than the Nikon Z5. The E-M1 Mark II can shoot 4K video at up to 60 fps, while the Z5 can only shoot 4K video at up to 30 fps. The E-M1 Mark II also offers more advanced video features, such as Cinema 4K recording.

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Lindsey

Lindsey is a photographer based in Los Angeles. She has over 10 years of experience as a professional photographer specializing in portraits and events. Lindsey started her career with DSLR cameras but made the switch to Nikon's line of Z mirrorless cameras in 2020. Since then, she has been extensively testing and reviewing Nikon's latest mirrorless cameras like the Z5, Z6, Z7 and Z50 on her blog. Through her writing on lindseyshoots.com, Lindsey aims to help other photographers make the transition from DSLRs to mirrorless. She shares detailed hands-on reviews, comparisons between different mirrorless camera models, tips for beginners, and photo tutorials. When she isn't testing cameras, Lindsey enjoys landscape, street and travel photography. Her work has been published in several magazines and online publications. Lindsey is also a member of the Nikon Professional Services program.
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