The new OM-5 II
Lightweight photography on-the-go gets an update!
If you're looking for a small, lightweight all-rounder with compact Lens, you'll quickly end up at OM System. We were able to test the new OM-5 II before the official release date and present all the new functions and features here.
Design & Body
Basically, the design of the new model follows the guiding principle of the OM series in its compact, timeless design, which is available in the body colors black, silver and sand-beige. In a visual comparison with the predecessor model, two small but subtle changes are noticeable on the OM-5 II, which are dedicated to improved handling. The body has a slightly deeper grip, making it easier to hold, especially at longer focal lengths.
The most exciting new feature is probably the new CP button, which takes the place of the former exposure compensation button next to the shutter release. This button enables quick access to the most important camera functions and will be presented in detail in a later part of this article.
The final and not insignificant update to the body is the new USB-C port, which can now be used to charge the camera on the move, for example via a power bank. This is certainly a relief on a multi-day hiking tour. The camera can also be quickly and easily converted into a web cam.
Speaking of multi-day hiking tours: the body of the OM-5 II is of course equipped for bad weather and dusty environments. It is splash-proof, frost-proof and absolutely dust-proof. However, if a speck of dust does get onto the sensor, the Super-Sonic Wave Filter is sure to shake it down again with 35,000 vibrations per second when switched on.
OM SYSTEM OM-5 II Housing silver
- OM System OM-5 Mark II
- Ultra-compact lightweight mirrorless camera weighing only 370 g - ideal for hiking and VanLife!
- Ready for any adventure thanks to IP53 rating
- With new CP button, hands-free assistant, USB-C port and more
- Color: Silver
Sensor & performance
What about the inner values of the OM-5 II? First of all, we find the familiar 20.4 MP Live MOS sensor (Micro-Four-Thirds) and TruePic IX processor. This combination enables the innovative Face and Eye Priority AF modes and the practical "Computational Photography" functions, such as the four-stage ND filter or the Live Composite, where you can follow the development of your long exposure live on the display.
Like its predecessor, this camera can play some technical games, such as HDR, multiple exposure and focus stacking, which can be really fun on a trip through nature. If the 20 megapixels are not enough for you, you can increase this to 50 megapixels in high-res mode and easily take photos handheld or from a tripod.
Image stabilization
The compact 5-axis stabilization of the sensor, which can cushion up to 7.5 exposure steps, is also very helpful here. Taking sharp hand-held pictures with a potential exposure time of ½ second opens up many possibilities, and not just in the wilderness. Creative image composition on-the-go, just as OM System claims.
CP button
The new CP button briefly mentioned above is perhaps the most practical development in the new release. CP stands for âComputational Photographyâ, which delivers ready-calculated image results in jpg format directly from the camera. The positioning next to the shutter release button now allows the various shooting programs to be selected and activated without having to take your hand off the grip. The theme of maximum mobility runs throughout.
The High Resolution mode, the ND filters, the HDR program and the multiple exposure can be controlled via the button. However, if you were hoping for the gradient filter, you will unfortunately be disappointed here - we would refer you to the OM-1 Mark II or the recently introduced OM-3. We link you to our video on the camera in the description of the video.
Other functions
We've mentioned it before: this camera system is designed for mobility and outdoor use. OM System itself calls it a "hiking camera", although it is actually suitable for anyone looking for a small, stylish camera.
The CP functions create finished images, for example HDRs, which no longer have to be compiled from individual images on the computer. This makes the workflow on the go and the luggage easier! The new Color Creator, which was first introduced as a feature in the OM 3, fits seamlessly into this philosophy. The function enables the adjustment of hue and color saturation directly in the camera for output as a jpg.
Night and star photography is another focus of the OM-5 II's technical features, now enhanced by the new Night Vision function. Here, the dark sky or foreground is brightened on the display so that the composition is more successful. In addition to the Starry Sky Autofocus and the Live Composite, another feature has been delivered here, which not only makes the quite demanding night sky photography easier, but also makes us want to travel to remote places and go through the nights.
Conclusion & Target group
After our brief overview of the new OM-5 II, we now come to a conclusion. OM System has not introduced any major innovations with the new camera, but has integrated useful, small upgrades that are appropriate for the OM-5's field of application and modern technology.
Who is this camera best suited to?
If you already own an older generation OM-5, we don't think you necessarily need to buy the new one, unless the grip and USB-C access are the deciding factors. After all, the performance has basically remained the same.
Nevertheless, the camera is great for anyone who always wants to have a robust and solid camera with them, likes the retro design and, above all, is looking for something smaller. We can imagine that ambitious photographers who enjoy being out and about in nature will have fun with this camera. Whether for hiking or road trips, for photographers or vloggers - the camera fits in any luggage thanks to its low weight and pack size.
With the 5-axis stabilization, the ND filters and the high resolution function, together with the weather protection, you can take the camera anywhere and great pictures are (almost) guaranteed.
