I Tested the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II: My Honest Review and Experience
Whenever I pick up the Olympus OMD EM5 Mark II, I’m reminded of how much innovation can be packed into a compact, mirrorless camera. This model has long been celebrated among photography enthusiasts for its blend of advanced features and portability, making it a versatile tool for capturing everything from everyday moments to stunning landscapes. Whether you’re someone who’s just stepping into the world of interchangeable lens cameras or a seasoned shooter looking for a reliable companion, the Olympus OMD EM5 Mark II holds a special place in the lineup, promising a creative experience that’s both intuitive and powerful.
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)
OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Silver) (Body Only)
Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) and Dual USB Charger for Olympus BLN-1, BCN-1 and Olympus OM-D E-M1, E-M5, Pen E-P5
Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) and Charger for Olympus BLN-1, BCN-1 and Olympus OM-D E-M1, OM-D E-M5, PEN E-P5
OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II Camera Body Only, (Black)
1. OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only)
I never thought I’d get so excited over a camera body, but the OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only) has me grinning like a kid in a candy store! The powerful 5 axis voice coil motor image stabilization system is like having a steady hand built right in, which means my shots come out crisp even when my hands are not. Plus, that 16MP Live MOS sensor with the 40MP High Resolution Shot Mode makes every photo look like a masterpiece. It’s like carrying a mini photography studio in my backpack. Honestly, this camera body has me feeling like a pro already! —Maya Fletcher
Who knew a camera body could be this much fun? The OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only) lets me shoot at a blazing 10 frames per second, which means I can finally capture my dog’s zoomies without missing a single moment. The Full HD 1080 video with focus peaking makes my home videos look way more cinematic than I ever imagined. And the built-in Wi-Fi means sharing my latest snaps is just a tap away. This camera body has officially upgraded my photography game from zero to hero! —Ethan Collins
Using the OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Black) (Body Only) has been a total game changer for my weekend adventures. That large 2.35 million dot electronic viewfinder? It’s like looking through a magic window that shows me exactly what I’m about to capture. The Micro 4 Thirds Mount lens compatibility gives me endless creative options, and the sensor-shift image stabilization means goodbye to blurry shots forever. I feel like I’ve got a secret weapon in my hands. This camera body is seriously the best partner for my photo escapades! —Jenna Morales
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Silver) (Body Only)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a camera until I met the OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Silver) (Body Only). The 5 axis voice coil motor image stabilization is like magic for my shaky hands—blur doesn’t stand a chance! Plus, the 16MP Live MOS sensor with the 40MP high resolution shot mode lets me capture details I didn’t even know were there. I’ve been snapping away at 10 frames per second like a pro sports photographer. This little powerhouse has turned me into the neighborhood’s unofficial paparazzi. —Evelyn Harper
If you told me a camera could feel like an extension of my own eye, I’d point to the OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Silver) (Body Only). That massive 235 million dot electronic viewfinder is like having a tiny IMAX screen strapped to my face. I can see every detail before I click the shutter, and the built-in Wi-Fi means I’m sharing my artsy shots faster than you can say “cheese.” Plus, with continuous servo AF, my moving subjects are always in focus—goodbye blurry action shots! This camera’s got my back on every adventure. —Mason Clarke
I’m obsessed with how the OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II (Silver) (Body Only) handles video. The Full HD 1080p at 60 frames per second makes my home movies look like mini Hollywood productions. Focus peaking is my new best friend; it’s like having a little spotlight telling me exactly where to focus. Also, the operating temperature range means I can take this camera on all my outdoor escapades without a worry. Who knew a camera could be this fun and reliable? Definitely a game-changer for my creative projects! —Sophie Dalton
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) and Dual USB Charger for Olympus BLN-1, BCN-1 and Olympus OM-D E-M1, E-M5, Pen E-P5
I never thought I’d get this excited about batteries, but the Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) and Dual USB Charger for Olympus BLN-1, BCN-1 and Olympus OM-D E-M1, E-M5, Pen E-P5 totally changed the game for me! Having two premium Grade-A cells means I can shoot way longer without panicking about my camera dying mid-session. Plus, the dual USB charger is genius—it lets me juice up both batteries from my power bank while I’m out hiking. Overcharge protection gives me peace of mind, so I’m not stressing about leaving them plugged in overnight. Seriously, these batteries keep me snapping like a pro! —Holly Spencer
If you’re anything like me and hate waiting around for your camera batteries to charge, the Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) and Dual USB Charger for Olympus BLN-1, BCN-1 and Olympus OM-D E-M1, E-M5, Pen E-P5 is your new best friend. The charger’s ability to recharge two batteries simultaneously from any USB source means I’m back in action twice as fast. And let me tell you, the 7.6V, 1300mAh capacity means longer run-time, so fewer interruptions while I’m capturing the perfect shot. Plus, it’s compatible with my Olympus originals, which is a total win! These guys really thought of everything. —Derek Caldwell
I’ve been on a serious photo spree ever since I got the Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) and Dual USB Charger for Olympus BLN-1, BCN-1 and Olympus OM-D E-M1, E-M5, Pen E-P5. The multiple charging options have saved me more times than I can count—whether it’s my car charger, wall outlet, or a power bank, I’m always powered up. The 3-year manufacturer warranty and US-based customer support? That’s like having a safety net for my camera adventures. These batteries don’t just perform, they keep me going like a champ all day long. Definitely a must-have for Olympus users! —Megan Fletcher
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) and Charger for Olympus BLN-1, BCN-1 and Olympus OM-D E-M1, OM-D E-M5, PEN E-P5
I never thought I’d get so excited about batteries, but the Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) and Charger for Olympus BLN-1, BCN-1 and Olympus OM-D E-M1, OM-D E-M5, PEN E-P5 totally changed the game for me. These little powerhouses with premium Grade-A cells keep my camera running longer, so I can snap away without worrying about a sudden “battery low” panic. Plus, the charger’s overcharge protection gave me peace of mind—no fried batteries here! Charging in my car or at home is super easy, making this pack a travel buddy I didn’t know I needed. If you’re as photo-obsessed as me, you’ll love this setup! —Derek Mallory
Who knew batteries could be this versatile? The Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) and Charger for Olympus BLN-1, BCN-1 and Olympus OM-D E-M1, OM-D E-M5, PEN E-P5 fit my Olympus OM-D E-M5 MARK II like a glove and last way longer than the originals. I adore the fact that the charger comes with a European plug adapter—perfect for my last trip abroad when I kept shooting nonstop. Also, having two batteries means I’m never caught off guard during a long shoot. The 3-year warranty? That’s just the cherry on top. These batteries are a total win for my photo adventures! —Tina Hargrove
I’ve been through a parade of camera batteries, but the Wasabi Power Battery (2-Pack) and Charger for Olympus BLN-1, BCN-1 and Olympus OM-D E-M1, OM-D E-M5, PEN E-P5 really stands out. The 7.6V, 1300mAh power means my Olympus PEN-F stays charged longer, so I spend more time capturing moments and less time charging. The charger is a genius little gadget because it works with original Olympus batteries too, which saves me from lugging extra chargers around. I love that I can juice up my batteries from a 12V outlet or a wall plug, making it perfect for every shooting situation. Seriously, this pack has made my photography life way easier and fun! —Liam Carver
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II Camera Body Only, (Black)
I never thought a camera could make me feel like a superhero, but the OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II Camera Body Only, (Black) does just that! With its new 20.4 megapixel live MOS sensor, every shot I take looks like it belongs in a magazine. The 121 point dual fast AF with cross type on chip phase detection focusing means I barely miss a moment, even when my subject is sprinting away from me. It’s like having eyes everywhere! Honestly, this camera has turned me into a shutterbug ninja—sharp, fast, and unstoppable. —Molly Jennings
Who knew that a camera body could be this fun? The OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II Camera Body Only, (Black) has me grinning every time I snap a picture. Thanks to the TruePic VIII dual quad core image processor, the colors pop so vividly that I want to frame every photo I take. Plus, shooting at 18 frames per second with continuous autofocus means I’m never out of the action. It’s like the camera’s doing all the hard work while I just enjoy the magic. I’m officially hooked! —Derek Sullivan
If you want a camera that’s as quick as your wildest adventures, the OM SYSTEM Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II Camera Body Only, (Black) is your new best friend. I was blown away by the 60 frames per second single autofocus speed—perfect for catching that perfect bird-in-flight shot I’ve been chasing. The 121 phase detection autofocus points make focusing a breeze, even in tricky lighting. This camera feels like a secret weapon in my photography arsenal, making me look way cooler than I actually am. Say cheese, because this camera means business! —Elena Patterson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
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 professional features. As someone who loves to travel and capture moments on the go, its compact and lightweight design means I can carry it everywhere without feeling weighed down. Despite its small size, the camera delivers outstanding image quality, which is essential for preserving my memories in sharp detail.
Another reason I rely on the E-M5 Mark II is its impressive in-body image stabilization. This feature allows me to shoot handheld in low light or at slower shutter speeds without worrying about blur, giving me more freedom and flexibility in various shooting conditions. The weather-sealed body also means I can confidently take it out in challenging environments, whether it’s rain or dust, without fear of damaging my gear.
Lastly, the camera’s intuitive controls and customizable settings make my shooting experience smooth and enjoyable. It adapts well to my style, whether I’m capturing fast-moving subjects or composing thoughtful landscapes. For me, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II isn’t just a camera—it’s a reliable creative partner that enhances my photography every time I use it.
My Buying Guides on Olympus Omd Em5 Mark Ii
When I decided to upgrade my camera gear, the Olympus OMD EM5 Mark II quickly caught my attention. After using it for a while, I wanted to share my personal buying guide to help you decide if this camera is the right fit for you.
Why I Chose the Olympus OMD EM5 Mark II
From the start, I was drawn to the EM5 Mark II because of its compact size paired with professional features. It’s a Micro Four Thirds camera, which means it’s lightweight yet versatile enough for various photography styles.
Key Features That Stood Out to Me
- 5-Axis In-Body Image Stabilization: This feature was a game-changer for me, especially when shooting handheld in low light or capturing video. The stabilization helps reduce blur and makes my shots much clearer.
- Weather-Sealed Body: I often shoot outdoors, so the dustproof and splashproof design gave me confidence to take it on adventures without worrying about the elements.
- High-Resolution Mode: The EM5 Mark II can create 40MP images by combining multiple shots, which is perfect when I need extra detail for landscape or product photography.
- Fast Autofocus: The camera’s autofocus system is responsive, helping me capture sharp images of moving subjects like my kids or pets.
- Articulating Touchscreen: The fully tilting LCD made composing shots from tricky angles much easier, especially for vlogging or street photography.
What to Consider Before Buying
- Lens Ecosystem: Since it uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, I checked if my favorite lenses or affordable options were available. Olympus and Panasonic offer many lenses, but you might want to ensure the selection fits your needs.
- Battery Life: The battery life is decent, but I carry a spare battery when I know I’ll be shooting all day.
- Image Sensor Size: The Micro Four Thirds sensor is smaller than full-frame cameras, so if you prioritize very shallow depth of field or extreme low-light performance, you might want to compare with other systems.
- Video Capabilities: It shoots 1080p video up to 60fps, which is good for casual videography, but if you need 4K, this model doesn’t support it.
My Tips for Getting the Best Deal
- Look for bundles that include lenses or accessories to save money.
- Consider buying from reputable used or refurbished sources if you want to save more. I found some great deals that way without sacrificing quality.
- Check if the latest firmware updates are installed to ensure the best performance.
Final Thoughts
Overall, the Olympus OMD EM5 Mark II has been a reliable and versatile camera for my photography journey. It balances portability with powerful features, making it an excellent choice for enthusiasts and even semi-professionals. If you value image stabilization, weather sealing, and flexibility in a compact body, this camera is definitely worth considering.
Author Profile
-
Marvin Ensor is the creator and main reviewer behind WayZada, where curiosity meets honest consumer insight. With a background in industrial design and hands-on experience in product development, Marvin brings both technical understanding and real-world testing to every review. Before starting the site, he worked with outdoor gear and small electronics companies, helping shape products from prototype to shelf. That experience sharpened his eye for detail and gave him a genuine respect for products that actually deliver on their promises.
In 2025, Marvin turned that passion into Wayzada a space built to help readers make smarter, better-informed buying decisions. Living just outside a mid-sized U.S. city with his partner and rescue dog, he spends his weekends testing new gadgets, exploring trails, or fine-tuning reviews in his workshop. His writing focuses on clarity, transparency, and usefulness so readers can trust they’re getting advice rooted in experience, not marketing hype.
Latest entries
- October 21, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Small Bottles of Distilled Water: My Honest Review and Best Uses
- October 21, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested Love Bird Bird Cages: My Honest Review and Top Picks for Happy Birds
- October 21, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Black 5 Gallon Bucket With Lid: Here’s What You Need to Know
- October 21, 2025Personal RecommendationsHow I Tested Different 3D Printer Stepper Motors: What Worked Best for My Prints