DPReview TV: Olympus OM-D E-M5 III - worth the wait? 

I know there are APS-C sensors that are bigger, but I cannot shake my love of Olympus images - their color science, the fun of the camera bodies, the size and portability.

I honestly think the environment’s subdue color in this video is very beautiful. Or maybe Jordan’s color grading skills are really great.

It's kinda telling that after all these new releases coming out, Jordan still shoots with the GH5. If he can do this with a MFT camera that's released in 2017, what excuses do I have :(

Loved the colours! The world doesn't always have to look like a TV commercial.

I freaking love you two... Y'all are gold...

I was waiting for this review. Thanks for doing this. :) I was hoping for more from Olympus, but I'm still happy that M43 is still alive.

Great review. I shoot on a GH5 (amongst others) but recommended an EM5ii last year to a beginner because I knew it would suit their food photography needs. I feel though in this modern market that Olympus and Panasonic have to be more realistic about their pricing and actually need faster product rollout cycles. I was looking forward to seeing this camera but after 4 years there's no way I could recommend it now in relation to the competition. I hate that they've made it cheaper feeling too.

1/7th of an Noct!!! Oh boy, you guys weren’t joking!!!

This really makes me appreciate the spectacular Fall color we have right now in New England!

As always a well balanced review. Thank you for that. I suppose like many of the manufacturers they have to make distinctions between models. Overall there is enough here to attract EM-5 MKII owners to consider upgrading. I have the EM-1 MKII and am replacing my PEN-F with the EM-5 MKIII as my “Everyday carry everywhere “ camera. This will give me at least 90% of the M1 MKII features in that ultra lightweight small form factor. I could put this camera and my 5 primes into a very small shoulder bag and not notice any weight or bulk at all!

I really want to use Olympus for video. I love the image straight out of camera. Maybe it's finally worth picking one up.

I'm an Aussie and I used to live in Edmonton...Love your videos!!

Nice video, camera, and the stills taken with this thing are GREAT.

Thanks for the great review. 🙏

Thank you DP, review for your honest and fulfilling review. Well done in everyway, Bravo!!

My god, you've finally got your mojo back. Thumbs up for educating, informing and entertaining. Thank you. Going to finally subscribe to DPReview.

This camera does not have great technological advances and in fact, it comes a couple of years late, but it brings together a series of features that other brands have forgotten to implement or have done so halfway. Canon: 24p, variable display (M6MII), viewfinder (separate, really?) 4k with full sensor and autofocus, IBIS, sealed. Sony: Variable and fully touch screen, IBIS (6400 does not have), price (6600 is more expensive), sealed Fuji: Variable screen, IBIS, up to 29 min of recording (XT30 is limited to 15 in 1080 and 10 in 4K), sealed (XT30 is not). On paper it is the most balanced camera on the market, it would be necessary to see what the reviews are like and if people lose the fovia to small sensors. I would buy it

Cool, Watching here from Calgary. You really helped me nail down the right Camera. Moving from the Sony A6000 to the EM-5 MKiii. Have an awesome Day

I’m a longterm olympus user and was like you hoping for something special seeing as we’ve waited so long, I think we should have had this camera a couple of years ago as all the tech is handed down from the E-M1 MK2, I also agree that you can buy from Amazon an E-M1 MK2 for the same money and yes its bigger and heavier and if you watch reviews from Olympus visionary’s that’s all they bang on about, I’m also glad you found it plasticky and would trade the 55grams for a metal body as i thought i was on my own with that opinion and have mentioned on other reviews had it had a full metal body my order would have been in on the release day but now I will have to wait and see what happens with the new E-M1 MK3 and hope to god that they don’t downgrade the body on that. Nice video I love the humour, keep up the good work.

This is the 1st Olympus camera I've found attractive in years. I value compactness, low weight and am willing to forgo w a few features from the full sized models. It's 160g lighter than EM1ii, 240g vs G9. This model is a win for me.

Great review. Sums up how let down I feel about this camera after 4 years of waiting.

Fun to watch as always. Describing the different Olympus models and their names when comparing features is confusing as hell (even when I'm familiar with their product line up).

Really enjoying the new Jordan Noir thematic explorations.

I am impressed by this camera because it ticks so many boxes. But yes it hasn't got anything new, that is a shame. What I like about it is that it takes us back to the roots of M43, to a compact camera that is powerful.

Great review. I wanted to buy the camera but now, after this video I ordered the EM1 Mark II

Thumbs up for the Noct measurement unit.

Great quick review Chris. I would have hoped you would have touched on more of the cameras features and lack of. No big deal.

The video segment of the Em5ii has beautiful colors and highlight rollof!

Beautifully shot Jordan

A nice review. To me this looks to have been upgraded in the same way as the EM10 v3. I think the EM1.2 and G9 offer better value, unless you want the small size factor

"That's an Ikea!!" YOU guys seriously do the best job of education and entertainment.

I agree with you on all points - However I have one on order as a second camera to the Em 1 mark 2 - But I think feel that the Mark 3 due next year will be my ideal last camera I will ever buy.

The best review on this camera so far. Well done guys.

This camera and the EM1 mark II make Olympus very attractive for a mix of photo and solo video work like I do. Right now I use two M50 bodies and a M5, so Olympus stabilization plus solid 4k would be very appealing. It's too bad they didn't go with the battery in the EM1 mark II. The M5 mark III's initial price does feel a bit much but that's usually how camera companies do things. Another negative right now is that the 12-100mm is their only general zoom with IS that gives the extra stabilization. I really wish they make something at 9 or 10mm with IS that is compact (either a shorter zoom or primes).

I encourage viewers to head over to London Camera Exchange to watch their review of this camera. They put this camera to a more comprehensive test and thorough review geared greater toward adventure minded people like myself, which to me, is who this camera is for. Just go look at what they did with this camera in a pitch dark cave with head lamps. Their stills are more pleasing too, unless you like autumn leaves. But they do lack the dad jokes and Jordan's always exquisite video based commentary to be fair.

I feel the same about the plastic body. Too sad. Loved the feeling of solid metal.

Glad you mentioned about the plastic body. Robin Wong was making out it was an upgrade and was extremely offended when I said it was a shame it is made of a cheap material.

"That's an IKEA!" xD

Its odd, I remember last your you guys shot some nice fall colors. And here its still mostly green, while I also shot some nice fall images last week of October last year. Odd nature. I love the look the Oly cams have. But so plastic. I wish we finally would get some higher mpx on 4/3rd. As a Fullframe shooter, I really find them hard to deal with in dynamic range, flare, noise. I loved my lx1002 and my G85, but so limited in post.

The best new feature of this camera is that is automatically makes the mkII cheaper.

I do wish the price was a bit more competitive, but theres nothing that competes with it that (regardless of sensor size) is as compact, has IBIS, a flip out screen, and has phase detect AF. Maybe the EOS m50 or 90D? Wait...no IBIS on those. The real question is: $1000 secondhand EM1-Mk ii or brand new $1200 EM5-Mk iii ?

these two guys are funny, i enjoy their banter and small personal clips. "Thats a IKEA" haha

I wish it wasn't so plasticky, but I still have every intention of buying it. An Olympus with a 20mp sensor in a smaller body is exactly what I want. I just wish the EM10 had the new sensor.

That's why I upgraded EM5 MkII to EM1 MkII instead of EM5 MkIII. The 3.1 firmware upgrade plus two cards and no need for a grip with the EM1 MkII.

i waited for you , for very long !!!!

I think if a company is going to go "el cheapo" with the build quality/materials then this needs to be reflected in the price, which it is not here!

in the past I have had an Olympus PEN EE half frame, an OM10 and OM1 film cameras but not really attracted to the current lines. Would buy a full frame with a more solid build if they did one. (I think that your outfit is very stylish Chris)

The 5MkIII is... well, an E-M1 MkII in a smaller body. I use an E-M5 MkII, and the MkIII does add some things I wanted improved (C-AF sucks on the MkII, especially in video)... but as far as what went into the MkIII... it could have come out a year or two ago.

thanks for the footage, i have zeroed-in on this camera due to IBIS, had bought sony a6400 but it was so so so bad that had to sold that...which lens would you recommend for this one..i am a travel vlogger, so sometime we speak to camera while walking, mostly try to capture cinematic scenes and low light performance will be also helpful, any recommendation?? Thanks in advance

200th like here! Anyways, great video. Sorry to hear Alberta is freezing; I was out in a T-shirt today here in Toronto. ;) I'm a fan of the way the EM5 series looks; I can get away with some stealthy street photography and hide the camera in my coat pocket when needed. It's almost a fashion accessory. The PDAF is something I'm keen on, as is the rock solid IBIS, but otherwise it feels like it brings not a whole lot. I'm indifferent to weight; though the size matters to me. MFT has few advantages over full-frame so I feel like it needs to exploit what benefits it does have.

EM1 mark II for me is the best value, after you have itemized its features side by side. Kind of a turn off having a plastic base plate? Did I hear that right?

Good detailed review 👍

How do you fare this camera against the Fuji xt 3?? As I wish to upgrade but I'm at a crossroads in my decision making.. Like the silver colour on both so retro looking. I don't need video recording just a camera that'll take amazing photographs..

I had the G9 but didn't like the grip, AF wobble, colors and sometimes that adobe ACR processed RAW shadow color with a purple tint. On the omd em1 ii I liked the colors, grip and AF but I wish it had a dedicated ISO button, OLED viewfinder and handheld high-res...I'm guessing that'll be the omd em1 iii.

This camera does feel like a step-down from its predecessors in some more weird ways aside from the obvious plasticiness (yes I just made up that word). No more flash-sync port, loss of customizable buttons around shutter/front dial, and the new grip (ECG-5) is no longer compatible with HLD-6P, nor does the grip feature the headphone jack seen on HLD-8G for E-M5 II. It seems Olympus wants to make the 5 line into a smooth transition between the 1 and 10 lines. This does streamline the overall product catalog, but omitted some quirky (and welcomed) characteristics that makes the 5 line unique.

Using a pro lens makes it similar in size (and price) to a full frame from, say, Sony. If size was not an issue, would you pick m4/3 or ff? m43 will get you longer zoom but ff gets you a bigger sensor and (my guess) a better low light performance, maybe a better dynamic range if you can use it. I'm still using APS-C camera from Sony and wanted to go either the smaller camera route (m43) or larger camera because they have better zoom lens selection compared to my non-stabilized A6000 (can't do a handheld shot at 1/10th of a second without getting blurred picture, and using a short shutter with high iso results in a crapton of noise). Maybe I should just stick to smartphones, I'm not a pro and pictures are for family album only...

Hey, does anyone know if the preamps on the em5 mkiii are any good? That was a huge issue with my em5 mkii. Super hissy preamps. I always had to use an external recorder (not so compared to the G85 which had great preamps , but terrible autofocus) I really don't mind the plastic, especially with the better image quality and autofocus upgrade. I'd pull the trigger if someone can vouch for the audio.

I love Olympus I love the results but I always feel I want to upgrade and I’m frustrated why as if your happy with the results ( right ! )

Well...it is nothing groundbreaking but like our friend Gordon has pointed out: it is the best vlogging cam out there. Also: the usual weaknesses Oly had are gone. There is no weakness, unlike Panasonic (DFD anyone?). And while I use EM1.2 I would call myself a very clear Panasonic fan. Finally: I do not think canabilising on Em1X sales was a reason, it is I think a clear indication hwat Em1.3 will have next spring....

Hmmm.. Those images of the leaves were great! As for the camera, if it wasn't overpriced, I would buy it in a heartbeat.

Finally someone that points at the downsides of this camera after the deluge of hype from those invited at the events... My same feelings

m5 mark iii record video from entire matrix or central part?

Does the HLD-8 grip work on the Olympus EM5 Mk III. Every time I ask this question on the Olympus website the question gets deleted. Thanks.

"I am soary." Lol. Love the Canadian accent.

It is states the video was shot on a GH5, but what were the studio close-ups of the Olympus shot with?

I was kinda hoping for a camera that brought the EM5.ii up to speed, but it seems that Olympus have moved the M5 into the M10 territory, its dumbed down the EM5 and Im soooooo disappointed, yes its got some tricks from the M1.ii but then, they had to do something for it! it sounds like they've gone 'Plastic; with a massive P, I think Ill be sticking with the M5.ii , lets see what they bring out next year!

finally it’s coming!

Even thou there are so many new releases, nothing is compelling about them. Even the z50 touches all requirements, people still gonna go with Canon m50 released last year. I think price matters the most. And Canon m50 does the job well!

Still got the em5 original. Great cam.

I don't have an issue with plastic if it's used in the right places. I agree it doesn't "feel" as nice but when used correctly it can be a great way to save weight. That being said, the camera should cost less than it does. I'm an EM5Mkii owner and if I were to upgrade I would get an Em-1Mkii.

Thanks for telling us about the outer shell of new camera, especially the plastic "prism". How depressing. 8:45 Well, which Olympus "42.5mm lens" enabled sync-IS in your setup?

What should I get if I have an E-M5 MK II but I want faster autofocus?

Plastic? Did they borrow some design cues from the Yashica Y35? Video colors are on point though.

I bought this little camera for travel only, now I use it every day. My beloved D750 full frame is collecting dust.

I love that crying Jordan running gag... always makes me happy. I wonder what that says about me...

Go Flames! Go Oilers! I like Alberta! Woods look similar to those in Wisconsin. Nice deer too! You are not a EM5iii fanboy, it seems.lol! Comparing to the EM1X is not fair, imo.

Micro is very specialized system if we speaking about prfessional and enthusiast photography. It's awesome for macro, maybe for street photo and landscapes, if you some only-instagram-portfolio photographer and don't need big prints... But you need spend a tons of money on this 1.2 lenses if you want some real light capturing capabilities. On aps-c you can get slightly more amount of light with sigma 1.4 C trio for price of one Olympus or PanaLeica lens, and on FF you get even one stop more light with 1.8 lenses.

I remember back when I was weighing the pros and cons between an E-M1 and E-M5ii, going over the features and trying to figure out which was better for me. I eventually went with the M1 but I still think the M5ii would've been better. It wouldn't be much of a debate now. There is no compelling reason to buy the E-M5iii over the E-M1ii. Better yet, with the impending release of the E-M1iii, the prices of the E-M1ii may drop even further and make it an even more compelling purchase.

I'm happy that M43 is still alive.

I think this just removed the FOMO I had for this camera thanks guys, I'll probably stick with the trusty EM5 mII

Does phase-detection AF work on Lumix lenses?

I've been looking at this camera and the fugi xs10. I like olympus but I'm leaning towards the fugi. The kit lense for the om5iii is a 12-45 f4. To get this body with a 12-40 f2.8 is $2,000!. Even with the better lense I'm not sure the overall performance would match the XS10. What are your thoughts between these two?

This will be great for vlogging, it just needs a reasonably large price drop and I'm in!

nice review

I have the Oly PEN EPL-5. How awesome is that?

Interesting video. Thanks Chris and Jordan. Always a pleasure to watch. 👏😉

E M1 Mark 2 is selling for $799 new and E M5 Mark 3 is selling for $1199 USD in Hong Kong so is pay extra $400 worth for E-M5 III over E-M1 II ?

I miss living in Calgary. Great review as always. I think the second hand EM1ii is a better buy...

The only reviewers who aren’t kissing Olympus butt right now . You guys are awesome. Would this be a great RU-vid creator camera ?

Here's hoping the E-M1 II gets 120 fps via firmware update. It has the same processor as the E-M5 III, so we know the camera CAN do it.

You guys are a bit harsh on this camera. I think it's a nice offering because all of the other brands leave out or mess up some feature and ask you to compromise, while this has a side flippy screen, phase detect AF, uncropped 4K, IBIS, a small size, weather sealing, and a wide range of quality lenses! For the enthusiast the only missing "feature" (which by far isn't standard in competitors), is a headphone jack. This camera seems to tick more boxes than others in it's class.

Though I no longer shoot Olympus, I appreciate them as a company and am a fan of the m4/3 format. That said, have they lost their minds? For the same money you can buy the beautifully crafted PEN-F. For $300 more, you can get the proven EM-1 MKII. Sure, you get a higher resolution sensor (which I wouldn’t particularly want in m4/3) and PDAF, but it seems like a parts bin camera and a huge step backwards in terms of build quality. Anyone wanting a smaller Olympus body would be better served with the current EM-5 or the EM-10. I hope this isn’t a trend...

You were great on Mythbusters

I had a lot of reservations when I preordered this camera and this review compelled me to cancel my preorder. Come on Olympus, release a PEN-F II that has metal. I don’t care about 50 grams.

I was looking at the EMD5 Miii as the B cam for my EMD1 Mii. As you suggested, the EMD5miii has the guts. Of the 1 Mii. Since this camera sells for more than the 1Mii I’ll simply buy another 1Mii. That seems like a simple solution. Thank you for the review. Mask On Nurse Marty (Ret)

The G9 has seen substantial discounts. I can get one for £875 in the UK brand new. I've seen it for even less than this. The Olympus is £1099. That's quite a difference, considering the G9 beats it in almost every regard.

Hi, I have recently purchased Lumix G7 it's a great camera but I cannot see 1080 - 60fps I can only see the option 1080 - 50fps Please help me, since you have used G7 for quite a long time, I can really use your opinion

I still shoot on an om-20, it’s disappointing the bodies aren’t metal anymore, but they still look gorgeous I suppose.

Only in Calgary you can casually walk into dear or moose around the town. And hares, they are everywhere!

I was waiting for this one - for me dumbing down the previously excellent build quality its a huge disappointment, I'll end up switching system, sadly.