Olympus E-PL5 Mirrorless Digital Camera Review: Specs, Pros and Cons
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This olympus e pl5 mirrorless digital camera review focuses on the Olympus E-PL5 with 14-42mm Lens. It pairs a 16MP Live MOS Sensor with the TruePic VI Image Processor for clear images. You get a 3.0" Flip Self Portrait Touch LCD Screen for easy framing. The system supports 17 M.Zuiko Digital Lenses. It records Full 1080i HD Video. The body measures 4.37 x 2.52 x 1.5 inches and weighs 11.5 ounces. This compact design fits in small bags while offering solid creative tools for everyday photography.
What stands out
- 16MP Live MOS Sensor with TruePic VI processor
- 3.0" Flip Self Portrait Touch LCD Screen
- Full 1080i HD Video recording capability
- Compatibility with 17 M.Zuiko Digital Lenses
- 12 Creative Art Filters and Touch Live Guide
Who it fits
Good fit for
This camera suits beginners who want creative control without complexity. The flip screen helps vloggers and self-portrait shooters. If you enjoy artistic effects, the 12 Creative Art Filters let you preview changes via the Touch Live Guide. The 14-42mm lens provides a versatile range for travel and daily use. Its lightweight body makes it ideal for users who prioritize portability and ease of use over heavy professional gear.
Who should skip it
Skip this model if you need advanced video features. It records 1080i HD, which may feel outdated compared to modern 4K options. The sensor resolution is 16MP, so high-resolution printing or heavy cropping might limit you. If you require Bluetooth connectivity or a weather-sealed body, this listing does not mention those features. Serious videographers or those needing extensive wireless controls should look elsewhere.
Verdict: The Olympus E-PL5 with 14-42mm Lens offers a solid entry into mirrorless photography with its flip screen and creative filters. It is a practical choice for casual shooters who value portability and artistic expression.
Key specs explained
16 MP Sensor Resolution
This resolution captures 16 million pixels per image. You get detailed photos suitable for standard prints and digital sharing. It balances file size with clarity. When shopping, compare this to higher megapixel counts for large format needs or lower counts for speed. This level is practical for most everyday photography tasks.
TruePic VI Image Processor
This processor handles the data from the sensor. It improves image quality and reduces noise in low light. You benefit from faster processing times and better color accuracy. Compare this to older processor generations for speed differences. It ensures your images look sharp and natural without excessive digital artifacts.
Full 1080i HD Video Resolution
This spec indicates interlaced video recording at 1080p resolution. You can capture high-definition video clips. The interlaced format may affect smooth motion playback on some displays. Compare this to progressive scan options for smoother video. It is sufficient for casual video recording and social media sharing.
14-42mm Included Lens
This lens covers a standard focal range. You get versatility for everyday shots without changing glass. It is compact and lightweight for travel. Compare this to kit lenses in other systems for similar versatility. It serves as a reliable starting point for beginners learning composition and exposure.
Design and build details
According to the listing, the Olympus E-PL5 measures 4.37 inches in length, 2.52 inches in height, and 1.5 inches in width. These dimensions define a compact body that fits easily into small bags or pockets. The camera weighs 11.5 ounces. This weight is light enough for extended handheld shooting without causing fatigue. You can choose from black, white, or silver finishes. The listed color for this specific model is black. The finish provides a standard look that blends with most accessories.
The design includes a 3.0-inch flip self-portrait touch LCD screen. This screen flips out to face forward, allowing you to frame shots while looking at the display. It supports touch controls for navigating menus and selecting focus points. The layout prioritizes ease of use for casual photographers. You get a Touch Live Guide System that lets you preview effects as you adjust settings. This feature simplifies creative adjustments without needing to check the final result immediately.
The camera is compatible with 17 Olympus M.Zuiko Digital Lenses. This mount system offers flexibility for expanding your kit. The included 14-42mm lens provides a versatile range for everyday shooting. The combination of a compact body and a standard zoom lens makes this setup suitable for travel and daily carry. You get a balance of portability and functionality. The physical controls are designed for quick access to common settings. This approach keeps the shooting experience straightforward.
Setup and everyday use guide
Setting up the Olympus E-PL5 with 14-42mm Lens begins with attaching the included lens to the camera body. The system is compatible with 17 Olympus M.Zuiko Digital Lenses, giving you flexibility to swap glass as your needs change. This lens mount standard ensures you can build a kit that fits your specific shooting style without searching for third-party adapters.
The camera features a 3.0" Flip Self Portrait Touch LCD Screen. You can adjust the angle of this display to frame shots from high or low angles, or to check your composition when shooting selfies. The touch interface allows you to navigate menus and select focus points directly on the screen. This reduces the need to look through a viewfinder for every shot.
For daily shooting, the Touch Live Guide System lets you preview creative effects as you adjust settings. You can choose from 12 Creative Art Filters and 7 Art Filter Effects. This means you see the result of your changes in real time before taking the picture. The TruePic VI Image Processor handles these calculations quickly.
Video recording is set to Full 1080i HD. You can apply Art Filter Movie effects during recording. This allows for stylized video content without post-production software. The 16MP Live MOS Sensor captures the base image data. The combination of the flip screen, touch controls, and live preview filters makes this camera straightforward for users who want immediate visual feedback while shooting.
Before You Buy This Camera
Before you buy, consider what else you need. The kit includes a 14-42mm lens. You may want additional M.Zuiko lenses later. Check compatibility with the 17 supported options. The flip screen helps with self-portraits. Keep the sensor clean. Dust affects image quality. Store the camera in a dry place. Use a lens cap when not shooting. The 1080i video is good for basic clips. It lacks advanced stabilization in some modes. Compare this to other 1 mirrorless cameras. This model suits beginners. It offers creative art filters. You get a touch live guide. The TruePic VI processor handles images well. Battery life may vary. Carry an extra battery if you shoot all day. The compact size is easy to carry. Check if you need a larger grip. The black finish shows fingerprints. Clean it often. This camera fits casual users. It is not for heavy professional work.
Check before you buy
- Check if you need more than the 14-42mm lens.
- Verify compatibility with desired M.Zuiko lenses.
- Ensure you have extra batteries for long shoots.
- Confirm the flip screen meets your framing needs.
- Decide if 1080i video is sufficient for your projects.
The product at a glance
Olympus E-PL5 with 14-42mm Lens
Best for: beginners seeking creative filters and portability
- Sensor Resolution
- 16 MP
- Video Resolution
- Full 1080i HD
- Image Processor
- TruePic VI
- Included Lens
- 14-42mm Lens
- Color
- Black
- Dimensions
- 4.37 × 1.5 × 2.52 inches
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The Olympus E-PL5 is a compact mirrorless camera featuring a 16MP Live MOS sensor and TruePic VI processor. It captures Full 1080i HD video and includes a 3.0-inch flip touch LCD screen for self-portraits. You get access to 12 Creative Art Filters and the Touch Live Guide system. This model comes with a 14-42mm lens. It suits beginners who want creative control and a lightweight body for travel.
Pros
- 16MP Live MOS Sensor for detailed images
- 3.0-inch Flip Self Portrait Touch LCD Screen
- 12 Creative Art Filters for creative effects
- Full 1080i HD Video recording capability
- Touch Live Guide System for real-time preview
Cons
- Video resolution is limited to 1080i rather than 1080p
- No 4K video recording support
- Sensor is 16MP, which is lower than many modern competitors
Good fit if
- You want a lightweight camera for travel
- You enjoy experimenting with creative art filters
- You need a flip screen for self-portraits
Skip if
- You require 4K video resolution
- You prefer a higher megapixel count for large prints
- You need 1080p progressive scan video
Verdict: Olympus E-PL5 with 14-42mm Lens is a solid entry-level mirrorless camera for users who value creative filters and a flip screen. It fits beginners who prioritize portability and artistic video effects over high-resolution video specs.
Specifications side by side
| Spec | Olympus E-PL5 with 14-42mm Lens |
|---|---|
| Sensor Resolution | 16 MP |
| Video Resolution | Full 1080i HD |
| Image Processor | TruePic VI |
| Included Lens | 14-42mm Lens |
| Color | Black |
| Dimensions | 4.37 × 1.5 × 2.52 inches |
| Weight | 11.5 ounces |
| Model | V205041BU000 |
Frequently asked questions
Is the Olympus E-PL5 good for beginners?
Yes, it is a solid entry-level mirrorless camera. It features a 16MP Live MOS Sensor and TruePic VI Image Processor for clear images. The included 14-42mm lens makes it easy to start shooting. You also get creative filters and a flip screen, which help beginners learn composition and self-portraiture without complexity.
What lens comes with the Olympus E-PL5 kit?
The kit includes a 14-42mm lens. This standard zoom covers wide to short telephoto angles, suitable for everyday photography. You can swap it for any of the 17 compatible M.Zuiko Digital Lenses later. This flexibility allows you to upgrade your glass as your skills and needs grow over time.
How portable is the Olympus E-PL5?
It is highly portable due to its compact size and light weight. The body measures 4.37 inches in length, 2.52 inches in height, and 1.5 inches in width. Weighing only 11.5 ounces, it fits easily into small bags or pockets, making it convenient for travel or casual carry throughout the day.
Does the Olympus E-PL5 have a flip screen?
Yes, it features a 3.0-inch Flip Self Portrait Touch LCD Screen. This articulating display allows you to frame shots from various angles, including high or low perspectives. It is particularly useful for self-portraits and vlogging, letting you see yourself clearly while recording video or taking photos.
Can you change lenses on the Olympus E-PL5?
Yes, the system is compatible with 17 Olympus M.Zuiko Digital Lenses. You can detach the included 14-42mm lens and attach other compatible optics. This interchangeability lets you tailor your setup for specific needs, such as macro, portrait, or landscape photography, without needing a completely different camera body.
What is the sensor resolution of the Olympus E-PL5?
It has a 16MP Live MOS Sensor. This resolution captures 16 million pixels per image, providing detailed photos suitable for standard prints and digital sharing. It balances file size with clarity, ensuring images are sharp enough for most uses without requiring excessive storage space on your memory card.