OM System OM-5 Mark II Review: The Best Compact Travel Camera?

Handling and the Mark II changes

The body felt comfortable in my hands, and I liked the new Sand Beige finish. The Mark II adds a redesigned grip, USB-C charging, updated menus, and a dedicated computational photography button.

Its IP53 weather resistance is useful outdoors when paired with a suitable sealed lens. Keep the ports closed and check the conditions in OM System’s specifications. Weather resistance is not a reason to submerge a camera.

The photos are the main attraction

The roughly 20MP Micro Four Thirds sensor gave me detailed JPEGs that I liked straight from the camera. RAW is also available when I want more control in editing.

For travel photos, I care about the whole kit as much as the sensor. A smaller lens and body are easier to bring along. A larger sensor still has advantages when low light or very shallow depth of field is the priority.

The computational tools I would try

The dedicated CP button makes the camera’s computational modes easier to reach. They are useful when I want to try a different kind of image without adding much equipment.

• High Res Shot combines several exposures for more detail. Keep the camera and subject stable enough for the selected mode.
• Live ND simulates a longer exposure effect for moving water or similar subjects.
• Focus Stacking combines focus positions for more depth of field with a compatible lens.
• Multiple Exposure combines images in the camera.
• Pro Capture buffers frames before the shutter is fully pressed, which can help with unpredictable action.

Video and stabilization

The video options include 4K up to 30p, Cinema 4K at 24p, and Full HD slow motion. OM-Log400 and the newer OM-Cinema profiles offer different starting points for editing or a finished look.

Stabilization was the feature that impressed me most in the original review. I liked how steady handheld footage looked, even with a lens that had no optical stabilization.

I would still look at the actual clips before choosing it for a particular type of movement. Battery, card space, and recording conditions remain relevant during a long take.

How it compares with my full frame kit

I compared the OM-5 Mark II with a 17mm f/1.8 lens against my Sony A7S III and 35mm f/1.8. The framing was similar, and the OM kit was much easier to pack.

The OM System M.Zuiko Digital 17mm f/1.8 II is the current linked version. Check which generation you want when comparing prices.

The two f/1.8 lenses do not give the same depth of field at matched framing. The useful comparison here is how much camera I need to carry for the pictures I want.

For a small general travel zoom, compare the M.Zuiko 12-45mm f/4 PRO. A small prime can make the kit even simpler if one focal length suits your trip.

Who I would recommend it to

I would consider the OM-5 Mark II for hikes, travel, and everyday photography when carrying less gear is a priority. The stabilization and creative photo modes make it more interesting to use than its size suggests.

If you already own an OM-5, compare the handling, charging, and menu changes with what your current camera does. The Mark II keeps much of the same core shooting capability.

Compare the OM-5 Mark II options and check whether a 12-45mm f/4 PRO lens is included in the package before buying it separately.