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Repair common Windows errors and clear accumulated junk for a smoother, more stable PC - no reinstall needed.Free scan · no reinstallFor most people, the OM SYSTEM PEN is the best Olympus-style camera to start with in 2026: it pairs a compact body and creative profiles with a 20MP Four Thirds sensor, in-body stabilization and 4K video. Choose the OM-1 Mark II for wildlife and action, the OM-5 Mark II for sealed travel, the OM-3 for retro styling and direct creative controls, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV for a lower-cost entry point, or the Tough TG-7 when waterproof ruggedness matters more than sensor size or interchangeable lenses.
“Olympus” is still a useful search term, but new cameras are sold under OM SYSTEM after Olympus Imaging’s business was transferred to OM Digital Solutions in 2021. The E-M10 Mark IV is an Olympus-branded model that remains in current buying guides; check availability and condition carefully. The current OM SYSTEM catalog includes the PEN, OM-3, OM-5 Mark II, OM-1 Mark II and TG-7 (OM SYSTEM camera and lens catalog).
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Which Olympus or OM SYSTEM camera fits your needs?
| Your priority | Best starting point | Why it fits |
|---|---|---|
| Everyday carry, beginner-friendly use and creative profiles | OM SYSTEM PEN | A compact, current interchangeable-lens camera with a viewfinder, stabilization and film-style profiles. |
| Wildlife, birds and fast action | OM-1 Mark II | Its stacked sensor, advanced subject detection and high burst rates make it the speed-focused flagship. |
| Hiking, travel and wet-weather photography | OM-5 Mark II | A relatively light interchangeable-lens body with weather protection and strong stabilization. |
| Retro styling and hands-on creative control | OM-3 | Its SLR-inspired design and dedicated Creative Dial put style and direct access to looks first. |
| A lower-cost interchangeable-lens starting point | Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV | An older Olympus-branded body with a viewfinder, stabilization and beginner-friendly handling; it is not weather sealed. |
| Water, impacts and cold in a pocketable camera | OM SYSTEM Tough TG-7 | A rugged compact with an integrated zoom and no need to change lenses, at the cost of a much smaller sensor. |
The PEN is the broad everyday recommendation, not a universal winner. The right choice depends on the conditions you shoot in, whether you need a sealed body, how fast your subjects move, and whether you want an interchangeable-lens system or a rugged compact.
What distinguishes the six cameras?
OM SYSTEM PEN: the best camera for most people
The PEN is the sensible starting point if you want a small current camera for everyday photography, travel and learning interchangeable-lens shooting. Amateur Photographer’s 2026 guide lists a 20MP Four Thirds Live MOS sensor, electronic viewfinder, vari-angle screen, 4K video at 30 frames per second, and stabilization rated up to 5.5 stops. Its listed burst rates range from 5 to 30 frames per second depending on the shooting mode. The guide also describes film-style profiles and an IPX1 weather rating (Amateur Photographer’s 2026 Olympus and OM SYSTEM camera guide).
#1 Best Overall
- Get Creative, with Superb Picture Quality: Let your imagination take the lead, with a higher resolution than your phone; built-in, easy-to-use LUMIX Photo Style feature lets you fine-tune your images with a variety of color effect options, no need for outside apps
- One Photo, Many Exposures: Create stunning light trails, star trails, or illuminated scenes without overexposing the background using Live View Composite Mode, which combines multiple exposures in real time
- Strong Support for an Aggressive Shooting Style: Your photos and videos will remain sharp even in challenging conditions, with a 5-stop 5-axis Dual I.S.2* system that ensures unrivalled stability
- Unlimited Video Performance: Reduce cases of overheating; shoot in with 4K 30p with no time limitation**, slow-motion (4x) or quick-motion (8x) in FHD; create cinematic content with 12-stops of V-Log L.
- Intuitive Design for Smooth Operation: LUMIX G97 makes it easy to frame and focus your shots accurately, even in bright conditions, with a 1,840k-dot free-angle LCD and 2,360k-dot OLED Live View Finder
Its appeal is the balance of portability and control, rather than class-leading speed or ruggedness. One practical detail: the PEN does not have a built-in flash. Confirm what a particular kit includes before buying, especially if you expect a flash or other accessories in the box.
OM-1 Mark II: best for wildlife and action
The OM-1 Mark II is the strongest fit here for birds, wildlife, sports and other fast-moving subjects. OM Digital Solutions lists burst rates up to 50 frames per second with autofocus and exposure tracking, or up to 120 frames per second with focus and exposure locked. The 2026 guide lists 4K video at 60 frames per second and stabilization up to 8.5 stops with compatible Sync IS lenses. That maximum is setup-dependent: the manufacturer’s release specifies the lens and CIPA test conditions behind its claim (OM Digital Solutions’ OM-1 Mark II specifications).
The manufacturer also specifies IP53-class dust and splash protection, 50MP handheld and 80MP tripod high-resolution capture modes, and a body-only weight of about 511g. Those computational high-resolution modes do not change the sensor’s native resolution, which remains about 20MP. The Mark II update is incremental for some owners of the original OM-1, so it is most compelling when its specific speed, handling or features answer a real need.
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Pick it when fast shooting, subject detection, outdoor protection and advanced computational features justify a flagship body. If you want a smaller, more style-led camera instead, the OM-3 is the closer alternative.
Rank #2
- 20 MP Live MOS Sensor
- Always-on connection and background connection via Bluetooth & OI Share Smartphone app
- Flip-down monitor and dedicated selfie mode. Selfie mode automatically turns on when monitor is flipped down.
- In-Body 5-Axis Image Stabilization capable of 4.5 shutter speed steps of compensation.
- 16 Art Filters (31 types). Includes new Instant Film for a nostalgic feel
OM-5 Mark II: best for travel and hiking
The OM-5 Mark II is an interchangeable-lens option for travel, hiking and outdoor photography when you want weather protection without the flagship body. OM Digital Solutions’ 2025 North American release gives its dimensions as approximately 125.3 × 85.2 × 52.0mm and its weight as about 418g with battery and memory card. Paired with the M.Zuiko 12–45mm F4 PRO lens, the stated kit weight is about 672g (OM Digital Solutions’ OM-5 Mark II announcement).
The same release specifies stabilization of 6.5 stops at the center of the frame for body-only use, or up to 7.5 stops at the center with a compatible Sync IS lens. At the frame corner, the corresponding figures are 5.5 and 6.5 stops. These are manufacturer figures with stated setups, not a guarantee of the same result with every lens or shooting technique. The 2026 guide lists IP53 sealing, 20MP resolution, 4K video at 30 frames per second and a 2.36-million-dot viewfinder; it also notes a single card slot and 8-bit video. The slot may matter to event photographers who need in-camera backup, while 8-bit recording is a constraint for video-first workflows.
OM-3: best for retro styling and creative controls
Choose the OM-3 if the camera’s look and direct creative interface are part of the experience you want. Digital Camera World describes its SLR-inspired styling, modeled on the original Olympus OM-3, and a Creative Dial that gives quick access to film-style profiles. The camera also has IP53 sealing and imaging features drawn from the OM-1 Mark II line, including 80MP pixel-shift shooting (Digital Camera World’s OM-3 review).
Its native resolution is 20.4MP, and it has one card slot. That makes the OM-3 a better match for a photographer prioritizing stills, style and hands-on control than for paid event work where a second card slot for backup matters. Choose the OM-1 Mark II instead if flagship handling and high-speed action are more important than the retro body.
Rank #3
- Feature-Packed Camera: Why trust your memories to a phone? With exceptional performance and versatility, the LUMIX G100 captures life in crystal-clear 4K photo, 4K 24p 30p video, and advanced audio
- Grows as Your Skills Grow: iA (intelligent auto) mode gives the perfect shot every time, or use manual modes as your skills sharpen; Micro Four Thirds system is compatible with all LUMIX lenses for any adventure; 12-32mm lens included
- Use as a Webcam: Easily connect the G100 to your computer so that your web calls, livestreams, interviews, and media all look crisp, bright, and professional
- Shoot, Transfer, Edit, Share: Features guide you at every step—frame marker for social media aspect ratios; facial recognition; blur-free dual image stabilization and V-Log L recording. Upload to smartphone seamlessly
- Advanced 360-Degree Sound: High-performance microphone with tracking audio auto-adjusts to record clearly inside or outside, in crowds, one-on-ones, nature, and more; lightweight camera for one-handed recording
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV: best budget Olympus-branded option
The E-M10 Mark IV remains an entry-level Olympus-branded choice for someone who wants a viewfinder, in-body stabilization and access to Micro Four Thirds lenses. Amateur Photographer’s 2026 guide lists a 20MP sensor, stabilization up to 4.5 stops, 4K video at 30 frames per second, and a tilting touchscreen. Its burst rate is listed as up to 15 frames per second with focus fixed, or 6.3 frames per second with continuous autofocus. Digital Camera World highlights its beginner-friendly handling and notes that it lacks weather sealing and a microphone port (Digital Camera World’s E-M10 Mark IV review).
Because this is an older model, check the seller’s current availability, warranty, condition and whether the listing is for the body alone or a kit. Its presence in buying guides does not establish live stock or current value. For regular wet-weather use, choose a sealed body instead.
OM SYSTEM Tough TG-7: best for rugged waterproof use
The TG-7 is a rugged compact, not a smaller interchangeable-lens camera. Amateur Photographer’s 2026 guide lists waterproofing to 15m, shock resistance to 2.1m and operation in temperatures down to −10°C. It has a 12MP 1/2.3-inch sensor and a built-in 4× optical zoom covering a 25–100mm-equivalent range (Amateur Photographer’s 2026 camera guide).
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That integrated lens and rugged construction make it convenient around water, in cold conditions or when changing lenses is impractical. The small sensor limits image quality compared with the interchangeable-lens bodies, and you cannot switch lenses for different subjects. Optional accessories include an underwater housing and lens converters.
Rank #4
- Feature-Packed Camera: Why trust your memories to a phone? With exceptional performance and versatility, the LUMIX G100 captures life in crystal-clear 4K photo, 4K 24p 30p video, and advanced audio
- Grows as Your Skills Grow: iA (intelligent auto) mode gives the perfect shot every time, or use manual modes as your skills sharpen; Micro Four Thirds system is compatible with all LUMIX lenses for any adventure; 12-32mm lens included
- Use as a Webcam: Easily connect the G100 to your computer so that your web calls, livestreams, interviews, and media all look crisp, bright, and professional
- Shoot, Transfer, Edit, Share: Features guide you at every step—frame marker for social media aspect ratios; facial recognition; blur-free dual image stabilization and V-Log L recording. Upload to smartphone seamlessly
- Advanced 360-Degree Sound: High-performance microphone with tracking audio auto-adjusts to record clearly inside or outside, in crowds, one-on-ones, nature, and more; lightweight camera for one-handed recording
How to choose between the closest alternatives
Everyday camera: PEN or OM-3?
Choose the PEN for the broader everyday role: it is the 2026 guide’s pick for most people and combines a viewfinder, a vari-angle screen and creative profiles. Choose the OM-3 when the SLR-inspired body and dedicated Creative Dial are central to your enjoyment of photography. The OM-3’s single card slot is also worth weighing if you shoot paid events where backup is important.
Wildlife camera: OM-1 Mark II or OM-3?
Both draw on high-end imaging features, but the OM-1 Mark II is the clearer action choice because its defining strengths are tracking and speed, alongside flagship outdoor handling. The OM-3 favors a retro form and direct creative controls. Do not choose by burst-rate headline alone: consider whether you need tracking autofocus at high speed, and whether the one-slot design fits your work.
Travel camera: OM-5 Mark II or PEN?
For hiking or uncertain weather, the OM-5 Mark II’s stated sealing and compact kit options make it the more outdoor-oriented choice. The 418g figure is for the body with battery and card; the 672g figure includes the specified 12–45mm F4 PRO lens. The PEN is the everyday-oriented alternative with film-style profiles and a vari-angle screen. Compare complete kits, not body weights alone, because the lens changes the system’s total carry weight.
Beginner budget: E-M10 Mark IV or PEN?
The E-M10 Mark IV offers an older Olympus-branded entry point, but it lacks weather sealing. The PEN is the more current choice and has a stronger creative-profile emphasis. Since actual E-M10 Mark IV stock and condition vary, compare a specific listing’s warranty and included lens rather than assuming that its age guarantees a lower price.
Best Value
- THE ICONIC GH5, NOW WITH LIVE STREAMING: Attention hybrid content creators—the GH5M2 supports both wired and wireless unlimited live streaming for indoors and outdoors, together with a USB Power Delivery feature.
- VIDEO FORMAT OPTIONS FOR PROFESSIONAL USE: The GH5M2 is capable of unlimited video recording in various settings including C4K/4K 60p 4:2:0 10-bit and simultaneous output over HDMI during 4K 60p internal recording.
- PHOTO STYLE PRESETS MINIMIZE YOUR EDITING: Presets include V-LogL, Cinelike D2/ V2, MonochromeS and L.ClassicNeo.
- POWERFUL IMAGE STABILIZATION: Advanced I.S. to 6.5-stop slower shutter speeds for stable handheld shooting. Double SD Memory Card slot for relay recording.
- WITHSTANDS HEAVY FIELD USE: The magnesium alloy full die-cast front / rear frame and is not only splash and dust resistant, but also freezeproof down to -10 °C (14°F).
Events and video: what should you check?
If you need in-camera backup, check card-slot count before buying: the OM-3 and OM-5 Mark II have single-slot arrangements in the cited guides. If you record video professionally, factor in the OM-5 Mark II’s reported 8-bit limitation and assess the exact recording formats you need. These cameras’ strengths are not identical, so maximum frame rate alone is not a complete measure of video suitability.
What does the Micro Four Thirds system add?
The PEN, OM-1 Mark II, OM-5 Mark II and OM-3 are interchangeable-lens cameras in the Micro Four Thirds system. That gives you room to build a compact setup around a prime or standard zoom, or to add specialized glass for macro and wildlife. OM SYSTEM’s catalog includes lenses such as the 12–45mm F4 PRO, 8–25mm F4 PRO, 90mm F3.5 Macro IS PRO and 150–400mm F4.5 TC1.25X IS PRO (OM SYSTEM camera and lens catalog).
A longer or specialized lens can increase both cost and carry weight, so decide on the lens as well as the body. Confirm mount and camera compatibility on the exact product listing before purchasing. The TG-7, by contrast, has its lens built in and does not join this interchangeable-lens system.
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Quick Recap
What to verify before buying
- Region and stock: lineup, availability, kits, warranty coverage and seller terms can differ by country and change over time.
- Total kit weight: weigh the body and lens combination you will actually carry, rather than comparing body-only figures.
- Weather protection: check the specific body’s rating and use a suitable lens; a non-sealed body such as the E-M10 Mark IV is a poor choice for regular wet-weather shooting.
- Slot and video needs: check card-slot count and recording requirements if you shoot events or prioritize video production.
- Used or older listings: for the E-M10 Mark IV, confirm condition, included accessories and warranty before judging value.
Product prices and availability are accurate as of the date/time indicated and are subject to change. Any price and availability information displayed on Amazon at the time of purchase will apply.
