OM System OM-5 Was Underwhelming, Here's Why!

[@Bakin]

Robin; to make this video, you don't need to have tested the OM5 as you already own the EM-5 Mark III.

[@robinwong]

This comment made so much sense, it deserves a pin!

[@Bakin]

Thanks; no sour grapes on that!

[@davebellamy4867]

😂😅🤣

[@davebellamy4867]

Yes and I think he has the EM1 Mark iii as well, so that has all the new features of the OM5! Pretty much.

[@graciaman]

100% this. I am going to buy an OM-1 because it’s the final Olympus-branded camera, Olympus is the reason I love photography, and I am a collector. But I think if OM Systems continues down this path that will be the last OM System camera I buy. I can’t believe they didn’t even put the OM-1 sensor in it.

[@stevewhitehead766]

I bought an OM5 10 months ago, never shot Olympus before, so what came before it is irrelevant to me tbh, I use the camera how it is now and to me it is perfectly fine. Don't let this review put you off buying an OM5 because of what it doesn't have and what someone thinks it should have had. It is a very capable piece of kit.

[@user-lb4bd1go9o]

I agree. OM5 is excellent. I have it too. OM5 users seem perfectly happy. People who haven't actually tried it seem to criticise it. Stacks of useful features in a small body including unlimited video and S-Log, love the handling. My Menu and Custom button functions are helpful. Enjoying my images with the 12-45mm f4 Pro lens. 'Everyone go out and take more photos' as Robin would say:)

[@frankhu8692]

@@user-lb4bd1go9oyou are talking about this because you are not a em5 markiii user or a old olympus user, i have to admit the live nd, handheld hi res, and the handling with such size, om5 or em5 mark iii are the only offering on the market, however, the reason why olymous are not getting its deserverd market share / exposure is due to small improvements/ repeating using old parts, and as a previous olympus ambassador and a major supporter of m43 system, Robin pointed out these issues. A micro usb in 2022 new camera? Try to understand why Robin is so disapointed and why olympus have to sell their camera department, i love the camrea as well, especially coming from fuji system and after using so many full frame bodies, there is nothing so powerl, so well-handling, with so many intersting features, in such a small beautiful body reminiscent of the film camera om-1, but you have to admitt in 2022 or 2023 om system truly need to work hard to attract more customers

[@JuanManuelTastzian]

3:44 He literally said at the beginning "This is not a review". Why would anyone make a purchase decision based on this video? He's talking about the specs and the underwhelming improvements versus the previous version. He never said it was bad, given that the previous version was excellent, it's only natural that you're enjoying this one. Previous version is relevant in this context because if it's similar, you might as well get the previous version for 30% less or so, and get an extra lens that will make more of a difference in your shooting than actually putting the money on the "small upgrade" this represents.

[@jimmywest1]

Yeah! I share your opinion here as I come from another system. The OM-5 seem disappointing by people already using the OM-system cameras. For me, weirdly enough going from a FF A7II to the OM-5, I just love photography again.

[@extrajava9175]

the OM5 is a great camera. But that's because the EM5.III is a great camera. I'd say save a few hundred and get the previous model

[@mattisulanto]

Thanks bro. You said it so well and I agree with you 100%. You also have some valuable insights because of your time with Olympus.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Matti, appreciate that!

[@mc256]

You should say a word to Peter Forsgård... 😄😅

[@MoarenaZ]

¡Gracias!

[@robinwong]

Thanks so much!

[@jodeverill]

I'm not disappointed: it's a decent upgrade to a great camera. It's normal for successive generations of tech to be iterative rather than transformational. In its marketing OMDS is playing to the strengths of the OM System: lightweight, ergonomic, robust, weatherproof. It makes sense for OMDS to use older tech in entry level models. Apple does exactly the same with its SE phones. They don't have USB-C either.

[@robinwong]

The problem here is, the OM-5 is 99% the same with E-M5 Mark III. It is as if they just slapped a new logo onto the camera, with some minor tweaks. It does not justify the price increase, and it also does not justify succeeding the older E-M5 Mark III.

[@jodeverill]

@@robinwong But it has a more powerful processor, faster face recognition, an extra stop of IBIS, HHHR, Live ND, unlimited recording, webcam tethering, OM-Log... Surely that's more than 1% of the camera. Are they really minor tweaks? It's not a generational shift, but doesn't it make more sense to introduce smaller changes more frequently, than wait years and years for a major update?

[@sop1193]

Hi Robin, thank you for your videos. I bought an OM5 a month ago and I am very happy with it. It is my first Om system (Olympus) camera so I can't compare it with any previous version. I am an hobby photographer and it is the perfect camera for me; it is small and light and the f4 pro lenses are great, light and affordable.... The fact that this camera is not a real improvement to the EM5iii doesn't bother me as I don't own EM5iii.

[@frankhu8692]

because you are not a em5 markiii user or an old olympus user, i have to admit the live nd, handheld hi res, and the handling with such size, om5 or em5 mark iii are the only offering on the market, however, the reason why olymous are not getting its deserverd market share / exposure is due to small improvements/ repeating using old parts, who doesn't like better screen and better evf? How many old olympus system user or new customer still feel refreshing buying a new camera with a 6-8 years old sensor? As a previous olympus ambassador and a major supporter of m43 system, Robin pointed out these issues. A micro usb in 2022 new camera? Try to understand why Robin is so disappointed and why olympus have to sell their camera department, i love the camrea as well, especially coming from fuji system and after using so many full frame bodies, there is nothing so powerl, so well-handling, with so many intersting features, in such a small beautiful body reminiscent of the film camera om-1, but you have to admitt in 2022 or 2023 om system truly need to work hard to attract more customers

[@Brianatthefarm]

The thing that I like about Olympus and M43 is that I can have a longer zoom and a wide prime for low light in a very small travel package. And at a nice price compared to FF.

Well said, OM5 is a big disappointment to me also and I’m still waiting for proper successor of EM5m3. I own OM1m1 and EM10m3 but would happily switch both to one real OM5.

[@robinwong]

Thanks for the show of support, appreciate much!

[@davidcompton4885]

I am underwhelmed also. I was expecting a little sibling to the OM 1, what we get is a little sibling to the EM 1 Mk III. It appears OMDS has taken the processor from the EM 1 Mk III and put it into the EM 5 Mk III body and that’s it. It makes me wonder about the long term survival of the company.

[@Sabundy]

I am very skeptical about this spun off business surviving. They just don't have the sales volume of Canon, nor the cache of Sony. And it's a shrinking market they are competing in. What exactly is their strategy? 🤷🤷🤷

[@davebellamy4867]

@@Sabundy Major economic problems have begun, so a lot of secondary companies are for the dumpster as the consumer gets screwed.

[@lionelartige9738]

OMDS wants to make money. In a shrinking market, it is better to sell OM1 than OM5 cameras. So, the strategy is to make Robin buy an OM1 instead of an OM5.

[@richardwalker4518]

@@lionelartige9738 Valid point, but I think there was plenty of room in there to make a better OM-5 release without cannibalising the OM-1. I'm on board with Robin's 'it doesn't make sense' thesis

[@michalhor2736]

The most accurate description of the OM system situation is: "garage sale" What is left of Olympus is monetized. This is a requiem

[@davebellamy4867]

28:02 What about the 40-150mm f2.8 Pro versus the Panasonic 35-100mm f/2.8 for events? Stage etc. I had 75mm as the longest lens for a concert recently. 75mm was stellar but I needed a longer lens for the venue size. I would like a prime around 135mm to 150mm. The 35-100mm f/2.8 isn't much longer than the 75mm and is less than half the weight of the Olympus 40-150mm f2.8. Though the latter sounds like a great lens. By the way, I found the 12-40mm f/2.8 great for the gig too, especially in combination with the 75mm f/1.8. The 40-150mm f2.8 is heavier than my old 180mm f/2.8 Zuiko from the 1990s, which was too heavy for me to use for my tastes. I'd much rather have a nice prime lens at 135mm or so, that doesn't weigh a lot. Maybe I will just get an old secondhand Olympus film camera lens like the 135mm f/2.8 or f/3.5. The latter is very compact. Someone should be making a 135mm f/2.8 or maybe a slighly faster f/2.5 for MFT. After all, Laowa has at the wide angle end 7.5, 9 and 10mm lenses!

[@sacheie1]

Just this week, I upgraded from the E-M5ii to this. I agree that if I'd had the mk3, the OM-5 would be a meagre, skippable upgrade. But many people probably came from the earlier M-5 models. Phase-based autofocus was big for me, and HHHR shot was a gamechanger for my Oly 12mm and 17mm lenses. I think professionals forget that lugging a tripod around is a huge annoyance for amateur photographers - let alone flying with one! And for my birding, the marginal upgrade to 20MP has been helpful. Sensor seems better too, which matters a lot because my lens is the slow, budget 75-300 f/6.7. A better tele lens would cost as much as the OM-5 and would be useful only for wildlife, whereas the new body improves all my photography.

[@maZec31]

I have also EM-5 mark III. The best of this camera is that is small powerfull, amazing bracketing options, good image quality, fast autofocus... I love that camera.. only much much better sensor and much better chip in OM-5 will change my mind right now :)

[@robinwong]

I love my E-M5 Mark III too

[@davebellamy4867]

I just got the EM5 Mark iii and despite the slightly more plastic feel, the main controls feel superb and the shutter sound is classy and really quiet. Much quieter than my EM10 Mark iis.

[@rodmehta5356]

The problem for OM System is that by releasing this "new" and not really improved camera they have reaffirmed the doubt and the stagnation of MFT in general and their business system in particular. Whoever wants to upgrade on a nice looking and feeling small camera system will be looking towards Fuji or Leica. Releasing a new, upmarket Pen F with EM1-3 specs would have been more interesting. To me at least. Cheers Robin :-)

[@robinwong]

Thanks for sharing your thoughts Ron, and yes, we do want to see some progress!

[@donaldmiller7098]

I bought an E-M5MkIII two weeks before the OM-5 was revealed. It was on sale so I took a chance the new version wouldn't be so spectacular I'd regret not spending the extra money. Up until the actual release, the rumors were that along with massive improvements ported from the OM-1 the price would increase by several hundred dollars. I'm glad I took the chance. Nothing in this new camera makes me regret my purchase of the older model. If the E-M5MkIII hadn't been on sale I wouldn't have minded paying full price for the OM-5; it's a great camera - just not "WOW" great.

[@telebruce221]

Thank you Robin for this. I have the OM-5. I came from the Panasonic G9 which I still like, but the OM-5 fits a niche for me. I am 70, and I needed a smaller lighter feature rich camera body to take on 2 to 5 day long backpacking trips. Yep. I load up 2-5 days worth of gear and hike to take photos. The G9 worked fine, but I wanted smaller/lighter and the OM-5 is perfect for me. NO complaints, Yes it could have the improvements you noted, but I can see myself using this one for a long time.

[@davidbrohede]

Robin, I totally agree, and I appreciate your sincere voice regarding their failure in listening to customers and delivering progress. I still use the E-M1 Mk2, and love it. I also want the M43 system to survive and thrive! Keep up the good work! Love from Sweden

[@keithwilkinson8310]

I agree with nearly all your comments Robin, except one: video features. The OM5 has portrait mode video (which I hate) but is likely to be what lots of users want.

[@scottparis6355]

Yes. portrait mode video comes from cellphone users who don't know, or care, what they're doing.

[@keithwilkinson8310]

@@scottparis6355 Yes, portrait mode is now very common because of mobile phones. I guess people who are used to it will be annoyed if their camera does not allow it. Hence OMDS are sensible in providing it.

[@martinwiedmann8584]

You are right. For me the OM-5 is a firmware update with a weather sealing feature for the E-M5 iii . I had the E-M5 iii but replaced it with the E-M1 iii. I could not be happier and still use the E-M 10 ii as a backup

[@davebellamy4867]

How do you like the EM10 Mark ii? It's drop dead gorgeous. When I saw it in the shop in 2017, I was actually shocked by how lovely that camera looked and felt. Terrible for continuous autofocus video but everything else I really liked. I just got the EM5 mark iii today. EM10 ii definitely feels nicer but the EM5 iii seems really neat as a camera, especially if well disounted and with a 2½ year warranty.

[@willidevegt8831]

Good day Mister Wong I never used an Olympus but I am thinking about switching from Nikon to Olympus I agree with much what you say. About the plastic build personally I dont see a problem in that and honestly it would be positive for me because it means lower weight which is 1 of the reasons I want to switch. I do agree with what you say about micro USB but also this is very minor to me ad I would not charge the battery in the camera and I wouldn't transfer the photos that way. For me personally I would not even care if they left out any usb on camera. Also I think they know how to do all the upgrades you would want to have but then it would naybe interfere with the sales of the OM-1 Or in other words it sounds like you wish for an OM-1 in the body of an OM-5. But yeah the the menu should be the same across all cameras that was a mistake not sure if they could ever change this with an firmware update About the video capabilities isn't the OM-1 better for video ? Isn't it that most camera manufacturers make different cameras for different users ? Sony A7S for video vs A7m4 for photography or Fuji H2S for video vs H2 for photography? So maybe if you want to shoot Olympus and your goal is to do more video maybe you should go for OM-1 An other thing important to look at is the price which I understand is the same as the older version where as other camera manufacturers often ask a couple of hundred duit / dollar/ euro / ringgit more for the newer models About your wish for 4k60 video could it be a cooling problem in the small camera size ? Or do you like what Fuji has done adding a separate cooler on the back ? Also not nice is it ? I also have a question you say if people ask you what camera to buy you tell them em5m3 or em1m2 Why you mention these 2 cameras what makes you choose an em1m2 over the em1m3 or om-1 ? Which of the Olympus cameras if money was not a subject? Which camera and why ? Thanks

[@JimNicholls]

Thank you for that, Robin. I'm still using E-M5 Mk ll, mainly for video, and would like to upgrade. I've held off on the Mk lll, as it is now quite old, but would definitely have been interested in the OM-5 if it offered any real improvements. However, it's clearly not worth a premium over its predecessor, so I'm glad that you have pointed this out.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Jim. I really wish OM Digital Solutions had listened to their customers, and put in more effort to have more upgrades!

[@JimNicholls]

@@robinwong Yes, I can't see the sales of this one being what they probably expect, and that's bad for the future of the company and for us, the Olympus fans.

[@WOLFTICKVIDEOS]

I actually own two of the E-M5 ll and love the way they look and feel. Not sure I will ever replace them if this is the future of the 5 series.

[@leungyuenkwan]

I'm still using EM5 MK II as well, as you know, though it's quite old already, it's a really really good camera for someone like me who isn't that professional or require certain professional equipment. I've been looking for getting the OM-5 for the first day since the rumor was out. But after watching a few vidoes, I would rather wait for the next "5 series" or go strict for a OM-1. OM5 would be definitely better than my EM5 MK II, but this could not persuade me for buying an old wine in a new bottle.

[@JimNicholls]

@@leungyuenkwan I totally agree. I think they made a big mistake with this one, as Robin points out.

[@timbaugh1944]

It looks like more of a branding exercise - moving away from Olympus to the OM brand rather than launching a new camera. I'll stick with my Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III for now. I suspect we will see an OM3 next. Good video Robin.

[@robinwong]

If that is the case, then the branding exercise failed. The camera was not getting many positive reviews

[@michaelshoup2703]

The fact that you are shooting with one hand holding the Oly, AND, the other holding your action camera, (Who's filming me @ 36:15) speaks VOLUMES with regard to Olympus image stabilization!! Simply amazing!! And your images are tack sharp.. Try doing that with a Full Framer.. LOL...

[@robinwong]

Yeah I cannot survive without the 5-Axis IS

[@christinecoughlan4699]

Thank you for the TRUTH Robin .👌🏼👍🏼

[@robinwong]

Thanks Christine, being truthful is very important to me

[@petermcginty3636]

Thanks Robin, I appreciate your work. I don't t expect the OM5 to be a OM1A, but I do understand why you are underwhelmed. I am not a photographer, I take photos as a hobby. Maybe they kept the same body to allow the accessories to fit (unlike Apple & Samsung phones). A menu system is just a menu, a camera is for taking photos. Auto focus could be better, I agree. ND filters are helpful in harsh light. Handheld 50meg Hi-res photos are nice, astro photography with Starry AF is pretty cool, using computational photography to take photos of lighting will always be a family favourite. I think this would be a great camera for a hobbyist who does not own an EM5 iii.

[@robfj3414]

Great video as always, Robin. And certainly an honest appraisal of a fairly lacklustre launch. I certainly agree that the upgrades are incremental in this first 5 series model from OM Systems but only if one already has the EM5 MkIII. I presently have the PEN-F, EM5 MkIII and EM1MkIII bodies, all with the same sensor so I see no reason to upgrade at this point. Realistically, you don’t buy a new car every new model year. There’s no point. There would rarely be enough changes to make that a prudent expenditure. Same for smartphones. There’s rarely a need to upgrade every single time a new model comes out. Why expect something different in a camera company? This isn’t enough of an upgrade to make me jump on it but, in about 2-3 years, who knows what will happen? Meanwhile, I’ll spend my camera money on more glass instead!📷📷📷😉

[@sushvee1475]

Thank you for your commentary on the OM5. Spot-on! I want this format to succeed so the glaring missteps in this release are very disappointing.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Sush. I wish they listened more to the customers

[@peternumber19]

At first I thought this was disappointing but now it's sinking in that this gets another OM camera on the street and it has a lighter body, upgraded electronics and some function changes. So if you're thinking of buying a new camera or replacing a 16mp it pushes it a bit higher and it's not expensivem, I've seen quite a decent deal with a 12-45 f4. Upgrading by one update is rarely a must have so I'll keep my EM5 Mk3 and wait for the next update. The lighter body is a good step in the right direction for me and tweaking the sockets as well could have been a step too far for the company at this stage with the Christmas market coming up.

[@ShakurTheAshier]

Thank you for making this video. it takes a lot of integrity to be this honest. This is absolutely shameful. Sad to see.

[@davebellamy4867]

29:52 What about the Pentax Auto 110? A 110 film camera. It wzs tiny! I remember it from the 1980s.

[@Meriweather50]

Big fan of your work Robin! Couldn't agree more about the USB connection and menus. My thinking is that this camera is aimed at new buyers (if they exist) into the 4/3 systems. You make an excellent argument about the futility of the OM-5 as an upgrade for users of the earlier versions.

[@robinwong]

yeah the OM-5 feels like E-M5 Mark III with a new logo

[@michaeld5888]

@@robinwong It is just that and the continuation in production of a fine camera and long may it continue. Weatherproofed and with leading edge stabilisation. This endless carping about upgrades all the time does get rather annoying and seems more geared to the gadget updating addict as opposed to anyone interested in photography. If people think the EM5 III is fine I would think just keep using it but Olympus and the glory days have gone for good. We should just be extremely thankful the brand has manged to continue.

[@pacostiro]

Totally agree with you, Robin. Looking for an upgrade since several years, I skipped OM-5III and I was planning to buy an OM-5, but now I believe I will wait for the next model.

[@10tacleboy83]

I'm disappointed too about the OM5. 100% agreement with your opinion.

[@robinwong]

Thanks

[@Bakin]

Thanks Robin: I agree with your thoughts here. I am very happy with the performance of my EM-5 Mark III. I would expect though that the performance of the OM5 with the upgraded Truepic IX processor should significantly improve the Autofocus and Focus Tracking over the previous EM-5 Mark III camera with the Truepic VIII processor. Lastly why did not simply add a head phone jack as needed by vloggers? Any thoughts?

[@robinwong]

Yeah the OM-5 could have been the perfect vlogging camera with 4K 60, 10 bit video, headphone monitoring jack and improved video AF

[@basiltiffani8850]

I agree. And I'm one of those people who want metal bodies. It's not that I think plastic isn't durable, although tripod plates on plastic bodies make me nervous, I mostly prefer metal just because of the feel. It feels like a "real" camera. 700 US is max I'd spend a plastic camera. That's less than half the cost of the om5.

[@robinwong]

They just need to listen to the customers a bit more. I hope they learn from this mistake.

[@nicobandi3280]

Hi and Thanks Robin. Your discussions are always so fascinating.

[@jonwalker3299]

Thank you for this video. I was so excited this morning when I heard of the new OM5. I thought it would be a great backup for my OM1….BUT….then I read the specs (after viewing all of the OMD beautiful videos). I could not understand why no USB C??? The deal breaker for me was the new OM5 had the OLD menu system. No way No way. So, tonight I am very disappointed but glad you said what you said. Please keep up the good work of educating us. I appreciate your heart felt opinions

[@robinwong]

Thanks Jon. If I were to invest in OM-1, it is either i get another OM-1 or a smaller body as a back up, so OM-5 would be the right choice, but the different menu system and Micro USB are two very wrong moves. It would be easier to have a more uniform workflow!

[@jonwalker3299]

@@robinwong I completely agree and that is why I will not be buying the new OM5

[@patrickhopkinson1851]

The OM5 seems to be most of an EM1 mk3 in a smaller and lighter package, like the EM5 mk3 was most of the EM1 mk2 in a smaller and lighter package. I love the EM1 Mk3 and I’d imagine that the OM5 will be even more fun to use. Starry Sky AF, ND filters, hand held hi-res etc will make it great for travel with some light weight lenses. I have no problems with the resolution, ISO performance, pro capture abilities etc on the EM5 mk3…and hopefully the OM1 will be at least the same. I hope it will also have the same viewfinder as the EM5 mk3 rather than the one in the EM1 mk3, which doesn’t work with polarised sunglasses. I don’t quite understand all the negativity. It’s only a camera.

[@Localtraveler2376]

That's the point of his video. OM systems is following the same plan as Olympus which put them out of business. OM Systems needs to change things up by following a different plan. I think that people are upset because these cameras will not be around for long unless OM Systems can make a bigger splash than this. They could have but the higher mega-pixel sensor in it and gotten a lot more positive reviews.

[@TheNarrowbandChannel]

I am really missing the Olympus name on the pentaprism hump. :.( Seams like this camera will get the same reaction and will probably sell as well as the Em5.3 did which is ok but not going to grow the company.

[@JensMHA]

I wouldn't be surprised if there is a 3rd party solution to that, rather soon...

[@robinwong]

E-M5 is an important series for the company, bringing in both volume and profit. I wish they have listened more to customer feedback and not repeat their mistakes

[@TheNarrowbandChannel]

@@JensMHA Ya if someone sold a top plate with an instructional video that had the Olympus name I would buy it.

[@thomaskehl69]

thank you Robin, great video, hit the point. one thing to mention is the availabilty of new products. i was waiting too long to get hand on a OM-1 or even a 100-400mm. so finally i went to buy a Lumix S5 with nearly same features, but full frame

[@robinwong]

Oh dear, so sorry to hear that, availability is an issue!

[@keithvlogs1]

Robin.... You hit the nail on the head. I really can't imagine them having that much sales at $1.2k at the minute when the em5 mk 3 is 95% the camera for half the price. ONE thing I am looking forward though is the - 1: Auto ISO in Manual movie mode. 2: Clean screen, I mean the "anoying overlays" dont light up when you change shutter speed. It absolutely buggers the crap out of me. I dont need these settings pop up with every shutter speed change. 3. I can't confirm this yet. But HOPEFULY the blimming (Focal length info) is gone for good. No way to remove it, its just there on the efing screen. As if were bloody noobs and we dont know what focal length we've put on the camera.

[@SunePedersen88]

I agree with you. What they released yesterday was a $700 product.

[@davebellamy4867]

It's also a brand and model naming issue. OM5 is basically the first new OM named camera since the OM3 and OM4 in 1984. The new OM1 was a repeat of an old name of their first SLR from 1972.

[@robinwong]

I can forgive the naming, if the product is actually good!

[@davebellamy4867]

@@robinwong 👍 True. "What's in a name?" In a way I meant that they should have put more effort into the first new OM name since 1984. ... Still, I hstgot an EM5 mk 3 new for under 700 bucks and I like it. Apart from the menus, which are like the EM10 ii but even more complicated!

[@mmbrombe8153]

Robin, really appreciate your honesty here. Your credibility has increased exponentially when compared to the sad brand ambassadors who are twisting themselves in knots trying to defend the pathetic release of the OM-5. Good job.

[@johnsmith-gs4qf]

The specs are mostly the same as my olympus omd em 1 mark ii. While I love my camera, this camera is from 5-6 years ago. I would expect the newer OM-5 to have newer specs for a brand new camera. I agree with Robin that using old micro usb in brand new camera is a bad idea!

[@robinwong]

Thanks JOhn, and I still use and love my E-M1 Mark II

[@krishnavandewalle9459]

I really wanted the OM-5 to be something great. I’m shooting Full frame on my Canon R6, but I’m missing the portability of the MFT system so I was looking for a moment to get a backup and go back to the system I started shooting with. What a real shame. I’m guessing they were trying to keep the price down by reusing a lot of things from the E-M5 mk iii. But they’re not doing themselves any favours by completely copy pasting the same exact camera and only swapping the innards (people love seeing differences). I love your energy Robin.

[@Marty4650]

Robin asks "What is the point of the OM-5? Why not continue selling the EM5 III instead?" I can think of a few good reasons for OM System to create this new camera.... 1. It was very easy to do. As you say... "it is pretty much a minor upgrade of an existing camera.": 2. It really is a better camera than the camera it replaces. Even if the improvements are small. At the exact same price. 3. It extends the life of the 5 series, without having to further discount a three year old model

[@gigihanmandarin]

13:05 "To me, it is quite disappointing" - with a big smile on your face. Robin being Robin ;D

[@MarcLa1010]

I bought a Olympus EM-5 III e few months ago for 1 200.00$ Canadians dollars. I won't pay 1 600.00 $ Canadiens dollars for a OM-5. I Have lot of fun with my gear. Thank Robin for what you do. You do a great job.

[@hamtairo]

I just felt em5 mark ii is the best value of all em5 series as long you dont use it for continuous af or low lights photography. The size with 17/25mm lens is perfect for daily use👍🏻

[@gabithemagyar]

I agree. It's a great travel, street, and daily camera. I love its look, feel, and ergonomics. If the OM5 features would be in the EM5 mark ii metal body I would snap it up. As it is I will wait to see if perhaps there will be a reissue of the PEN F.

[@huislaw]

I also brought it to Jomblang wet cave and splashed by sea water at Timang Beach😆. With a splash proof 12-40mm.

[@kevinbourke4038]

I agree, I had an EM5 mk2, sold it, 6 months ago, am sorry I did that. The EM5 mk3 feels flimsey by comparison. The EM5 mk2 felt solid & looked great too.

[@RachelAllcock]

I'm disappointed, but on reflection shouldn't be surprised. The E-M5 Mk iii was basically an E-M1 Mk ii in a small body i.e. one model behind the then flagship, so I guess it makes a kind of sense for its successor to be an E-M1 Mk iii in a small body. Trouble is, from E-M1 Mk ii to E-M1 Mk iii was only a minor increment, which makes the OM5 similarly underwhelming. I guess the bottom line is that given I love my E-M5 Mk iii, for an upgrade I want a 90% OM1 in a smaller case, not an E-M1 iii. I Wouldn't even mind paying a price somewhere inbetween for it. But whilst the OM5 is no doubt a fine camera, it's not the one I want to upgrade to.

[@claudiodaloia3458]

I agree with you. I am an Olympus lover, but different brands are doing very well. Fuji for example

[@xmeda]

OM5 seems to be more like as if the rights to use Olympus label are now gone and they had to keep production of EM-5III. So they did quick check, some light update and they re-launched is as OM-5. I expect some more significant update in 5 line in 2-3 years future. Not now. And maybe even named OM-3 and raise it a bit higher in spec.

[@Sabundy]

Just ignore the people complaining about you pointing out how and why Olympus's camera business failed. You made a lot of very good and valid points about why it happened. Some people are just in denial. For heaven's sake if their camera business had been making money they never would have sold it. But by Olympus's own admission they wanted to sell it before it's value went down even more.

[@robinwong]

Thanks so much for the show of support, appreciate that so much. Yeah, it was because they did not do well that they had to be carved out into a new company. Olympus basically gave up on the imaging division.

[@cjk1943]

I agree with you about the camera thank you for your comments about the new camera

[@robinwong]

Thanks Calvin

[@wickie4801]

Yes Robin, I agree fully with you. In my opinion this "new" camera lacks much evolution. No really n e w sensor. It is the same body. No improvements on features. Back to past instead of getting future. Disappointment!!! 📸👀😭

[@TheNaught1]

Totally agree, Robin, and I really appreciate your passion. OM-5 looks to me like cost-cutting - the goal was to share the image proc with the flagship, in order to reduce the procurement challenge of the processor, and spread the cost to another model. Shame about the menu system being unchanged. There is no excuse for that hell-hole. Speaking of holes, looks like the tripod thread is still polycarbonate, which is inexcusable in a $1k+ camera that could see a lot of tripod action.

[@robinwong]

They really do need to listen to customers more

[@dareneiri]

The tripod thread not being upgraded really is such a disappointment.

[@TresoBox]

This issue occurred with my OM-5: The multiple functions on the FN buttons aren't working properly. I assigned multifunctions to two different FN buttons, but when I set the first FN button to ISO, the multifunction of the second FN button automatically changes to ISO as well. Why can't I have two different multifunctions on two separate FN buttons? So sad

[@ramonscott6045]

I agree with you Robin on all your points. I have been waiting to replace my EM1 mkii and EM5 mkii combination and wanted to see the OM offerings. Unfortunately I don't see any real advances as I need a hybrid camera these days for my work so after years of being a loyal Olympus user I am ordering a GH6

[@leendertvanzanten2427]

GH6, it will mis out phase detection

[@robinwong]

GH6 is a good alternative. Unfortunately I do not do video production work, hence my current OM-D system will suffice. If I do video, I'd jump onto the GH6 in no time.

[@craigcarlson4022]

Robin, I’m considering my first 4/3rds camera as a light and compact every day carry option. The Pen-F appeals to me…Do you think they’ll ever bring back a successor to that? What else might you recommend as a first 4/3rds model that has IBIS and is on the more compact side? Thanks for all your thoughts.

[@Lordvader330]

Excellent video. I will stick with my OM-1 and my EM-1 MII & X

[@robinwong]

You already have the best!

[@chevyyyyyyy]

Was there a shortage of the right kind of capable chips?

[@cliveturner6702]

I totally agree with you Robin, I am very underwhelmed with this so called new camera.

[@TheNarrowbandChannel]

Have not seen your video yet as I am typing this but yes the OM5 is underwelming. It keeps pace with most of the other camera companies and is competitive but I want it to be more competitive. I felt the Om1 stepped out in front of the competition while this one keeps pace.

[@robinwong]

Yeah feels like one step forward, two steps backward

[@Tom-Tenerife]

Dear Robin, you are very clever! Approved 100% and many greathings from Canary Islands Spain

[@pgy8863]

Yet another great video Robin. Underwhelming - yes. I agree with your thoughts, even the small obvious changes would have been seen as incremental. Here's a thought: The Oly OM-5 version 2 and 3 are really good, complete cameras. They are hard to make significant improvements, especially v3. As someone who's running along happily on an OM-5 v2, perhaps the new introduction will drop the price of v3? Let's be honest, all of these cameras can make great results in a variety of situations.

[@davebellamy4867]

Just got an EM5 Mk iii. Liking it. As an EM10 ii user. Discounts are deep and maybe getting deeper.

[@terrynoon8467]

Hi Robin, I share your views on the OM 5 and thank you for your well balanced arguments even though you do not have access to a copy yet. What you say makes sense and the new camera does seem to offer a very minor set of upgrades to most people without fully meeting the apparent requirements of the new brand. The most notable example of this is the lack of adoption of the new menu system evidenced in the OM 1. What is this camera, something new or simply an excuse to rebrand on the cheap. Come on OM systems you will have to do better than that if you wish to justify the legacy of a great innovative brand like Olympus.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Terry, and yes we all want to see more progress!

[@johnmartin1954]

I agree with you 100% I own a OMD EM1 mark iii which is about 2 years older than the OM5 and I believe my camera is far more advanced than the OM 5. Great video Robin !

[@robinwong]

E-m1 Mark III is awesome!

[@mmwalks]

Pre launch i was hoping the new om5 would be a worthy upgrade to my em5ii. But after seeing the specs and different reviews I think it’s better to get an em5iii, and as vain as it sounds I like the look of the Olympus branding better than OM Systems.

[@robinwong]

Yes, E-M5 Mark III is still a great option, I am loving mine

[@zayacz123]

You make very good points. I have the New OM1 and love it. I upgraded from the EM 1 Mark 2. All I can think of is they ran out of inventory and just made a few tweaks to boost sales. I agree with you regarding what they should have done. The technology is already there.

[@robinwong]

Thanks. How do you expect to boost the sales when the new camera is the same old?

[@zayacz123]

@@robinwong Exactly!

[@jonwalker3299]

This situation is exactly like the professional buying a new Nikon Z9. As a backup he can buy the Z6 or Z7 at less than half the price, use the same interchangeable lens, the same charging system, and the exact same menus . That is what I was expecting from the new OM5. I am so disappointed

[@davebellamy4867]

I would bet that there is loads of inventory. Hence big discounts on a lot of lenses and now the EM5 Mark iii. It's been a great year to get some of this stuff at basically 30 to 40% off. It makes me wonder if the sale of the camera division might have been basically an inventory sale plus the sale of an already designed OM1. That would explain the OM5 being basically an old EM1 Mk iii in an old EM5 Mark iii body. Just to prolong the life of this company long enough to shift the inventory they likely bought from Olympus? Perhaps?

[@jazzcats1000]

Hello Robin, totally agree. In some way revealing about OMDS state of affairs, unfortunately. On the bright side there will be spare parts for the EM-5mk3 for several more years!

[@rogerpha1398]

All we want is a Pen F mk2...how loud do we have to shout it?

[@hanswurst831]

Good Video. You totally right in between of the OM 5. I own the EM-5 Mark III.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Hans, appreciate that

[@hanswurst831]

I will now relative my post above, because I own the OM 5 since a while. There are some really good features in the OM 5, they are not in the EM 5 III: Handheld HiResShot Live ND GPS over bluetooth Save and reload camera settings from the App My menu Custom settings with a button All in all it was worth for me the upgrade. OM 5 has the right size and weight. OM 1 or EM 1 Mk III are tho big and heavy for me. Greetings

[@Peacelover123-t7i]

Robin sony just released a new camara thea7rt With the same sensor as mark 4 Without in camera stacking which is important for macro Did anybody bash them for lack of inovation?

[@robinwong]

Sony is dominating the market right now. They can do almost anything they want. OM Digital Solutions has just started, and OM-5 was their first camera to feature the OM System name. And Olympus basically died in the market. These are two very different companies. Are you saying it is ok for OM Digital Solutions to: 1) Not listen to their customer feedback 2) Not showing progress? No, I don't think so, I think they should have invested more effort into the OM-5.

[@Hazendal777]

Master Robin. Thanks for the nice video ,like always !!!

[@Erdal_Gumus]

Dear Robin your complaints are correct from my point of view. Olympus/OMD has lost the cost/benefits balance. OMD should offer a 24 Mpx resolution these days with better video specs at a low cost to survive. With reasonable pricing, it would go far further but… In the past, M43 had an undeniable weight/size advantage over DSLRs however that gap has already closed with the introduction of mirrorless systems in terms of body size. The M43 Panasonic GH6 is 823g/1200$ compared to the full-frame Nikon D780 840g/1200$ Sony A7 MIV 658g/2500$. As you can see a capable M43 body is bigger, heavier, and almost as expensive as a mirrorless full-frame body. This is mostly because of the drawbacks in video recording where full-frames have full-sensor read-out, cropping, and downscaling problems, where they are not able to use the full potential of a full-frame sensor. I don’t see a future for any M43 body priced over 1500$ at most.

[@R.Es1]

😂😂 I love your sour grapes comment. I have to agree with OMS seeming to go down the same line that caused Oly to eventually dissolve. For me personally, the EM5 literally checks 98% of what I've been looking for in a first camera. So I'm probably grabbing one

[@dwong92464]

As a consumer, I would have liked OM System to have put more in the camera, but I can understand their thinking. The OM-1 is the flagship. The OM-5 should not challenge that position. Instead, they took the guts of the EM-1iii and put it in the smaller form factor. Like the OM-1, this camera has probably been on the boards since before the sale of the company. It will be interesting to see what the OM-1ii will be like. Once that comes out, then there you will probably get the OM-5ii that has all the features you are seeking. We will just have to wait and see. Until then, I will be using my EM-5iii.

[@weisserth]

I watched the live stream yesterday. As an owner of the E-M1 III my reaction was: "Meh." It's essentially an E-M1 III in a cheaper, inferior body - the improved rating for sealing does not compensate the inferior build quality. I'd probably still buy the E-M1 III over the OM-5 if I had to start from scratch. Even without changing the hardware they could have improved a lot of the software - like allowing custom video settings to be saved as mysets and assigned to custom modes - without that OMDS/Olympus bodies are not really great to use as video cameras - such low hanging fruit they could have addressed.

[@robinwong]

Basically the same camera, and they did a live stream? What a waste of marketing resources

[@weisserth]

@@robinwong I think they did this to provide an E-M1 III at a cheaper price point, cheaper by $600 compared to the recommended retail price of the E-M1 III and still $300 less than with the current rebate. The OM-5 will help them generate more revenue than the E-M1 III.

[@Jonathan-hu3lk]

I’ve been considering the em5 iii on the secondhand market. It is a shame about the plastic build, but I think I can live with it. One thing I’d like to find out is whether they’ve made changes to focus peaking? With older Olympus bodies (my Olympus pen f in particular), when shooting in b&w and focus peaking, the camera switches to colour while focusing before the b&w image is taken. Not a major issue, but it is a little distracting. Also, with fully manual focus lenses (mitakon, pergear etc), the magnification focusing aid doesn’t work. Has this changed at all on any of the newer Olympus/OM cameras? Fuji cameras have neither of these issues.

[@StrangelyIronic]

I was hoping they would release a new Pen-F with more or less the same shell but with the updated hardware, software, and weather sealing. I'm a sucker for rangefinder style bodies, and the new Pen-F was probably one of the best cameras made in ages design wise. Either way, the OM-5 is a way to reuse molds while delivering reasonable updates for people like me where my newest body is from 2016 (E-M5.2, E-P5, GX85, and GX8). Still seems dumb to not have the new menu system. I never had problems with Olympus' menus (nor Sony that people like to complain about), but the OM-1's menu system was probably the biggest upgrade from an E-M1.3 that over 90% of users would notice. It's definitely something they could have made work with the hardware in the OM-5. That new menu system alone would have sold a lot of OM-5's :\.

[@alaintuor]

Thanks Robin. This makes me sad, as I'll have to wait a few more years before I upgrade my EM 5 Mark III 😞

[@hans-christophlenz3356]

Thanks for this video. I agree in every aspect. The really sad conclusion is, that OM systems apparently has a very small development department. Second, they don't have a good selling department either. When you are looking for a new camera you enter a camera store, the first thing you do is looking through the viewfinder. So this is the first thing to develop.

[@CMBDIA]

i get excited when there is a new robin wong video! i have an em5mii and it's absoutely incredible. It's what has me stick with m4/3. What I really want is the body of a lumix g9 with the functionality of the om-5. I have to add a grip to my em5. it's not a negative on olympus. i knew what i was getting into with the style/form factor. the om1 is really nice but a bit out of my price range. maybe i'll wait for the em1miii to drop in price to get that next. Also, I really dislike the plastic body. I'll deal with the extra cost and weight of the metal body. I agree with the weight savings on camera systems. I've been struggling with lower back pain and got spine surgery this year. So if I can alleviate pressure on my back then that's great. I came from an APSC system to m4/3. I'm not saying it was a major factor in my decision but I can enjoy outdoor activities more when my backpack weighs less. I carry 2 bodies and maybe 3-5 lenses at a time.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Art for commenting. I wish they listened more to their customers!

[@xfontan66]

Curious my Em10 MkII has more metal in it. I want upgrade but I do not know if it is really worth it. Very good video as usual

[@Valerossi0]

When I saw the specs I first thought about you and your sorrows about the future of Olympus/om system

[@robinwong]

Yeah, they are basically repeating their mistakes all over again.

[@devroombagchus7460]

I am afraid I agree with you. I was a big fan of Olympus film and still have the OM4Ti. Adding digital, I bought the 1M3. All metal and weather resistant. But a bad EVF, small dynamic range, awkward little buttons for the enormous menu in the Swiss winter. Shortly after my purchase, the OMS 1 came out. What I heard, with minor changes. Does OMS bring out new old cameras so that they can print their name on them?

[@robinwong]

Why not print their name on the OM-1 then? And leave the Olympus on the new OM-5, makes more sense that way

[@geebee2276]

Great video Robin. Thank you for your opinion on the new OMD5, which I value. Still using a 5 II which I’ll stick with for now.

[@karelmachado8535]

Thank you for speaking out

[@rudiwolff1484]

Greetings from Spain, Robin! I watched your rant the first 25 minutes (have to listen to the rest another moment, but I will). As I listen to you I understood that's the EM5 mark III with a new processor in quintessence. As a EM5 mark III user it comes down to: can I fight against great acquisition syndrome successfully. The new computational capabilities (and I wouldn't say they aren't a step up from the mark III) are quite attractive, but do I really need them? You've done a great job. Thank you. Cheers

[@lorenschwiderski]

Old model $899 New model $1199 with little changed. Which would you buy? I bought the Lumix GX-9 with 12-60mm lens for $799, which was the better deal. If needing an Olympus, the OM5 would not be on my list. The older models, when discounted make more sense. My EM 10 mk II is a good metal camera, and cost me very-very little to buy -- I think it was a third the cost. Almost a giveaway price at the time. - Loren Schwiderski 🙃

[@Topper_Harley68]

Fujifilm

[@robinschaeffer6252]

Some incremental changes that move it a little closer to the EM1.3 is not a bad thing. It may not have been intended to make people rush out and replace their EM5.3, but rather a way to allow people with older 16mp sensors to upgrade to 20 mps and throw in few upgrades for good measure. It also gets a camera out there with the new brand name. I would assume when the EM5.3's sell out they won't be making more of them.

[@Leptospirosi]

I would agree if this were an OM10: the 5 serie always has been (not the mkIII tho) the bench for new technologies that would then go into the professional serie 1, but now the OM5 hasj just become a way to restyle old generation cameras, with a 6 years old sensor and all the limitations (video) that this implies. A digital camera is just a sensor with some tech around to process the output: if you keep selling the same sensor, you are just selling a "restyle" for full price, not a new generation of the model.

[@robinwong]

It is not about making it closer to E-M1 Mark III. This is a successor to E-M5 Mark III, we need more significant upgrades from the E-M5 Mark III, all I am seeing is 99% similarities, which makes the OM-5 quite a redundant product.

[@JDa67]

Hi Robin! 200% agree with you! It's exactly the same story as for the E-M5 Mk III. It was an E-M1 Mk II components and software in an E-M5 II low cost body. This time it's the E-M1 Mk III components and software (incl. menu) in an E-M5 Mk III body... I'm quiet disapointed and affraid about the future of the company if they don't react quickly.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Jerome for sharing your thoughts. I hope they get their act together and form better strategies moving forward.

[@clintnorthwood8058]

I think you should specifically mention AF tracking because the AF is fine in the e-m5iii, just the tracking that needs improvement.

[@krgorny]

Thank you for your video, Robin! Is it possible that in the future OM may change the menu system via the firmware update?

[@akyerit]

Why didn't they at LEAST give it 10 bit? Should have been exactly on par with the em1 mkiii at minimal right? Swing and a miss.

[@robinwong]

Yeah I really wish we get 10bit video

[@manueldurer3177]

Hello Robin, thx for your Video. i agree with you I have the E-M5 Mark III Im a hobby Adventure Photographer 90% of my pictures what i mike on Hiking or Traveling. The OM1 is great but to expensive, to big and to heavy for me. My Wish was: The New Sensor from the OM1 A Beter View Finder More AF Points. The New Processsor with features like Live ND, Hand-Held High Res, Star AF are Welcome but not a game changer for me.

[@robinwong]

Thanks Manuel for sharing your thoughts. Agreed, we need more progress from the OM-5

[@miguelmayer3473]

First EM 5 was Wheatersealed?

[@denisardeche]

Bonjour Robin, Je n'ai pas l'intention d'avoir l'om 5 ,j'ai déja son petit frére l'om E-5 mark III avec le 12-40 2.8 cela me suffi Mais toujours de bonnes vidéos qui font plaisir à voir Merci

[@rickbear7249]

Robin, I have to disagree, as I'd like to have seen OM SYSTEMS going further with stripping back on the gizmos to give us an even more basic photography tool. Yes, I do want exceptional build quality, and I actually like most of what I'm reading. Just so long as the price is right, I'll be happy to welcome an OM SYSTEMS branded EM-5 with just a few technical tweaks. What I really dislike is this headlong rush to add ever more gizmos into our gear instead of concentrating upon giving us a really good basic tool with excellent build and weatherproofing. Others may disagree, but I don't want an AI camera, just a basic small and lightweight tool onto which I can mount my superb Olympus PRO Series lenses. Rick

[@gabithemagyar]

I'm with you ! A camera aimed squarely at mostly stills photographers unencumbered with tons of video features that one rarely uses which lead to a complex menu system would make for a great travel and street camera if housed in a robust and ergonomic body. It would make sense to me to have models aimed at mostly stills photographers and others aimed at mostly video shooters. That seems to be the direction SONY is taking, for example.

[@XboxTheBeatboxer]

I appreciate you and your passion. I've been using an OMD-EM-5 with a Voigtlander 25mm 0.95 since the camera and lens combo came out. It's still going strong for me in 2022 and has helped me capture some wonderful moments. My next camera will be a Leica. Thank you for posting this video!

[@johnmiller6108]

This is a fabulous camera. Yes it follows the e-m1 iii closely but it should because this is a smaller sibling to the om1. It is not its competitor as so it should take a back seat to the flag ship. OMDS as this down pat. Robin quit crying because you were over looked. You will never be an ambassador again do to your constant whining. Handheld hi res, stary sky, 4 stop ND and the like makes this perfect for its position in the system. fabulous