The Photokina show in Germany marked a major moment for Olympus as they unveiled a fresh lineup of cameras aimed at both enthusiasts and professionals. Among these, two standout models garnered particular attention: the Olympus PEN E-PL5 and the Olympus Stylus XZ-2. As successors to well-established lines, these models brought several significant upgrades in imaging performance, usability, and flexibility—both for land photography and underwater use.
This review offers an in-depth, initial look into the new features, handling, and expected underwater performance of these two cameras. The PEN E-PL5 aims to fill the niche between beginner and enthusiast mirrorless shooters, while the XZ-2 brings refinements to Olympus’s popular compact series. Both offer promises of improved sensor performance, video capabilities, and user interface improvements. Here’s a breakdown of what these upgrades mean in practice.
First Impressions of the Olympus PEN E-PL5
Olympus has continued to build upon the strengths of its PEN series with the E-PL5. The biggest internal improvement is the upgrade to a 16-megapixel sensor, borrowed from the highly praised OM-D E-M5. This is a noticeable jump from the previous E-PL3’s 12-megapixel sensor and immediately suggests better image quality, detail capture, and dynamic range. The new sensor not only increases resolution but also improves low-light performance, though real-world ISO testing is still ongoing.
The camera maintains the same micro-four-thirds mount, providing broad compatibility with Olympus and Panasonic lenses. This includes excellent underwater options like the 60mm macro and the Panasonic 8mm fisheye. This lens compatibility continues to be a big strength of the Olympus mirrorless system for underwater photographers.
One of the standout specifications in the E-PL5 is its burst shooting capability—8 frames per second. That’s a significant speed for a camera at this level, although it's important to note that both focus and exposure lock on the first frame during continuous shooting. For action shots or fast-paced environments, this is useful, but not fully flexible.
Enhanced Autofocus and ISO Handling
The E-PL5 introduces a new high-speed imager autofocus system. Testing reveals that it delivers significantly improved performance compared to earlier PEN models. Focus acquisition is quick and precise in most lighting conditions. This is particularly important for users who plan to use the camera in fast-changing environments like sports, wildlife, or underwater scenes where lighting may be dim or inconsistent.
ISO sensitivity has been expanded to a maximum of 25,600. While high ISO values are often more of a marketing figure than a reliable shooting option, this does suggest Olympus has improved noise handling. How well the camera performs at high ISO settings in actual low-light scenarios will need further testing. However, based on early samples, detail retention and color integrity at ISO 3200–6400 are already a noticeable improvement from the E-PL3.
Video Capabilities and File Format Improvements
For video shooters, the E-PL5 returns to the .MOV file format, making it much easier for Mac users to edit their footage. Previous models used formats that often required transcoding, so this is a welcome usability improvement. Users can now shoot in H.264 or AVCHD compression formats, giving them flexibility between higher quality and smaller file sizes. Video recording is smooth, with strong color reproduction and sharp detail, although manual control during video remains somewhat limited.
Touch Screen, Flip Display, and Ergonomics
Topside, the E-PL5 features a new touchscreen interface and an updated 3-inch LCD that flips up 180 degrees. This design makes it ideal for selfies, vlogging, or any setup where the user wants to frame a shot from the front of the camera. The touchscreen adds an extra layer of intuitive control, especially useful for selecting autofocus points or reviewing images. It’s worth noting, though, that the screen does not fully flip up if the flash is attached.
Ergonomically, the camera feels solid and compact. Olympus continues its tradition of combining functional design with a lightweight build. The button layout is similar to previous models, which means existing users will feel at home.
Comparison to the Olympus OM-D E-M5
Naturally, many potential buyers will compare the E-PL5 to Olympus’s flagship OM-D E-M5. The OM-D comes with an electronic viewfinder, dual control dials, and five-axis image stabilization—all of which are missing in the E-PL5. However, the E-M5 also costs approximately $400 more. If you're looking for an affordable mirrorless camera with excellent image quality, the E-PL5 becomes a strong contender. Those extra features are valuable, but for many users, the performance-to-price ratio of the E-PL5 might make it the more logical choice.
Underwater Housing Expectations for the E-PL5
Although Olympus had not released the official underwater housing for the E-PL5 at the time of review, expectations were high. Based on previous models, the housing is likely to be made from high-quality polycarbonate and offer full access to camera controls. It's also expected to feature a port system that supports domes and macro lenses, which is crucial for serious underwater shooters. If Olympus follows its usual pattern, the housing will make the E-PL5 an appealing option for those wanting a capable and affordable underwater system.
Olympus PEN “Mini” E-PM2: A Missed Opportunity
Alongside the E-PL5, Olympus released the E-PM2, a streamlined and smaller version of the PEN series. While the E-PM2 includes many of the same internal upgrades—such as the new sensor and improved autofocus—there’s disappointing news for underwater enthusiasts. Olympus has indicated that they do not plan to release a housing for the E-PM2. Users of the E-PM1 who were hoping for a direct upgrade path may find themselves considering the E-PL5 instead.
From a design standpoint, the E-PM2 is compact and user-friendly. However, without an underwater housing, its appeal within the diving and underwater photography community is diminished.
Olympus Stylus XZ-2: Compact Evolution
Turning to Olympus’s compact camera offering, the Stylus XZ-2 is a follow-up to the well-regarded XZ-1. While the changes here are more evolutionary than revolutionary, they address some of the limitations users noted in the original model. The XZ-2 features a 12-megapixel backlit CMOS sensor, a jump from the 10MP CCD found in the XZ-1. This change promises better dynamic range and reduced noise in low-light situations. Early impressions suggest the new sensor does indeed provide cleaner images with improved color depth.
The XZ-2 also improves its video capabilities. It now records in the .MOV format with H.264 or MPEG-4AVC compression, moving away from the Motion JPEG used in the XZ-1. This change makes the XZ-2 more compatible with a wider range of video editing software and platforms.
Control Ring, Lens, and Manual Functionality
The standout improvement in the XZ-2 is the redesigned front control ring. In the XZ-1, this ring was functionally limited—its use was locked to the camera’s shooting mode. The XZ-2 introduces a customizable ring with multiple functions, including control over ISO, aperture, and shutter speed. It also offers focus and zoom adjustments. This flexibility significantly enhances the shooting experience, especially for photographers who want fast manual control in a compact body.
The lens remains the same fast, bright 1.8 iZuiko lens with 4x optical zoom. This lens is ideal for low-light conditions and produces excellent shallow depth-of-field effects for a compact camera. Image sharpness remains high, and the bokeh is smooth and pleasing. The combination of a fast lens with an improved sensor makes the XZ-2 a great performer in tricky lighting scenarios.
Additional Features and Design Upgrades
Like the E-PL5, the XZ-2 includes a touchscreen and a flip LCD screen, providing better control and compositional flexibility. The camera also has a hot-shoe that doubles as an accessory port. This allows users to add flashes, external microphones, or even an electronic viewfinder.
The overall build quality of the XZ-2 is solid. It feels durable, and its size makes it easy to carry while traveling. The user interface is responsive, and the button layout is intuitive.
Despite these upgrades, the XZ-2 sits in a very competitive segment. The compact camera market has seen strong entries from other brands, particularly Sony and Canon. The Sony RX100 and Canon G12 remain strong alternatives due to their better sensor performance and more refined autofocus systems.
Underwater Housing for the XZ-2
As with the E-PL5, an official housing for the XZ-2 had not been released at the time of this review. However, based on Olympus’s track record, it is likely to offer full camera control and be compatible with wet lenses via 67mm threads. This would make the XZ-2 a versatile option for those seeking macro or wide-angle accessory lens compatibility underwater. If Olympus includes these features in the housing design, the XZ-2 could become a solid alternative to larger mirrorless systems for casual or travel divers.
Field Testing the Olympus PEN E-PL5: Real-World Performance
After spending time with the Olympus PEN E-PL5 in a variety of environments, from natural light street photography to controlled indoor shooting, several consistent strengths and a few limitations have emerged. The real-world performance shows that Olympus has genuinely built upon the success of the E-PL3 and brought substantial enhancements to this mid-range mirrorless camera.
One of the most noticeable features during field testing is the responsiveness of the autofocus. The E-PL5's autofocus system is not just fast—it’s accurate across a range of conditions. In good lighting, focus is achieved almost instantly. Even in lower-light scenarios, the system performs admirably with minimal hunting. Face detection is quick and reliable, making the E-PL5 well-suited for candid and portrait photography.
The camera’s burst mode also delivers as promised. Shooting at 8 frames per second allows photographers to capture fast-moving subjects with precision. However, the locking of focus and exposure on the first frame limits flexibility for varying action shots. This means that for sports or fast-changing compositions, users may need to rely on single-shot AF instead for the most accurate exposure and focus across frames.
Image Quality and Color Rendition
Olympus has long been praised for its vibrant and accurate color science, and the E-PL5 continues this tradition. JPEG images straight from the camera show rich tones and pleasing warmth without appearing oversaturated. Skin tones are rendered naturally, and landscape images feature vibrant blues and greens. The 16MP sensor provides a notable boost in sharpness and fine detail compared to the previous generation.
RAW files offer plenty of room for adjustment. Highlights and shadows recover well, especially at lower ISO settings. The sensor’s dynamic range, while not on par with full-frame competitors, is impressive for a micro four-thirds system. This makes the E-PL5 a capable camera for challenging lighting conditions like backlit scenes or high-contrast street photography.
Low-light performance is another area where improvements are evident. While the E-PL3 struggled at ISO 1600 and beyond, the E-PL5 remains usable up to ISO 3200 or even 6400 in specific contexts. Noise is present, as expected, but detail retention remains surprisingly good. At ISO 25,600, image degradation is more pronounced, but this setting may still be usable for emergency or creative low-light shots.
Customization and Handling
The camera’s menu system remains consistent with Olympus’s user interface. Though not the most intuitive for beginners, experienced users will find the menu structure flexible and highly customizable. The Mysets function allows for personalized shooting profiles, which can be a huge advantage when quickly switching between different shooting environments.
The touchscreen LCD adds a layer of usability that simplifies tasks like focus point selection and image review. The 180-degree tilting screen is also highly functional for unique shooting angles, selfies, or vlogging. However, users must be aware that the screen does not fully tilt upward if the flash is mounted.
In terms of physical handling, the camera’s grip is sufficient for casual use, although some photographers with larger hands may find it slightly cramped. The camera’s compact size, however, is perfect for travel and discreet shooting, making it easy to carry all day without fatigue.
Olympus PEN E-PL5 and Lens Compatibility
One of the E-PL5’s strongest features is its compatibility with the entire micro four-thirds lens ecosystem. During testing, the camera was paired with several lenses, including the standard 14-42mm IIR kit lens, the 45mm f/1.8 portrait lens, and the 60mm f/2.8 macro.
The kit lens is serviceable, offering decent sharpness and contrast. While it won't deliver the sharpest results across the frame, it’s perfectly usable for everyday photography. The 45mm f/1.8 lens, on the other hand, unlocks the camera’s full imaging potential. Sharpness is exceptional even wide open, and the shallow depth-of-field is perfect for isolating subjects in portraits.
The 60mm macro is a standout for underwater use. It pairs excellently with the E-PL5 for capturing detailed images of marine life. Focusing is fast and accurate, and the working distance is suitable for shooting small creatures without disturbing them. The E-PL5’s sensor captures subtle textures and patterns well, and the macro lens maximizes those strengths.
Underwater Imaging Capabilities
Although the housing was still unreleased at the time of this writing, expectations are based on Olympus’s established pattern of quality housing. These typically feature full camera control, durable polycarbonate construction, and interchangeable ports.
With its small form factor, the E-PL5 is ideal for underwater photography, allowing for a compact and maneuverable housing setup. Paired with a fisheye lens like the Panasonic 8mm or wide-angle options like the Olympus 9-18mm, this setup should deliver striking reefscapes and close-focus wide-angle shots.
Color reproduction remains vibrant underwater when using external strobes or appropriate white balance settings. The camera’s strong performance at ISO 800–1600 also ensures cleaner shots in deeper or darker environments.
Olympus Stylus XZ-2 in Real-World Use
The XZ-2, while positioned as a compact camera, feels surprisingly robust. It retains the metal build quality and stylish aesthetic of the XZ-1, while adding more functionality. During field testing, it performs smoothly and responds quickly to user input. The touchscreen is accurate and responsive, and the ability to tilt the screen is invaluable for creative angles and discreet shooting.
Image quality is an improvement from the XZ-1, largely due to the switch to a CMOS sensor. The difference in sharpness and noise handling is immediately noticeable, especially in low-light or high-contrast situations. While it’s still a smaller sensor than that of the E-PL5, Olympus has managed to extract a good amount of detail from this compact format.
Color remains a strong point. Whether shooting food, street scenes, or nature, the XZ-2 delivers lively yet accurate tones. The .MOV video format also produces clear, sharp footage with minimal compression artifacts, suitable for travel vlogging or casual documentary-style videos.
Customizable Control Ring and Manual Operation
One of the most talked-about features of the XZ-2 is the redesigned control ring around the lens. In use, this feature stands out for its versatility. Photographers can quickly assign functions like ISO, aperture, or even white balance to the ring. This gives the XZ-2 a level of manual control that rivals entry-level mirrorless models.
The lens itself remains a highlight. The fast f/1.8 aperture at the wide end allows for excellent subject separation and low-light shooting. The 4x zoom range is limited compared to travel zooms, but the trade-off is sharpness and speed. Autofocus is decent, although not as fast or precise as the E-PL5, especially in lower-light scenes.
Portability and Design Efficiency
With its metal body, the XZ-2 feels premium and solid. It’s slightly heavier than its predecessor, but this added weight contributes to a more stable shooting experience. The hot shoe and accessory port further elevate the camera’s versatility. Users can attach external flashes, microphones, or even an electronic viewfinder, expanding its use beyond a simple point-and-shoot.
The camera fits easily in a small bag or jacket pocket, making it perfect for on-the-go photography. It’s ideal for those who want high-quality images without the bulk of interchangeable lens systems.
Underwater Potential of the XZ-2
Just like the E-PL5, the official underwater housing for the XZ-2 had not been released at the time of this review. However, it is expected that Olympus will continue its trend of creating housings with 67mm threads. This would allow compatibility with wide-angle and macro wet lenses, giving users considerable creative flexibility underwater.
Given the XZ-2’s bright lens and improved sensor, it stands as a strong candidate for underwater macro work. With the right lighting and lens attachment, it should be able to capture vibrant coral textures, marine macro subjects, and colorful reef life.
For wide-angle scenes, however, its fixed lens and smaller sensor size place it behind the PEN series in terms of expandability and control. Yet for casual divers or those new to underwater photography, the XZ-2 offers a compact and effective solution.
Summary of Strengths and Weaknesses
Both the E-PL5 and XZ-2 bring notable strengths to their respective categories. The E-PL5 is a versatile mirrorless option with great image quality, lens flexibility, and anticipated housing compatibility. Its compact design makes it easy to handle underwater or on land, and the improved sensor places it in a very competitive position.
The XZ-2 refines Olympus’s compact line with better image processing, customizable controls, and a strong feature set for its size. Its usability and portability make it a great backup camera or a travel companion for photographers who value simplicity.
The E-PL5 does lack some advanced controls and features like the viewfinder and in-body stabilization seen in the OM-D line. Meanwhile, the XZ-2’s main limitation is its fixed lens system and smaller sensor, which affects depth-of-field control and ultimate image flexibility.
Real-World Use Cases: Olympus PEN E-PL5 in Action
The Olympus PEN E-PL5 was designed to suit a wide range of photographers—from beginners stepping into interchangeable lens systems to experienced shooters looking for a compact alternative to a DSLR. In practice, the camera performs exceptionally well across a variety of genres including street photography, travel, macro, landscape, portraiture, and of course, underwater imaging.
Street photographers benefit from the E-PL5’s compact form and discreet presence. Its fast autofocus and responsive touchscreen make it easy to capture fleeting moments with precision. Coupled with a compact prime like the Olympus 17mm f/1.8, the camera is quick to operate and delivers sharp, color-rich images.
For travel and documentary photography, the PEN E-PL5 shines with its portability and adaptability. The 14-42mm kit lens covers a flexible zoom range, and adding a pancake prime allows for a lightweight travel kit. With customizable presets and fast startup time, spontaneous photo opportunities are easy to manage.
Macro photographers, particularly underwater shooters, will appreciate the PEN’s compatibility with the Olympus 60mm f/2.8 macro lens. The lens and camera pairing offers detailed close-ups with excellent color accuracy. Focus peaking and magnification assist features can be used for precise manual focusing when needed.
In portraiture, lenses like the Olympus 45mm f/1.8 deliver creamy backgrounds and flattering skin tones, highlighting the camera’s ability to serve as a professional tool in the right hands. The camera handles natural light well, and indoor portraits benefit from the improved ISO capabilities.
Underwater Shooting Configurations for the E-PL5
For underwater photographers, the Olympus E-PL5 offers a very attractive balance between size, performance, and flexibility. The micro four-thirds format is ideal for underwater use, thanks to a vast lens ecosystem and compact housing possibilities.
A typical underwater setup for wide-angle photography might involve the following:
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Olympus E-PL5 body
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Panasonic 8mm f/3.5 fisheye lens
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Olympus PT-EP10 housing or a third-party polycarbonate housing
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Dome port (for fisheye lens compatibility)
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Dual strobe lights (Sea & Sea or Inon)
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Fiber optic cables for strobe triggering.
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Wide-angle focusing light
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Ball arm tray and handles
This setup allows the user to capture expansive reef scenes, sunballs, and large subjects like turtles and sharks with excellent sharpness and minimal distortion. The fisheye perspective adds impact and immerses the viewer in the scene.
For macro photography, the ideal configuration includes:
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Olympus E-PL5
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Olympus 60mm f/2.8 macro lens
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Flat macro port compatible with housing
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Single or dual macro strobes
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Focus light with red beam option.
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Macro diopters (if desired for super-macro)
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Sturdy base tray with adjustable arms
This configuration enables photographers to work closely with small marine subjects like nudibranchs, shrimp, or pygmy seahorses. The camera’s fast autofocus and the lens’s sharp rendering make fine details stand out beautifully.
Stylus XZ-2: Use Cases and Versatility
The Olympus Stylus XZ-2, while lacking interchangeable lenses, holds its own as a powerful compact camera in diverse scenarios. It is best suited for travelers, beginners, casual vloggers, and divers looking for a simpler shooting experience with high image quality.
For casual urban exploration or family travel, the XZ-2 is a go-to camera. It offers intuitive controls, touchscreen convenience, and excellent JPEG processing for those who don’t wish to dive into post-production. The fast f/1.8 aperture on the wide end allows for good performance in museums, cafes, or dimly lit streets, while the zoom range covers most daily shooting needs.
In the hands of a vlogger or solo content creator, the XZ-2 offers full HD recording, a flip screen, and a responsive autofocus system. While it lacks external mic input, the internal audio is clean enough for informal use. When paired with a tripod or small grip, it can serve as a minimalist setup for YouTube or travel logs.
For divers, especially those who are new to underwater photography, the XZ-2 offers an accessible path into the hobby. Its fixed lens simplifies operation underwater, and its compact body keeps housings lightweight and easy to manage. When paired with a housing that accepts wet lenses, its potential expands significantly.
Olympus E-PL5 vs. OM-D E-M5
Many buyers compare the E-PL5 to the OM-D E-M5, since both use the same 16MP sensor and Micro Four Thirds lens mount. While the image quality is near-identical, several factors differentiate the two.
The OM-D E-M5 offers:
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Built-in electronic viewfinder
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Magnesium alloy weather-sealed body
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Dual control dials
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5-axis in-body image stabilization
The E-PL5 lacks these advanced features but compensates with a lighter, more compact design and a much lower price point. For photographers who don't need a viewfinder or shoot mostly from the LCD, the E-PL5 presents a better value. Underwater, where the LCD is typically used anyway, the E-PL5 remains the more practical and economical choice.
Olympus XZ-2 vs. Sony RX100
The compact market is highly competitive, and the Sony RX100 has become the benchmark for high-end compact cameras. Compared to the RX100, the Olympus XZ-2 holds up well in terms of build quality and lens brightness, especially at the wide end. However, the RX100 features a larger 1-inch sensor, which provides better dynamic range, improved low-light performance, and deeper post-processing latitude.
Where the XZ-2 gains an edge is in:
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Lens control ring customization
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Better ergonomics and grip
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Touchscreen interface
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Accessory port and hot shoe
For users who prioritize handling and customization over ultimate image quality, the XZ-2 remains a compelling option. That said, for low-light shooters or those planning heavy cropping in post-production, the RX100 has the advantage.
Recommended Accessories for the E-PL5 and XZ-2
To maximize the performance of these cameras, a few essential accessories are highly recommended. For the E-PL5:
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Extra batteries: Mirrorless cameras consume batteries quickly
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16GB+ Class 10 SD cards or faster for video
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Electronic flash for indoor or fill light work
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External microphones via hot shoe accessories for improved audio
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Lens hoods and ND filters for bright outdoor conditions
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Waterproof bag or weather protection cover for travel
For underwater shooting, a wet lens system (67mm threaded) allows easy switching between macro and wide-angle during the same dive, especially useful for the XZ-2.
For the XZ-2:
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Magnetic lens cap for convenience
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Compact camera pouch
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Small tripod or GorillaPod
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Extra battery and SD card
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External flash for bounce lighting
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Optional VF-2 viewfinder (using the hot shoe port)
These accessories extend each camera’s versatility for different types of users—from hobbyists to underwater professionals.
Advantages of Micro Four-Thirds for Underwater Use
The micro four-thirds system, shared by the E-PL5, offers a unique advantage for underwater photography. Its sensor size balances image quality with smaller body and lens sizes, enabling photographers to build lightweight systems that don’t compromise on optics.
Compared to APS-C or full-frame systems, MFT cameras allow for:
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Smaller dome ports
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Shorter working distances
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Better depth of field for macro subjects
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Lighter buoyancy setups
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Easier travel and packing for international dive trips
This makes them a top choice for liveaboards, reef diving, or any extended photo trips that require minimizing baggage.
Cost and Value Considerations
Cost is a major factor when choosing between cameras. The Olympus PEN E-PL5, at launch, positioned itself as a budget-friendly mirrorless system with high-end image capabilities. When paired with a housing and macro or wide lens, it becomes an advanced underwater rig without the full cost of DSLR kits.
On the other hand, the Olympus XZ-2 appeals to those who want good performance in a compact form, with fewer components to manage. Its value lies in its simplicity and versatility. However, as compact cameras go, it sits at the higher end of the price spectrum and now competes with newer models offering larger sensors and faster processors.
In the long term, the E-PL5 allows for more system expansion and longevity, since users can upgrade bodies while keeping lenses. The XZ-2 is a fixed-lens system, meaning upgrades require complete replacement.
Ideal Users for Each Camera
The Olympus PEN E-PL5 is ideal for:
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Enthusiasts stepping into mirrorless systems
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Travelers wanting a lightweight, interchangeable-lens setup
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Underwater photographers needing wide and macro capabilities
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Portrait and lifestyle photographers who want fast primes
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Shooters wanting good video quality without complex setups.
The Olympus Stylus XZ-2 is best suited for:
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Beginners upgrading from smartphones
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Casual travelers looking for better quality without bulk.
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Entry-level underwater shooters
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Vloggers or hybrid content creators
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Users who prefer touchscreen controls and manual customization
Each camera fills a specific niche, and understanding the intended use is key to choosing between them.
Advanced Functionality and Creative Control
One of the standout features of the Olympus PEN E-PL5 and XZ-2 is the breadth of creative control and advanced functionality they offer to both enthusiasts and semi-professional photographers. These cameras aren't just about automated point-and-shoot capabilities—they invite users to take full command over exposure, depth of field, color processing, and in-camera effects.
The E-PL5, leveraging its Micro Four Thirds sensor, provides full manual exposure modes (P/A/S/M), RAW image support, customizable white balance, and ISO settings that can be fine-tuned up to 25,600. This allows photographers to experiment with low-light and high-contrast scenes more effectively. The fast burst rate of 8 frames per second is notable in this class, making it suitable for capturing motion in events, sports, or candid street photography.
Similarly, the XZ-2, while being a compact camera, shares much of this manual flexibility. The lens control ring is a distinctive feature that allows for intuitive adjustments of aperture, shutter speed, or ISO, depending on user preference. This tactile interface mimics the feel of a DSLR lens ring and is favored by users transitioning from full-sized systems.
Both cameras include Olympus' signature Art Filters, which provide creative interpretations of the scene without needing post-processing. These filters include options like Dramatic Tone, Pop Art, and Grainy Film. They’re available in both still and video modes, empowering photographers to express their creativity straight out of the camera.
For long-exposure fans, features like Live Bulb and Live Time are present in both models. These allow users to see a real-time preview of an ongoing long exposure on the rear LCD, adjusting exposure on the fly—an extremely useful tool for capturing fireworks, star trails, or light painting.
Touchscreen and User Experience
The incorporation of a touchscreen interface significantly enhances the usability of both the E-PL5 and XZ-2. On the E-PL5, the 3-inch tilting touchscreen LCD is touch-sensitive, allowing photographers to select focus points with a tap, release the shutter, and navigate menus intuitively. The touchscreen can tilt upward for waist-level shooting or downward for overhead compositions, improving versatility during complex framing situations.
The XZ-2 also benefits from a touchscreen interface. It features a capacitive 3-inch tilt LCD with a high resolution of 920,000 dots. The tactile response is fast and accurate, which simplifies the process of menu navigation and image review. While physical buttons are still present and functional, users find the combination of touch and manual control particularly helpful in dynamic environments.
Olympus has always emphasized user-centered design, and both of these models continue that tradition. Customizable function buttons, quick-access menus, and in-camera help prompts all serve to reduce the learning curve for newcomers while still offering depth for experienced users.
The Super Control Panel, a hallmark of Olympus cameras, is present in both the E-PL5 and XZ-2. It provides a consolidated view of major settings, allowing for quick adjustments without having to dive into complex menu hierarchies. This interface choice is a significant advantage for photographers who need to change settings on the fly.
Video Capabilities
While these cameras are primarily still photography tools, their video recording capabilities are more than sufficient for casual and semi-professional use. The Olympus PEN E-PL5 records Full HD 1080p video at 30 frames per second, with stereo audio capture and support for external microphones via an accessory port. The camera also offers Movie Mode stabilization, which is electronically enhanced, allowing for smoother handheld footage.
The XZ-2 is similarly equipped with 1080p video recording and stereo sound. Despite its compact form, the lens-based image stabilization and fast f/1.8 lens ensure better performance in handheld shooting and low light. The inclusion of Art Filters in video mode lets users apply creative styles directly to their footage, which is ideal for vloggers or content creators who want stylized video output without editing.
Both cameras offer touch-to-focus during video recording, which enhances creative possibilities such as rack focusing or subject isolation. This feature is highly appreciated by users aiming to shoot cinematic clips or casual home videos with professional polish.
While lacking advanced cinematic features like 4K, frame rate customization, or log profiles, the video performance of both models is reliable and user-friendly, making them suitable for short-form content, interviews, and travel documentation.
Lens Options and System Expansion
A major advantage of the PEN E-PL5 is its place in the Micro Four Thirds ecosystem. This system offers a wide range of native lenses from Olympus and Panasonic, as well as third-party options from Sigma, Voigtländer, and others. Users can find everything from ultra-wide to super-telephoto lenses, including fast primes and macro lenses.
The E-PL5’s interchangeable lens system makes it an ideal stepping-stone for photographers seeking to build a system over time. It supports advanced flash units, external microphones, electronic viewfinders, and even wireless triggers. The lens compatibility combined with accessory flexibility is one of the camera’s strongest points.
The XZ-2, while being a fixed-lens camera, has a high-performance i. Zuiko 6-24mm f/1.8–2.5 lens (equivalent to 28–112mm in 35mm terms). This optical zoom range covers most shooting scenarios from wide-angle landscapes to short telephoto portraits. While it lacks the expandability of an interchangeable system, the quality of the built-in lens is exceptional, with sharpness, clarity, and minimal distortion across the zoom range.
Moreover, the XZ-2 is compatible with a range of accessories via its hot shoe and accessory port. This includes external flashes, EVFs, and underwater housings, which extend its usability for travel, underwater, or event photography.
Portability and Battery Performance
Portability is a defining feature of both the Olympus PEN E-PL5 and XZ-2. The E-PL5, despite being a system camera, is impressively compact and lightweight, especially when paired with Olympus' 14-42mm kit lens or pancake primes. It’s a perfect candidate for travel or street photography, where discretion and speed are valued.
The XZ-2, being a compact camera, fits easily into a small bag or even a large pocket, making it ideal for spontaneous shooting. The camera’s solid build quality doesn’t compromise its portability; it feels durable and well-balanced, even with one hand.
Battery performance for both models is decent, though not groundbreaking. The E-PL5 offers approximately 360 shots per charge, depending on usage and screen brightness. The XZ-2 delivers around 310 shots. For extended use, carrying spare batteries is advisable. Charging is done via a dedicated wall charger for both models, which some users prefer over in-camera USB charging due to its speed and flexibility.
Durability, Build, and Ergonomics
Build quality has always been a hallmark of Olympus cameras, and these models continue that tradition. The E-PL5 is constructed from a solid polycarbonate and aluminum shell, giving it a premium feel. Its compact form is easy to grip, and the optional grip attachment (included in the box) enhances ergonomics for users with larger hands or when using longer lenses.
The XZ-2 features a magnesium alloy body with a rubberized grip that is both stylish and functional. It feels robust in hand and gives the impression of a premium compact camera. The build quality suggests longevity, even under frequent use.
Both models are well-sealed against everyday wear and tear, though they aren’t officially weather-sealed. For users working in dusty, rainy, or rugged environments, additional protection is advised.
Conclusion
The Olympus PEN E-PL5 and XZ-2 represent a compelling duo of photographic tools that blend portability, creative control, and image quality in a way that remains relevant, even years after their release.
The E-PL5, with its Micro Four Thirds sensor, fast autofocus, and system expandability, appeals to enthusiasts who seek DSLR-like performance in a compact form. It opens the door to interchangeable lenses and manual creativity while remaining approachable for beginners transitioning from smartphones or compacts.
The XZ-2, on the other hand, offers near-DSLR image quality in a fixed-lens package. With its fast lens, intuitive controls, and tactile design, it's the perfect travel companion for those who want more power than a point-and-shoot but less bulk than a system camera.
Both cameras stand as excellent examples of Olympus' commitment to innovation and user-centered design. Whether you prioritize flexibility or portability, you’ll find something worthwhile in either of these models. They are not just tools—they are creative partners, enabling photographers to explore, document, and express their world with style and confidence.