OlympusOlympus introduced its first camera in 1936, the Semi-Olympus I, fitted with the first Zuiko-branded lens. The first innovative camera series from Olympus was the Pen, launched in 1959. The half-frame format, allowing 72 pictures of 18 × 24 mm format on a standard 36-exposure roll of film, made Pen cameras compact and portable for their time. Pixel More has a rich history in camera manufacturing, and their digital camera lineup can be a bit confusing at first glance. This overview covers the main categories of OlympusOlympus introduced its first camera in 1936, the Semi-Olympus I, fitted with the first Zuiko-branded lens. The first innovative camera series from Olympus was the Pen, launched in 1959. The half-frame format, allowing 72 pictures of 18 × 24 mm format on a standard 36-exposure roll of film, made Pen cameras compact and portable for their time. Pixel More digital cameras. Each series caters to different photography needs, from professional-grade mirrorlessTechnically speaking most DSLR, point-and-shoot and smartphone cameras are mirrorless, in that they don’t have internal mirrors. However, mirrorless camera is a specific term for a camera where the sensor is directly exposed to light and the photographer has a preview of the potential image at all times to view on an electronic viewfinder. For example the Olympus and Panasonic micro four-thirds cameras are mirrorless. More cameras to rugged point-and-shoots for adventurous photographers.

Let's break down the various model letters and what they represent:

OM-D Series (Micro Four Thirds MirrorlessTechnically speaking most DSLR, point-and-shoot and smartphone cameras are mirrorless, in that they don’t have internal mirrors. However, mirrorless camera is a specific term for a camera where the sensor is directly exposed to light and the photographer has a preview of the potential image at all times to view on an electronic viewfinder. For example the Olympus and Panasonic micro four-thirds cameras are mirrorless. More)
1. E-M: Professional and enthusiast-level mirrorlessTechnically speaking most DSLR, point-and-shoot and smartphone cameras are mirrorless, in that they don’t have internal mirrors. However, mirrorless camera is a specific term for a camera where the sensor is directly exposed to light and the photographer has a preview of the potential image at all times to view on an electronic viewfinder. For example the Olympus and Panasonic micro four-thirds cameras are mirrorless. More cameras Examples: OM-D E-M1 Mark III, OM-D E-M5 Mark III
1. E-M10: Entry-level mirrorlessTechnically speaking most DSLR, point-and-shoot and smartphone cameras are mirrorless, in that they don’t have internal mirrors. However, mirrorless camera is a specific term for a camera where the sensor is directly exposed to light and the photographer has a preview of the potential image at all times to view on an electronic viewfinder. For example the Olympus and Panasonic micro four-thirds cameras are mirrorless. More cameras Example: OM-D E-M10 Mark IV
PEN Series (Micro Four Thirds MirrorlessTechnically speaking most DSLR, point-and-shoot and smartphone cameras are mirrorless, in that they don’t have internal mirrors. However, mirrorless camera is a specific term for a camera where the sensor is directly exposed to light and the photographer has a preview of the potential image at all times to view on an electronic viewfinder. For example the Olympus and Panasonic micro four-thirds cameras are mirrorless. More)
1. E-P: Higher-end rangefinder-style mirrorlessTechnically speaking most DSLR, point-and-shoot and smartphone cameras are mirrorless, in that they don’t have internal mirrors. However, mirrorless camera is a specific term for a camera where the sensor is directly exposed to light and the photographer has a preview of the potential image at all times to view on an electronic viewfinder. For example the Olympus and Panasonic micro four-thirds cameras are mirrorless. More cameras Example: PEN E-P7
1. E-PL: “Lite” versions of PEN cameras Example: PEN E-PL10
1. E-PM: “Mini” ultra-compact PEN cameras (discontinued) Example: PEN E-PM2
TOUGH Series (Rugged Compact Cameras)
1. TG: Waterproof, shockproof, and freezeproof cameras Example: Tough TG-6
Stylus/mju Series (Compact Cameras)
1. XZ: High-end compact cameras (discontinued) Example: Stylus XZ-2
1. SH: Long zoom compact cameras (discontinued) Example: Stylus SH-2
1. VR: Early virtual reality cameras (discontinued) Example: Stylus VR-370
SP Series (Superzoom/Bridge Cameras)
1. SP: Long zoom bridge cameras Example: SP-100EE

This overview covers the main categories of OlympusOlympus introduced its first camera in 1936, the Semi-Olympus I, fitted with the first Zuiko-branded lens. The first innovative camera series from Olympus was the Pen, launched in 1959. The half-frame format, allowing 72 pictures of 18 × 24 mm format on a standard 36-exposure roll of film, made Pen cameras compact and portable for their time. Pixel More digital cameras. Each series caters to different photography needs, from professional-grade mirrorlessTechnically speaking most DSLR, point-and-shoot and smartphone cameras are mirrorless, in that they don’t have internal mirrors. However, mirrorless camera is a specific term for a camera where the sensor is directly exposed to light and the photographer has a preview of the potential image at all times to view on an electronic viewfinder. For example the Olympus and Panasonic micro four-thirds cameras are mirrorless. More cameras to rugged point-and-shoots for adventurous photographers.

Olympus OM-D Model Range

The OM-D series represents Olympus' (now OM System's) flagship Micro Four Thirds mirrorlessTechnically speaking most DSLR, point-and-shoot and smartphone cameras are mirrorless, in that they don’t have internal mirrors. However, mirrorless camera is a specific term for a camera where the sensor is directly exposed to light and the photographer has a preview of the potential image at all times to view on an electronic viewfinder. For example the Olympus and Panasonic micro four-thirds cameras are mirrorless. More cameras. Here's a detailed breakdown of the OM-D lineup:

OM-D E-M1 Series (Professional)
1. E-M1X: Top-of-the-line pro body with integrated vertical grip
1. E-M1 Mark III: Latest flagship model
1. E-M1 Mark II: Previous generation flagship
1. E-M1: Original professional OM-D model

Key E-M1 features: Best-in-class image stabilization, weather sealing, dual card slots, high-speed shooting

OM-D E-M5 Series (Enthusiast)
- E-M5 Mark III: Latest mid-range model
- E-M5 Mark II: Previous generation
- E-M5: Original enthusiast OM-D model

Key M5 features: Compact body, weather sealing, advanced features in a smaller package

OM-D E-M10 Series (Entry-level)
- E-M10 Mark IV: Latest entry-level model
- E-M10 Mark III: Previous generation
- E-M10 Mark II: Second generation
- E-M10: Original entry-level OM-D

Key M10 features: Compact and lightweight, built-in flash, tilting touchscreen, affordable price point.

OM-D E-M1X (Specialized Pro Model)
- Integrated vertical grip
- Enhanced stabilization and autofocusAutofocus (AF) is an optical system that uses a sensor, a control system and a motor to focus on an automatically or manually selected point or area. The process of autofocusing generally works as follows: • An autofocus processor (AFP) makes a small change in the focusing distance.
  • AFP reads the AF sensor to assess whether and by how much focus has improved.
  • Using the information from (2), the AFP sets the lens to a new focusing distance.
  Autofocus systems can be found on film and digital cameras. More
- Designed for sports and wildlife photography
OM System OM-1 (New Flagship)
- First model under the new OM System brand
- Stacked CMOSA CMOS (Complementary Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor) is a type of metal–oxide–semiconductor that is one of two types of sensors used in digital cameras, the other being CCD. CMOS sensors are equipped with “rolling shutters,” which expose different parts of the frame at different points in time. This can lead to skew, wobble, and partial exposure in photographs. However, neither technology is a clear winner over the other in overall image quality. CMOS sensors consume around 100 times less power than equivalent CCD sensors leading to longer battery life. CMOS cameras are now more popular and currently used in most modern digital cameras. CMOS sensors can be fabricated on a standard silicon production line and are therefore less expensive compared to CCD sensors. More sensor
- Advanced AI-based autofocusAutofocus (AF) is an optical system that uses a sensor, a control system and a motor to focus on an automatically or manually selected point or area. The process of autofocusing generally works as follows: • An autofocus processor (AFP) makes a small change in the focusing distance.
  • AFP reads the AF sensor to assess whether and by how much focus has improved.
  • Using the information from (2), the AFP sets the lens to a new focusing distance.
  Autofocus systems can be found on film and digital cameras. More

Common Features Across the OM-D Range:

Micro Four Thirds sensor and lens mount
In-body image stabilization (IBISIBIS, or In-Body Image Stabilisation, is a feature found in some digital cameras that helps to reduce the effects of camera shake when capturing images or videos. It works by using sensors to detect any movement or shake in the camera and then compensates for it by moving the camera's sensor in the opposite direction of the movement. This results in sharper and clearer images and videos, especially in low light situations, slow shutter speeds, or when using longer focal lengths. More)
Electronic viewfinder (EVF)
Weather-sealed bodies (except some E-M10 models)
4K video capability (in later models)
Live Composite and other unique OlympusOlympus introduced its first camera in 1936, the Semi-Olympus I, fitted with the first Zuiko-branded lens. The first innovative camera series from Olympus was the Pen, launched in 1959. The half-frame format, allowing 72 pictures of 18 × 24 mm format on a standard 36-exposure roll of film, made Pen cameras compact and portable for their time. Pixel More shooting modes

The OM-D series is known for its compact size, excellent image stabilization, and robust weather sealing. Each series within the OM-D range caters to different user needs and budgets, from entry-level enthusiasts to professional photographers.

Olympus PEN Range

The PEN series is Olympus' line of compact Micro Four Thirds mirrorlessTechnically speaking most DSLR, point-and-shoot and smartphone cameras are mirrorless, in that they don’t have internal mirrors. However, mirrorless camera is a specific term for a camera where the sensor is directly exposed to light and the photographer has a preview of the potential image at all times to view on an electronic viewfinder. For example the Olympus and Panasonic micro four-thirds cameras are mirrorless. More cameras, inspired by the original half-frame PEN film cameras.

Evolution of the PEN Series:

The original E-P1 was introduced in 2009 as Olympus' first Micro Four Thirds camera.
Over time, the series has expanded to cater to different user needs and preferences.
The E-P line focuses on advanced features and controls.
The E-PL line offers a balance of features and compactness.
The E-PM line (now discontinued) prioritized ultra-compact size.
The PEN-F introduced a built-in viewfinder to the PEN lineup.

Here's a detailed breakdown of the PEN lineup:

PEN-F Series (High-End Rangefinder-Style)
1. PEN-F: Premium model with retro styling Key features: 20MP sensor, 5-axis IS, electronic viewfinder. Maybe there will be a PEN-F Mk II in the future.
E-P Series (Premium Compact)
- E-P7: Latest model (2021)
- E-P5: Previous generation – touch screen and tilting.
- Earlier models: E-P3, E-P2, E-P1 (no E-P4)

Key -F & -P features: Premium build, advanced controls, no built-in viewfinder

E-PL Series (“Lite” Models)
- E-PL10: Latest model
- Previous generations: E-PL9, E-PL8, E-PL7, E-PL6, E-PL5, E-PL3, E-PL2, E-PL1

Key PL features: More compact, tilting screens (later models), simplified controls

E-PM Series (“Mini” Models – Discontinued)
- E-PM2: Last model in this ultra-compact line
- E-PM1: First generation

Key PM features: Ultra-compact body, simplified controls.

Common Features Across the PEN Range:

Micro Four Thirds sensor and lens mount
Compact, stylish designs
In-body image stabilization (in most models)
Tilting touchscreens (in later models)
Wi-Fi connectivity (in later models)
Art Filters for creative effects

The PEN series is known for its compact size, retro styling, and balance of performance and portability. These cameras are particularly popular for street photography, travel, and as everyday carry cameras for enthusiasts. All PEN cameras fetch a good price on the used markets and are usually for sale from eBay, MPB and WEX.

Olympus XZ Range

The OlympusOlympus introduced its first camera in 1936, the Semi-Olympus I, fitted with the first Zuiko-branded lens. The first innovative camera series from Olympus was the Pen, launched in 1959. The half-frame format, allowing 72 pictures of 18 × 24 mm format on a standard 36-exposure roll of film, made Pen cameras compact and portable for their time. Pixel More XZ series of high-end compact cameras. Although this series has been discontinued, it was highly regarded in its time for offering advanced features in a compact body. The XZ series represented Olympus's effort to create a premium compact camera that could appeal to serious photographers. These cameras were notable for packing advanced features and high-quality optics into a relatively small body, making them popular choices for those wanting near-DSLR quality in a pocket-sized package.

10MP CCDA CCD (Charge-Coupled Device) is an integrated circuit containing an array of linked or coupled capacitors and it is one of two types of sensors used in digital cameras and other optical devices. The other one being CMOS. CCDs are considered to the older technology and although most current digital cameras use CMOS sensors they are still widely used and many photographers seek out older cameras with CCD sensors because of their colour and image characteristics. CCD image sensors are widely used in professional, medical, and scientific applications where high-quality image data is required CCDs use a global shutter, which exposes the entire image simultaneously. This can lead to blur if any motion occurs in the image during exposure, but a high shutter speed prevents this problem. Whereas CMOS sensors are equipped with ‘rolling shutters,’ which expose different parts of the frame at different points in time. This can lead to skew, wobble and partial exposure in photographs. CCD sensors create low noise images but consume 100 times more power than a similar CMOS sensor. More sensor
28-112mm equivalent f/1.8-2.5 lens
3-inch OLED screenManual controls with control ring around lens
RAWRAW is a file format that contains minimally processed data from the image sensor of a digital camera. RAW files are larger in size compared to JPEG files, as they retain all of the image data captured by the camera sensor without any compression. This allows for greater latitude in adjusting exposure, colour balance, and other image settings in post-processing, resulting in higher quality prints and digital images. One of the key advantages of shooting in RAW format is the ability to recover details in highlights and shadows that may be lost when shooting in JPEG format. Additionally, RAW files allow for non-destructive editing, meaning that changes can be made to the image without affecting the original image data. More shooting capability
Hot shoeA camera hot shoe is a metal bracket on the top of a camera that allows various accessories to be attached, such as external flashes, microphones, and other equipment. These accessories typically have a matching "foot" that slides into the hot shoe and makes a secure connection for communication and power transfer. They are used to connect flash guns, flash triggers, microphones (although the connections are usually not used and the microphone uses a microphone port), digital viewfinder, etc. More for external flash

12MP BSI CMOSA CMOS (Complementary Metal–Oxide–Semiconductor) is a type of metal–oxide–semiconductor that is one of two types of sensors used in digital cameras, the other being CCD. CMOS sensors are equipped with “rolling shutters,” which expose different parts of the frame at different points in time. This can lead to skew, wobble, and partial exposure in photographs. However, neither technology is a clear winner over the other in overall image quality. CMOS sensors consume around 100 times less power than equivalent CCD sensors leading to longer battery life. CMOS cameras are now more popular and currently used in most modern digital cameras. CMOS sensors can be fabricated on a standard silicon production line and are therefore less expensive compared to CCD sensors. More sensor
28-112mm equivalent f/1.8-2.5 lens
3-inch tilting touchscreen LCD
Manual controls with control ring around lens
Improved image processor1080p video recording
RAWRAW is a file format that contains minimally processed data from the image sensor of a digital camera. RAW files are larger in size compared to JPEG files, as they retain all of the image data captured by the camera sensor without any compression. This allows for greater latitude in adjusting exposure, colour balance, and other image settings in post-processing, resulting in higher quality prints and digital images. One of the key advantages of shooting in RAW format is the ability to recover details in highlights and shadows that may be lost when shooting in JPEG format. Additionally, RAW files allow for non-destructive editing, meaning that changes can be made to the image without affecting the original image data. More shooting capability
Hot shoeA camera hot shoe is a metal bracket on the top of a camera that allows various accessories to be attached, such as external flashes, microphones, and other equipment. These accessories typically have a matching "foot" that slides into the hot shoe and makes a secure connection for communication and power transfer. They are used to connect flash guns, flash triggers, microphones (although the connections are usually not used and the microphone uses a microphone port), digital viewfinder, etc. More for external flash

Target Audience:

Enthusiast photographers
Professionals looking for a compact backup camera
Those wanting DSLR-like controls in a pocket-sized camera

Strengths of the XZ Series:

Excellent image quality for a compact camera
Very bright lens, especially at wide angle
Robust build quality
Advanced features typically found in larger cameras

The XZ series competed with other high-end compacts like the Canon S series and PanasonicPanasonic K. K. (was: Matsushita Electric Industrial) is a Japanese company that uses the brand name Panasonic for its electronic devices, including digital cameras and analogue cameras in the past. Panasonic also use the brand Lumix. More LX series. It was known for its exceptionally bright lens and good low-light performance. While the XZ series was discontinued, many of its features and design philosophy influenced later OlympusOlympus introduced its first camera in 1936, the Semi-Olympus I, fitted with the first Zuiko-branded lens. The first innovative camera series from Olympus was the Pen, launched in 1959. The half-frame format, allowing 72 pictures of 18 × 24 mm format on a standard 36-exposure roll of film, made Pen cameras compact and portable for their time. Pixel More compact cameras and even some aspects of their mirrorlessTechnically speaking most DSLR, point-and-shoot and smartphone cameras are mirrorless, in that they don’t have internal mirrors. However, mirrorless camera is a specific term for a camera where the sensor is directly exposed to light and the photographer has a preview of the potential image at all times to view on an electronic viewfinder. For example the Olympus and Panasonic micro four-thirds cameras are mirrorless. More lineup