Olympus E-P1

Reviews

Review Index – (updated 27 January’10)

ePhotozine (As compared to the Panasonic Lumix DMC-Gf1)
“What Panasonic have produced is a camera that gives a sharper focus, has more features and has a built-in flash. This might not seem much but if you’re using the viewfinder accessory, then you’re using the hot-shoe and flash isn’t an option on the Olympus E-P1. At least with the Panasonic, you have more diversity of the built-in flash.”

AmateurPhotographer
“My main concern, basically, is that in many ways Olympus is selling the camera short with poorly thought-out firmware. Imagine, for example, that someone with a reasonable amount of experience with high-end digital cameras has picked up and is using the E-P1 for the first time.”
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H2HReviews (As Compared to the Olympus E-620)
“The E-P1 costs a hundred dollars more than the $699 E-620, but does not include some of the accessories that make the camera stellar – my favorite being the pancake lens. That cute, tiny lens will put you back another $299. The E-P1’s Micro Four Thirds standard makes the camera very portable, but also means that it isn’t compatible with very many lenses because the standard is so new. You can purchase an adapter to attach Four Thirds lenses, but they make for really bulky handling and you lose the convenience of having a portable camera.”

Shutterbug
This camera is loaded with a ton of features it ripped off from the E series SLRs and as the reviewer noted they make the E-P1 a very powerful compact camera. With in-body stabilization, a wonderful dust reduction system and the infamous art filters you just can’t go wrong. One really cool feature is you can the Art Filters to any video clip so for YouTube you can do some very creative stuff.

MacWorld
For the person who owns a DSLR and wants a second camera with more horsepower than a point-and-shoot but still fits in the pocket this just might be the camera. During tests the auto focus was slow but on the upside the photo quality was really good. The reviewer suggests you check out the interface before you lay your money down though.
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Photoxels
Bottom line – snag the E-P1 if you’re after the photo quality of a DSLR but you want a compact and easy to use camera. Sure there has been some negative press but the reviewer suggests you take the camera for a test drive. Just forget what you’ve read and try the darn thing. But be aware, leave your credit card at home, because if you don’t you’ll probably walk out of the store with new E-P1!

RegHardware
“For one thing this camera is just too large for folks interested in upgrading. No flash. Now this is going to be a real problem for a lot of people who might have bought it otherwise. Compared to full DSLR the E-P1 does not offer that large of a size advantage and the fact that it does not have a viewfinder will probably end a ot of potential sales.”
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CameraLabs
“Bottom line – the slightly delayed focusing, middles of the road screen resolution and no onboard flash deny the E-P1 from receiving our top recommendation, but it still is a great camera, and depending on your personality could be the camera you have always been looking for. Micro Four Thirds is also creating lots of excitement in the digital photography world and we are curious how it will mature.”
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DPS
“You get all the advantages of digital without the bulk of a DSLRa. The camera is small while the lens is compact and lightweight.
II’m not so thrilled with the LCD being the sole viewfinder, unless you’re using the 17m lens with its associated optical finder: in bright sun the LCD screen is practically useless, with the focusing indicators rendered.”

PCAuthority
“The shutter lag is frustrating, though, it isn’t quite as compact as we’d truly like, and then of course there’s the price. In short, it isn’t the ideal universal travel camera, but if you’ve been waiting for a true rangefinder-style digital at a vaguely sensible price, the PEN E-P1 fits the bill.”
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PopPhoto
“What’s Hot: High-resolution, color-accurate images. Low noise up to ISO 800 and usable images at ISO 1600. Head-turning, retrostyle design.
What’s Not: No built-in flash or optical viewfinder. Sluggish autofocus, especially in low light. Micro Four Thirds lens selection is limited, but growing”

DPExpert
“We fell in love with the E-P1 the moment we took it from the box. So we bought one! We know that for years we have been advising readers not to buy cameras without proper viewfinders, and now look what we’ve done. Well, we were right – an LCD is no substitute. It is morning, and we still love her, but we are not blind to her flaws. She is gorgeous but cranky and demands that we do it her way. When was love ever any different?”

WhatDigitalCamera
“Without making too much of a song and dance about it, the E-P1’s video mode is fairly impressive. Though it won’t tempt movie connoisseurs, as it offers only 720p high definition and no audio input, the results still look impressive, and can be output at 1080i if required. Plus, the ability to use the Art Filters, aperture priority and shutter priority for video means you can still get creative.”
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ImagingResource
“But the Olympus E-P1 with the 17mm lens hits the right spots for this photographer: great still image performance, very usable high ISO images, good optical quality, a prime lens with more to come, easy portability, and a certain charm that makes you want to take pictures. Hard to beat that. The Olympus E-P1 is a revolutionary design, and a Dave’s Pick.”

DxOMark
“Image quality results for the E-P1 are almost identical in performance compared with the Olympus E-30, which uses the same LiveMOS sensor.”

TechRadar
“Olympus seems to have made great strides with the other one-time weakness of Four Thirds sensors – high-ISO performance. Admittedly, the E-P1’s ISO 6400 maximum is a step too far, and it’s a bit dodgy at ISO 3200 too, but at ISO 1600 it’s very good by any standards.”
Rating:  

Adorama
“They have delivered a game-changing camera that may not be for everybody but if the size, shape, and ability to use so many different kinds of lenses, from Olympus and many others appeals to you, as it does to me, you’ll want an E-P1.”

Ken Rockwell
” I’d get an E-P1 to take anywhere to shoot anything that holds reasonably still. Unlike pocket cameras, the Olympus E-P1 is reasonably competent for shooting slowly-moving subjects. You’ll still want an SLR for moving kids, action or sports, however the E-P1 is much faster for this than any fixed-lens pocket camera.”

DigicamReview
” The Olympus PEN E-P1 really is a ground breaking, genius product, with a gorgeous metal body that fits in your pocket, compact lenses that retract inside themselves, and image quality and features to rival some of the best Digital SLRs. It not only lives up to the hype surrounding the product, but in my opinion, exceeds expectations, and is well worth the seemingly expensive outlay. Highly Recommended!”
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ByTom
“The problem is that, without fixing all the little details, the Olympus E-P1 is very vulnerable to competition. I’m betting that the Panasonic GF1 doesn’t have the same problems, which is bad news for Olympus fans. So Olympus needs to get the E-P2 out quickly, and they need to address all the little things that are wrong with their initial offering. First to market is only good if you can protect the position. It’s unclear to me if Olympus can or will.”
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PDN Gear Guide
“Both the Sigma DP2 and the Olympus EP-1 deserve kudos for coming out ahead of the big boys— Canon and Nikon—and trying to meet those challenges but, in the end, these two cameras are a letdown. Of the two models, the EP-1 is definitely the superior camera and is being offered for about the same price. While it’s a beautiful looking camera with a first-rate HD video feature with fantastic sound, the frustratingly slow autofocus speed and its image noise issue at ISO 800 and above will limit where and when you’ll want to use the EP-1.”

Shutterbug
“Shooting scenes with both highlights and shadows can often be dicey because of the extreme contrast between dark and bright areas. The E-P1 addresses this challenge with Shadow Adjustment Technology that adjusts for extreme light variations and maintains visible detail in both the shadow and highlight areas of the scene.”

PhotographyBay
“Yes, it handles noise decently and produces solid images; however, there’s a lot more that goes into the process. We need a competent and reliable autofocus system in order to make sure we capture the moment. If you aren’t going to take photos of living subjects, I suppose you could make the Olympus E-P1 work for you. Alternatively, if you want to look cool and have people compliment you on how cool your camera is, you should check this camera out.”

LetsGoDigital
“However, contrary to all the rational thoughts, there is the feeling the camera gives you. In a way, you can’t but love this camera. There is something very special about this camera. Not only its appearance, but something that simply cannot be explained. Don’t ask me why, but the Olympus E-P1 will challenge you again and again to take pictures. Not because you should, but because it is that much fun.”
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DigitalCameraInfo
“The E-P1 combines an intelligent Auto mode that attempts to recognize the scene before you and match it up to a preset scene mode with the traditional program, aperture-priority, shutter-priority and manual shooting modes. Newbies will welcome the wide array of scene modes provided and, while they seemed irretrievably goofy when we first encountered them, the Art Filter effects have grown on us a bit.”

DigitalCameraReview
“On one hand I can’t tell you how happy I am to see the return of the Olympus “Pen” series to the world of digital photography. On the other, I can’t tell you how frustratingly slow this camera is if you’re used to the speed of a DSLR. Despite this fundamental flaw, the E-P1 makes a superb photographic tool for photographers who are willing to take their time with photography. If you’re not trying to grab snapshots of running children or motor sports then the E-P1 proves to be a capable camera.”

Wired
“Manual focusing is confusing and difficult without an optical viewfinder. Autofocus not entirely reliable. No included flash. Maximum aperture of f3.5 in the kit lens is disappointing. Kit lens requires a manual “press and twist” maneuver to extend it into shooting position. Recorded sound is so-so; internal microphone will also pick up whirring from the lens if you zoom in and out. Camera is a bit bulky with lens attached.”
Rating:  

DCResource
“Here’s the easiest way for me to summarize my thoughts on the Olympus E-P1: If you’re taking action shots, consider something else. If you’re not, then it’s absolutely worth a look. The combination of size, style, photo quality, and features is hard to beat. Just like with the pioneering E-330 three years ago, if you can live with the E-P1’s trade offs then you’ll find that it’s a fun and capable interchangeable lens camera.”

DPInterface
“I think E-P1 is a niche camera for street shooters and those who NEED to travel light; at least for now with its premium price tag. For the same price, one can get the ‘dual lens kit’ for the Olympus E620, which is almost the same camera with better overall value, improved more-SLR-like ergonomics, a flip-out and rotate LCD and faster performance, but minus the ‘cool’ factor and movie mode of the E-P1. So you need to know what you’re doing before swiping the plastic for the Olympus E-P1.”

The New York Times
“You take a few pictures, and now you’re certifiably in love: they are spectacular. There’s a clarity of light, an almost molecular level of detail, a perfection of color in some of the shots that make you giddy. The camera does just incredibly well with skin tones, close-ups, nature colors — these photos knock your socks off.”

Dantestella
“Maybe Olympus has some better, more compact, more functional version of a Micro Four-Thirds camera around the corner – but it might be better to wait for now. The E-P1, as currently configured, looks too expensive and inflexible to be an “intermediate” camera and neither functional nor small enough to be a compact for serious photographers. It certainly does not evoke Olympus’ history of brilliant engineering and execution. If you can read this, Olympus, let’s see an improved E-P2 on the next go-round.”

DPReview
“It’s easy to come up with a list of reasons not to buy one; the slow focus, the dime-store screen, the lack of built-in flash, the paucity of Micro Four Thirds lenses, the unimpressive ‘iAuto’ mode, not to mention the fact that Panasonic could – and probably will – produce something that fixes half these problems at some point by making a compact version of the GH1.”
Rating:  

Photo Review
“Sadly, the E-P1 also fails to meet its promise in critical areas like interface design, auto focusing performance and failure to include important items most photographers require (viewfinder, flash) in the camera body.”
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Imaging Resource
“The Olympus E-P1 is an interesting and innovative camera, and as a first model in what will probably be a series it has some very nice features. Build quality and finish are of an exceptionally high standard, and image quality and performance are safely superior to the vast majority of compact cameras. However the enormous cost compared to a good DSLR, and the lack of either a viewfinder or built-in flash will put many people off.”
Rating:  

The Online Photographer
“I applaud Olympus’s PEN E-P1. The camera world is badly in need of new ideas even if they’re not entirely new. Taking advantage of the PEN’s 50th anniversary was an inspiration that has injected welcome excitement into the camera marketplace, rather like the 2006 introduction of the Leica M8. Relatively few people can, or are willing to, spring for Leica’s pricey digital rangefinder. But the E-P1 is within reach of a broad segment of photo enthusiasts and is reportedly already selling very well.”

PCMag
“Despite its slow focusing, the Olympus E-P1 offers one of the best all-in-one experiences for photographers looking to balance size, image quality, HD video, portability and nostalgia. If Olympus could improve focusing speeds and video performance to match Panasonic’s Micro Four Thirds Lumix GH1, they’d have a flat out winner.”
Rating:  

Video Tour @ DigitalRev

GoodGearGuide
“Overall, the Olympus Pen E-P1 is a great unit that’s ideal for users who want a compact camera that can also be used with interchangeable lenses. We like its picture quality for the most part, and its grainy film mode in particular. It’s the ideal camera for travellers or anyone who just wants an inconspicuous camera that can be used with a variety of lenses. We like it a little more than Panasonic’s LUMIX DMC-G1K Micro Four Thirds-based camera.”
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LapTopMag
“If you want the image quality of a DSLR along with a more compact design (and can afford to pay a premium), this camera is a compelling choice. The E-P1 is also a smart buy for serious photographers looking for something smaller than a DSLR but more advanced than a point-and-shoot.”
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CNET Asia
“Looks aside, the Olympus snapper offers plenty of creative options for enthusiasts. But the lack of an onboard flash may put some users off, so this is something Olympus may want to look into this for future models.”
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PhotographyBlog
“This is a very appealing and refreshingly different camera that does indeed combine the best features of compact and DSLR cameras. It’s not a pocketable camera by any means, contrary to how Olympus are marketing it, but it is small and unobtrusive enough to carry over a shoulder without attracting too much attention. The EP-1 represents a significant upgrade for compact owners who don’t want the bulk of a DSLR, and a great second camera for DSLR users who want something smaller without sacrificing image quality, ultimately satisfying the needs of both groups.”
Rating:  

Photocrati
“The E-P1 system is great as a compact alternative to a DSLR for occasions when you don’t want to lug a heavy camera bag. By next year, additional lenses will be introduced and those will provide even more versatility. Granted, there are a few issues (such as low light AF performance and a lack of a viewfinder and built-in flash) but the favorable aspects outweigh those, in my estimation.”

Pocket-lint
“True this camera will be neither fish nor fowl to some, who may not be able to see the point. However, others that may hanker for that “days of yore” feeling, evoked by the styling, design and handling will not be disappointed. As for me? Well, I was won over by the image quality and that at the end of the day is probably the single most important factor and so makes this a camera one I cannot help but recommend.”
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CNET
“I can’t really recommend the E-P1 to folks upgrading from a point-and-shoot, since the biggest motivation there, in addition to wanting better low-light photos, tends to be a desire for better performance to shoot kids, pets and sports. On the latter count, unfortunately, the E-P1 simply doesn’t deliver.”
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DigicamReview
“The Olympus PEN E-P1 really is a ground breaking, genius product, with a gorgeous metal body that fits in your pocket, compact lenses that retract inside themselves, and image quality and features to rival some of the best Digital SLRs. It not only lives up to the hype surrounding the product, but in my opinion, exceeds expectations, and is well worth the seemingly expensive outlay. Highly Recommended!”
Rating:  

T3
“The Olympus E-P1 is a brilliant-looking camera, and possibly the best example so far of what the Micro Four Thirds technology is capable of. While many will baulk at the price of the camera it does have the right amount of technology to back up its worth and will no doubt tempt new users to the ‘grown-up camera’ brigade. The retro revolution starts here.”
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Steve’s Digicams
“I feel Olympus has hit a home run with their new PEN series model. While there are a few things that I feel could be better (shooting performance, low-light AF performance, etc.), the list of positive aspects of this camera far out weight the negatives. With the ability to capture beautiful photos, a host of creative still and video options, pleasing HD video quality, and various accessory options, the E-P1 is one well-rounded digital camera.”

OutbackPhoto
“To our surprise even AF works. AF is slower than with the kit lens but still usable. The only issue we see is that this lens is too big for the small body to balance well. We hope Olympus makes this zoom also for m4/3.”

Engadget
“Obviously some of the detracting factors here should give pause before you put down your $799 for the basic kit, but you should know that there are also a lot of really outstanding features and impressive performance packed into this small and extremely attractive package. The E-P1 would be an excellent pick for anyone getting serious about photography who wants something easy to use, but still powerful enough to take really striking pictures and video.”

Biofos (First Impressions)
“As both a concept and a product the E-P1 is simply stunning. This is a bold and courageous move from Olympus and I for one feel confident that it will be rewarded by the market. The E-P1 is a refreshing change from all the ‘also ran’ DSLR black bodies and the boring oblong boxes of the compact world that look like mobile phones.”

The Online Photographer (First Take)
“E-P1 surprised me pleasantly in lots of shots. Yes, the contrast is a bit too strong for my taste. Everything else is very nice. My favorite, though, is the vertical shot of the model in pink bikini. Out-of-camera JPEG, not the lightest compression, I misfocused, she had her eyes almost closed and the photo might benefit from a tiny little increase in exposure…”

CNET Asia (First Take Preview)
“The Micro Four Thirds shooter is using a new imaging processor, the TruePic V engine, which was developed for the new snapper. According to Olympus, the new chip will deliver clearer pictures even at high ISO sensitivities, by removing noise without smudging details in the shot.”

Imaging Resource (Hands On Preview)
“First, the Olympus E-P1’s image quality won’t be held to the standard of bigger, heavier digital SLRs; even when it is compared — which it will be — people will make allowances for any shortcomings they see; if they see any at all. Second, there are so many advantages to a camera of this size that Olympus can’t help but attract new users on that fact alone.”

LetsGoDigital (Hands On Preview)
“This is not a speed monster, but a model that is based on a platform that gives life to an entire new camera segment, created by Olympus. In my opinion, the Olympus E-P1 is only the first of many possible models. A camera that will win a photographer’s heart in no-time, designed from a historically rich photography past.”

DPReview (Hands On Preview)
“Perfect it ain’t, but when we first saw the E-P1 we couldn’t have been happier, and we just wanted to run off with it and start taking pictures.”

DigitalCameraReview (Hands On Preview)
“For the E-P1, Olympus went back to the drawing board, or at least, back to the filing cabinet. Vintage camera nuts will immediately recognize the aesthetic influence of Olympus’s classic Pen F – a half-frame 35mm camera from the middle of the last century, and one of the manufacturer’s early attempts at miniaturization – in the converging body lines of the E-P1’s top panel.”