Olympus E-PL5 In 2025: $200 Pocket Sized Beast!
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Introduction
If you’re on the hunt for a small, lightweight, and travel-friendly mirrorless camera for around $200, the Olympus E-PL5 (released in 2012) deserves a serious look. Boasting a Micro Four Thirds sensor, in-body stabilization, and a tilting touchscreen, this pocket-sized camera delivers more than you’d expect from its size and age. Below, we’ll break down its features, performance, and who should consider picking one up.
Key Specs & Features
- Sensor: 16MP Micro Four Thirds (2x crop factor)
- Lens Mount: Micro Four Thirds (MFT) — broad lens selection at multiple price points
- Video: 1080p at 30 fps
- Stabilization: In-body stabilization (IBIS), pairs with lens-based IS if available
- Burst Shooting: 8 fps, surprisingly fast for its class
- Screen: 3-inch tilting touchscreen (not fully articulating)
- No Built-In Viewfinder: Optional external EVF can be purchased
- Weight: ~325g, extremely compact
At around $180–$200 on the used market, the E-PL5 is a budget-friendly way to enter the MFT ecosystem, known for its variety of affordable and compact lenses.
Design & Handling
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Pocketable Build
- The E-PL5 is truly tiny. Perfect for travel or everyday carry when you don’t want a bulky DSLR.
- The grip is minimal, so be mindful if you prefer a more substantial handhold.
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Tilt Touchscreen
- Flips up for a selfie-style (though not fully flipping forward) or down for high-angle shots.
- The touch menu and AF selection make for quick operation, though it’s not the highest resolution display.
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No Viewfinder
- You’ll rely on the rear screen unless you invest in an optional EVF attachment (plugs into the hot shoe).
- Outdoors in bright light, manual focusing or checking exposure can be tricky on the screen alone.
Image Quality & Performance
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16MP MFT Sensor
- Delivers vibrant Olympus color and decent dynamic range, typical of MFT cameras at the time.
- 16MP is ample for everyday photography, from social sharing to moderate prints.
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Burst Rate: 8 fps
- This is impressively fast for a camera of its era and price.
- Ideal for capturing action or quick sequences in a compact form.
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In-Body Stabilization
- A significant advantage over older, budget APS-C or DSLR rivals where you rely on lens-based IS.
- Helps with handheld low-light shots and mild motion in video.
Video Capabilities
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1080p at 30 fps
- Enough for basic usage—vlogs, casual clips, or family videos.
- The E-PL5 lacks advanced manual controls and no external mic jack, so your audio options and control are limited.
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Autofocus in Video
- The contrast-detect AF is decent but not as advanced as modern mirrorless cameras.
- May hunt or be slower in low-light.
Verdict on Video:
Serviceable, but not a standout. Great for quick home videos, but smartphone or a more recent camera might yield better ease-of-use and 4K.
Lens Ecosystem
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Micro Four Thirds Mount
- One of the broadest selections of native lenses—small primes, zooms, and even adapters for legacy glass.
- MFT lenses tend to be compact and relatively affordable, consistent with the camera’s portability theme.
Pros & Cons
Pros
- Extremely Compact — Slips into a jacket pocket or small bag.
- In-Body Stabilization — Rare in cameras at this price, aids both stills and video.
- Tilting Touchscreen — Easy to navigate menus and pick AF points.
- Affordable MFT Lenses — Great variety, many lightweight and budget-friendly.
- 8 fps Burst — Surprising speed for capturing fast moments.
Cons
- No Built-In Viewfinder — Can be tricky in bright sunlight.
- Limited Video Features — 1080p30, no mic input or advanced controls.
- Controls & Menu — Some find it finicky; limited external dials.
- Small Grip — Might feel cramped for bigger hands or longer shooting sessions.
Who Should Buy It?
- Travelers & Street Photographers: Low-profile design, pocket-size, and in-body IS make it ideal for discreet shooting.
- Beginners on a Budget: Excellent sensor, decent AF, and easy lens upgrades with MFT.
- Vintage Lens Adapters: MFT’s short flange distance plus IBIS means old manual lenses work great.
Who Might Skip It
- Serious Videographers: Stuck at 1080p with limited audio options.
- Needing a Viewfinder: If you want a built-in EVF, consider other MFT bodies like the Olympus OM-D series.
Conclusion
In 2025, the Olympus E-PL5 remains an enticing option for under $200, combining a capable 16MP MFT sensor, fast burst rate, and in-body stabilization in a body small enough to go everywhere. While the lack of a viewfinder or advanced video features might turn off some, those seeking a truly compact photography workhorse or a stepping stone into the Micro Four Thirds world will find the E-PL5 a hidden gem. If you value portability and don’t need cutting-edge specs, it’s well worth the small investment.