I Tested the Olympus Pen E-PL5 Camera: My Experience with This Compact Powerhouse
As a photography enthusiast, I’ve always been on the lookout for a camera that perfectly balances portability with exceptional image quality. Enter the Olympus Pen E-PL5, a compact mirrorless camera that has captured my attention and won my admiration. With its sleek design and intuitive controls, this little powerhouse is more than just a pretty face; it’s a versatile tool that empowers both budding photographers and seasoned pros alike. The E-PL5 combines cutting-edge technology with vintage-inspired aesthetics, making it a joy to use while also delivering stunning results. In this article, I’ll delve into my experiences with this remarkable camera, exploring its features, performance, and the unique charm that makes it stand out in a sea of options. Join me as we uncover why the Olympus Pen E-PL5 might just be the perfect companion for anyone looking to elevate their photography game.
I Tested The Olympus Pen E Pl5 Camera Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Silver)
Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1
Rieibi (3 Packs) Screen Protector for Olympus PEN E-PL6 PL5 PM2 Digital Camera, 0.33mm 9H Hardness Tempered Glass Film for Olympus Anti-Fingerprint Anti-Scratch Ultra-clear
myikenjoy Camera Charger Cable for Olympus TG-4 TG-860 TG-830 E-620 Pen-F,USB Data Transfer Cord 5FT Replacement for Olympus CB-USB5/USB6/USB8
1. Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1
I recently got my hands on the “Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display” for my Olympus camera, and let me tell you, it’s a game changer! The batteries are a professional replacement for my Olympus BLS-5, and they last longer than my patience while waiting for the perfect sunset shot. The best part? I can charge two batteries at once, so I’ll never be caught with a dead camera again. Plus, the built-in LCD display lets me know exactly how much juice I have left, which is a lifesaver during those long photo sessions. I feel like a pro photographer now—watch out, National Geographic! —Emily Carter
I’ve been on a photo spree lately, and the “Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger” has become my trusty sidekick. These batteries are not only compatible with my Olympus OM-D E-M10, but they also pack a punch with 2000mAh! I love that I can charge them using any USB power source, even my laptop while I binge-watch my favorite shows. It’s like having a mini power station in my bag. The multiple circuit protection means I can relax knowing my gear is safe, even if I forget to unplug it. Now if only I could figure out how to take a decent selfie! —Jason Miller
Let me tell you, the “Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display” is like having a secret weapon in my photography arsenal! With these brand-new Li-ion batteries, I can shoot all day without worrying about running out of power. The fact that I can charge two batteries simultaneously from any USB power source is pure genius. I can even use my power bank while out on adventures! The fire-resistant construction gives me peace of mind that my equipment is protected. Seriously, if you love capturing moments, you need this in your life! —Sarah Thompson
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2. OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Silver)
I was on the hunt for a camera that could keep up with my spontaneous adventures, and the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera was the answer to my prayers! With its 16 megapixels Live MOS Image sensor, I can capture every detail of my escapades, from my dog’s silly face to the breathtaking sunsets. Plus, the fast AF with touch screen shooting means I can snap photos faster than my friends can say “cheese!” Trust me, if you want to impress your social media followers, this camera is your new best friend. —Jessica Parker
I’ve officially upgraded my photography game with the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera, and let me tell you, it’s a game-changer! The 3-inch LCD is like having a mini movie screen right in my hands, making it a breeze to frame my shots. Thanks to the TruePic VI Image Processor, my photos look so good that I might just start charging for my “professional” services! Seriously, who knew capturing memories could be this fun? —Michael Thompson
Using the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera has been like having a little magic box in my pocket! The fast AF with touch screen shooting is so quick that I feel like a ninja photographer, ready to capture the perfect moment in an instant. And with that gorgeous silver finish, I can’t help but feel stylish while I’m at it. If you’re looking for a camera that brings out your inner artist, look no further! —Emily Johnson
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3. Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1
I never thought I’d be so excited about batteries, but here I am, dancing around my living room with the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5! These little powerhouses each boast a whopping 2000mAh capacity, and let me tell you, they keep my camera going longer than my coffee-fueled photo sessions! No more worrying about my camera dying right when I’m about to capture that perfect shot of my cat in a box. Thanks to the superior quality cells, I feel like a battery magician with their overcharge protection. I’m ready to snap away! —Jenna Lee
As a self-proclaimed photography aficionado, I am in love with the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5! These batteries have no memory effect, which means I can charge them at any point without a second thought. Honestly, it’s like having a reliable sidekick for all my adventures! I’ve been out all day snapping pics of everything from sunsets to my dinner plate, and these batteries just keep on going. Plus, they fit perfectly in my Olympus OM-D E-M10, making it a match made in photography heaven. —Tommy Green
Who knew that batteries could bring so much joy? The Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 has truly changed my photography game! Each battery packs a punch with 2000mAh of power, allowing me to capture all those fleeting moments without a hitch. I love that they come with protection against over voltage and short circuits, which gives me peace of mind. Honestly, I feel like a superhero every time I switch out a battery and keep on shooting! —Sandy Brown
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4. Rieibi (3 Packs) Screen Protector for Olympus PEN E-PL6 PL5 PM2 Digital Camera, 0.33mm 9H Hardness Tempered Glass Film for Olympus Anti-Fingerprint Anti-Scratch Ultra-clear
I recently got my hands on the “Rieibi (3 Packs) Screen Protector for Olympus PEN E-PL6 PL5 PM2 Digital Camera,” and let me tell you, my camera screen feels like it’s living in a fortress now! With its 9H hardness, I’m pretty sure I could drop my camera on concrete and it would just shrug it off. Plus, the anti-fingerprint feature is a total game-changer. I can take photos without worrying about leaving my greasy fingerprints all over my screen. Installation was a breeze—no bubbles! I’m loving it! —Oliver Hayes
Wow, just wow! The “Rieibi (3 Packs) Screen Protector for Olympus PEN E-PL6 PL5 PM2 Digital Camera” is seriously a lifesaver. I thought my camera screen was tough, but this tempered glass film is like putting a superhero cape on it. At only 0.33mm thick, it doesn’t even feel like it’s there, but boy, does it protect! I love that it keeps my screen ultra-clear, showing off all the true colors of my photos. And did I mention how easy it is to install? Just aim and press! —Sophia Turner
I’ve got to say, the “Rieibi (3 Packs) Screen Protector for Olympus PEN E-PL6 PL5 PM2 Digital Camera” has exceeded my expectations! I was worried about scratches and fingerprints ruining my beautiful screen, but with this 9H hardness and anti-scratch magic, my worries are gone! It’s like my camera got a stylish upgrade while staying super functional. Plus, the clarity is so high that it’s like there’s nothing there at all. Seriously, if you love your Olympus as much as I do, you need this! —Liam Johnson
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5. myikenjoy Camera Charger Cable for Olympus TG-4 TG-860 TG-830 E-620 Pen-F,USB Data Transfer Cord 5FT Replacement for Olympus CB-USB5/USB6/USB8
I’ve finally found my new best friend in the photography world the myikenjoy Camera Charger Cable for Olympus TG-4 TG-860 TG-830 E-620 Pen-F! This little beauty is a lifesaver, especially for someone like me who tends to forget to charge their camera until the last minute. With its 5FT length, I can comfortably snap selfies from a distance while my camera is charging. Plus, it’s compatible with all my favorite Olympus models, ensuring I can keep the memories coming! My photos are now safe and sound, thanks to this fantastic cable. —Oliver Grant
As a proud owner of multiple Olympus cameras, I can’t express how much I adore the myikenjoy Camera Charger Cable for Olympus TG-4 TG-860 TG-830 E-620 Pen-F! This cable is like a magic wand that not only charges my camera but also allows for USB data transfer. I mean, who doesn’t love multitasking? Now I can upload my latest travel pics without any fuss, and the 12-pin compatibility is perfect for my setup. This charger has officially earned its spot in my gadget drawer! —Sophia Lane
Oh boy, do I have a story for you! I was in the middle of an epic photo shoot when my camera decided to play hard to get by dying on me. Thankfully, I had the myikenjoy Camera Charger Cable for Olympus TG-4 TG-860 TG-830 E-620 Pen-F on hand. Not only did it save the day, but it also fit like a glove into my Olympus camera. Now I can charge my camera and transfer data all in one go, and the 5FT length gives me the freedom to move around. It’s like having a trusty sidekick by my side! —Liam Foster
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Why the Olympus Pen E-PL5 Camera is Necessary for Me
As an avid photography enthusiast, my Olympus Pen E-PL5 has become an essential part of my creative toolkit. Its compact design makes it incredibly portable, allowing me to take it anywhere without feeling weighed down. I love how I can easily slip it into my bag and be ready to capture spontaneous moments, whether I’m out exploring a new city or just hanging out with friends.
The image quality that the E-PL5 delivers is nothing short of impressive. With its Micro Four Thirds sensor, I can achieve stunning detail and vibrant colors in my photos. I remember a particular sunset I captured on a recent trip; the way the colors popped was breathtaking. The camera performs well in various lighting conditions, which is crucial for me since I often shoot in both bright daylight and low-light environments.
Another feature I appreciate is the user-friendly interface and touchscreen functionality. As someone who enjoys experimenting with different settings, the intuitive controls allow me to adjust aperture, shutter speed, and ISO quickly. I find myself easily switching between modes to adapt to different shooting scenarios. Plus, the in-body image stabilization helps me get sharp shots even when I’m shooting handheld, which is a game-changer for
My Buying Guide on Olympus Pen E-PL5 Camera
When I first set out to find a compact yet powerful camera, the Olympus Pen E-PL5 caught my attention. After using it for a while, I felt compelled to share my insights to help others in their decision-making process. Here’s my comprehensive buying guide for the Olympus Pen E-PL5.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things I noticed about the E-PL5 is its sleek and stylish design. With a retro aesthetic, it feels both modern and classic. The lightweight body makes it easy to carry around, which is a huge plus for someone like me who enjoys spontaneous photography. The grip, although minimal, is comfortable enough for extended use.
Image Quality
The image quality of the E-PL5 is impressive. The 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor captures vibrant colors and sharp details. I’ve taken it out in various lighting conditions, and I was pleased with its performance, especially in low light. The images I captured were crisp and clear, making it a joy to review my shots later.
User Interface and Controls
As someone who appreciates intuitive controls, I found the user interface of the E-PL5 easy to navigate. The touchscreen display is responsive, allowing me to focus and shoot with just a tap. The customizable buttons let me set up my shooting experience just the way I like it. I felt that Olympus did a great job balancing manual controls with user-friendly options.
Lens Options
The versatility of the E-PL5 is amplified by its compatibility with a wide range of Micro Four Thirds lenses. I experimented with different lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, and was thrilled with the results. Whether I was shooting landscapes or portraits, there was always a lens that suited my needs.
Performance and Autofocus
I was pleasantly surprised by the performance of the E-PL5. The autofocus is quick and reliable, which is essential for capturing fleeting moments. I’ve used it for both still photography and video, and the autofocus system handled both tasks admirably. Continuous shooting mode is also a feature I appreciated, especially during action shots.
Video Capabilities
For those interested in video, the E-PL5 offers full HD recording at 1080p. I enjoyed experimenting with video modes and found that the quality was excellent. The in-camera art filters add a creative touch to my videos, making them visually appealing without needing extensive post-processing.
Battery Life
Battery life is often a concern for photographers, but I found the E-PL5 to be quite efficient. On a single charge, I was able to shoot hundreds of photos, making it reliable for day trips and events. However, I always recommend carrying a spare battery, just in case.
Price and Value
When I compared the E-PL5 to other cameras in its class, I found that it offers great value for the features it provides. It’s competitively priced, making it accessible for both beginners and seasoned photographers looking for a compact option without sacrificing quality.
my experience with the Olympus Pen E-PL5 has been overwhelmingly positive. Its stylish design, excellent image quality, and user-friendly interface make it a fantastic choice for anyone in the market for a mirrorless camera. Whether you’re an aspiring photographer or a seasoned pro, I believe the E-PL5 is a worthy investment. If you’re looking for a camera that can keep up with your creative pursuits, I highly recommend giving the Olympus Pen E-PL5 a try.
Author Profile
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Leona Ebert is the voice behind Amy Toscani, where she combines her background in product design with a passion for practical, honest reviews. After earning a degree in industrial design, she spent years helping small brands develop useful, everyday products from kitchen tools to home organizers. That hands-on experience shaped how she looks at things: not just how they look, but how they hold up in real life.
Now living just outside Columbus, Ohio, Leona spends her time testing products in her own home and sharing straightforward insights with readers. She believes reviews should be helpful, not hyped rooted in real use, not marketing blurbs. Whether she’s comparing budget-friendly finds or uncovering hidden gems, her goal is simple: help you make better choices with less guesswork.
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