The OM System OM-5 might not be the newest mirrorless camera on the market in 2025, but it remains one of the most compelling options for photographers who prioritize portability, ruggedness, and advanced features.
With camera technology advancing rapidly, it’s easy to be tempted by the latest and greatest models. However, not every photographer needs the newest flagship. The OM System OM-5 continues to deliver exceptional performance, especially for those who love travel, adventure, and creative photography.
No matter if you’re a seasoned pro looking for a lightweight backup camera or an enthusiast seeking a powerful yet compact system, the OM System OM-5 still checks all the right boxes. From its industry-leading weather sealing to its impressive computational photography tools, this camera remains a fantastic investment in 2025.
Below, we’ll break down the five key reasons why the OM-5 is still a great buy this year!
Table of Contents
- OM System OM-5 Specs & Features
- The OM System OM-5 Has a Compact and Lightweight Design Perfect for Travel and Adventure
- Enjoy Industry-Leading Weather Sealing for Rugged Use
- The Advanced Computational Photography Features of the OM System OM-5 are Impressive
- Take Advantage of Powerful In-Body Image Stabilization
- The OM System OM-5 Gives You Affordability and Value for Money in 2025
OM System OM-5 Specs & Features
The OM System OM-5 is a compact and rugged Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera designed for photographers who need a lightweight yet powerful tool for capturing high-quality images and videos. With advanced computational photography features, robust weather sealing, and excellent in-body stabilization, it’s an ideal choice for travel, outdoor, and adventure photography. Get a closer look at this camera in the video below by Thomas Eisl.
Key Features and Specs:
- 20.4MP Live MOS sensor with TruePic IX image processor for sharp and detailed images
- 5-axis in-body image stabilization
- 121-point all-cross-type phase-detection AF system for fast and precise focusing
- 4K video recording at up to 30fps with OM-Log400 for better dynamic range
- IP53-rated weather sealing for dust, splash, and freeze resistance
- Advanced computational photography features like Live ND, High-Res Shot, Starry Sky AF, and Pro Capture
- Single SD card slot and a long-lasting battery for extended shooting sessions
- Lightweight and compact design, perfect for travel and adventure photography
The OM System OM-5 Has a Compact and Lightweight Design Perfect for Travel and Adventure
One of the top reasons to choose the OM System OM-5 in 2025 is its exceptional portability. Weighing less than a pound for the body only, this camera is one of the lightest mirrorless models available, making it an excellent choice for travel and outdoor photographers.
If you frequently hike, backpack, or explore remote locations, carrying a bulky full-frame setup can be a hassle. The OM System OM-5 paired with a compact Micro Four Thirds (MFT) lens makes for a lightweight and highly capable package. Whether you’re trekking through mountain trails or capturing street scenes in a foreign city, this camera won’t weigh you down.
Another advantage of the OM-5’s compact design is its discreet profile. Unlike larger DSLR and full-frame mirrorless cameras, the OM System OM-5 doesn’t attract as much attention, making it an ideal tool for travel, street, and documentary photography. If you love capturing moments without disrupting the scene, this camera is a perfect companion.
Enjoy Industry-Leading Weather Sealing for Rugged Use
Durability is one of the OM System OM-5’s strongest selling points. With an IP53 weather-sealing rating, this camera can withstand dust, rain, and freezing temperatures, making it one of the most rugged mirrorless cameras available in 2025.
For outdoor enthusiasts like me, this level of protection is invaluable. Whether you’re shooting in humid jungles, arid deserts, or snow-covered landscapes, the OM System OM-5 is built to handle it all. This kind of durability is typically found in much larger and more expensive professional cameras, making the OM-5 an incredible value.
Many APS-C and full-frame cameras claim to have weather sealing, but few can match the OM System OM-5’s ability to operate in extreme conditions. Photographers who frequently work in challenging environments will appreciate having a camera that keeps up with their adventurous lifestyle.
The Advanced Computational Photography Features of the OM System OM-5 are Impressive
The OM System OM-5 is packed with computational photography tools that allow photographers to push their creative limits without needing extra gear. This is one of the reasons why it remains such a smart choice in 2025.
Key computational photography features include:
- Live ND Filter (up to ND16): Simulates a physical ND filter, enabling long exposure effects without needing additional accessories.
- Handheld High-Res Shot (50MP equivalent): Captures stunning, high-resolution images without the need for a tripod.
- Starry Sky AF: Allows for easy astrophotography without requiring manual focus adjustments.
- Focus Stacking and Bracketing: Ideal for macro and landscape photography, ensuring maximum depth of field and detail.
These features make the OM System OM-5 an excellent option for photographers who want to expand their creative toolkit. The ability to achieve long exposures, high-resolution shots, and stunning night photography without extra equipment is a game-changer.
Take Advantage of Powerful In-Body Image Stabilization
Image stabilization is a crucial feature for many photographers, and the OM System OM-5 boasts one of the best in-body image stabilization (IBIS) systems on the market. With up to 6.5 stops of stabilization (7.5 stops when paired with compatible lenses), handheld shooting becomes incredibly smooth and reliable.
This powerful IBIS system benefits low-light photography, telephoto shooting, and video recording. Even when using longer focal lengths, you can capture sharp images without needing a tripod. This is particularly useful for wildlife and street photographers who need to shoot handheld in unpredictable situations.
For videographers, the stabilization on the OM System OM-5 is a huge plus. Whether you’re filming handheld travel vlogs or cinematic b-roll, you can achieve gimbal-like smoothness without extra stabilization equipment. This makes it an excellent choice for content creators looking for a lightweight, all-in-one solution.
The OM System OM-5 Gives You Affordability and Value for Money in 2025
In 2025, the OM System OM-5 is expected to offer even better value as newer models are introduced. While flagship cameras continue to push the boundaries of technology, the OM-5 remains a cost-effective and feature-rich option for many photographers.
Compared to high-end APS-C and full-frame cameras, the OM System OM-5 is significantly more affordable. The Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem is also much more budget-friendly, meaning you can build a complete kit for less than the cost of a single full-frame body and lens.
For photographers who want professional-level features without breaking the bank, the OM System OM-5 remains one of the best investments in 2025. Whether you’re a beginner looking to step up from a smartphone or a seasoned shooter looking for a capable backup camera, the OM-5 delivers exceptional value.
If you’re in the market for a reliable, feature-packed mirrorless camera that won’t slow you down, the OM System OM-5 remains an outstanding choice in 2025. Whether you’re a traveller, outdoor enthusiast, or creative photographer, this camera has everything you need to capture stunning images in any environment. And you can find one for a bargain price by buying used through a reputable online platform like MPB!
I’ve used MPB for years to buy, sell, and trade photography gear. The MPB team is top-notch in every way, providing excellent customer service, expert advice, and a huge selection of cameras, lenses, and other gear. If you’re in the market for a new-to-you OM-5, MPB is the place to find it!
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