In this detailed review, we’ll explore everything there is to know about this camera, from its sensor to its autofocus capabilities to its video specs – and much more. By the time you finish reading this review, you’ll have the information you need to make an informed decision about buying one (or not!). You can get a quick preview of this camera in the video below by Peter Forsgård:
And if you do decide the OM System OM-1 Mark II is the right camera for you, you can save a nice chunk of cash by buying used from online platforms like MPB. Who is MPB? It’s a trustworthy and innovative online platform that offers high-quality used photo and video gear at unbeatable prices.
Better yet, every camera it sells is hand-inspected by highly-trained product specialists with years of experience and backed by a six-month warranty, allowing you to make your purchases confidently and worry-free. MPB also stands out because it makes buying, selling, and trading used gear unbelievably quick and easy. We have been using it for years to upgrade our photography kit, and it’s helped us save countless amounts of time and money. Visit their website today if you want to do the same.
Now, with all that out of the way, let’s get into the OM System OM-1 Mark II review!
Table of Contents
Design and Build Quality of the OM System OM-1 Mark II
The OM System OM-1 Mark II immediately impresses with its solid build and sleek design. It was built with durability in mind, so the camera features a robust magnesium alloy body that feels substantial without being overly heavy. This balance is perfect for both handheld shooting and long sessions with a tripod.
Ergonomically, it has a comfortable grip, even for extended periods. The button layout is intuitive, allowing quick access to essential controls when the moment counts.
Moreover, the camera’s weather sealing is a significant advantage for outdoor photographers. Its IP53 weather rating means it can endure rain, dust, and cold conditions without a hitch. In fact, the camera is freezeproof, dust and splash-resistant, and can operate in temperatures as cold as 14 degrees Fahrenheit, proving its reliability in various environments and weather conditions. Nice!
Image Quality is Top Notch
The heart of the OM System OM-1 Mark II is its impressive sensor. With 20.4 megapixels, this back-illuminated Micro Four Thirds sensor delivers superb images with excellent detail and clarity.
One of the standout features is its performance in low light. The noise reduction capabilities are top-notch, allowing for clean shots even at higher ISO settings. Speaking of ISO, the camera offers a native range of 100-25600.
Color reproduction is another area where this camera shines. The images are vibrant yet natural, requiring minimal post-processing to achieve the desired look. Whether shooting in JPEG or RAW, the results are consistently impressive, with a dynamic range that captures both highlights and shadows effectively.
The OM System OM-1 Mark II offers Good Autofocus and Speed
The OM System OM-1 Mark II boasts an advanced Cross Quad Pixel autofocus system that’s both fast and accurate. With 1,053 individual focus points, it tracks subjects effortlessly, making it ideal for various photography styles, from portraits to wildlife.
In action and wildlife photography, the autofocus performance is particularly noteworthy. It locks onto moving subjects with precision, ensuring sharp images even in challenging conditions. The camera can lock focus nearly anywhere on the sensor, and can detect animals and birds with ease.
In fact, the camera automatically detects many different subjects, including the following:
- Humans
- Cars
- Airplanes
- Trains
- Helicopters
- Motorcycles
- Dogs
- Cats
The continuous shooting speed is another highlight, offering up to 120 frames per second with the electronic shutter and 10 frames per second with mechanical shutter. This capability is invaluable for capturing fast-paced scenes without missing a moment. The speed and accuracy of the AF system is due in large part to the combination of the Cross Quad Pixel AF and the TruePic X processor found inside the camera.
The OM System OM-1 Mark II has Good Video Capabilities
For videographers, the OM System OM-1 Mark II offers decent features. It supports DCI and UHD 4K video recording at up to 60 fps (and full HD at up to 240 fps), delivering high-quality footage with excellent detail. Sure, other cameras offer 6K video or higher and faster frame rates, but 4K/60 is more than adequate for most needs.
The five-axis in-body stabilization works wonders in video mode. It reduces shake and produces smooth, professional-looking videos. It’s notable that the Mark II offers a 20 percent improvement in stabilization and boasts 8.5 EV stops of compensation.
The autofocus during video recording is reliable, maintaining focus on moving subjects without hunting. Additional features such as audio input and output options, as well as customizable video settings, make this camera a versatile tool for content creators – especially since it offers a vertical video mode for creating social media videos.
Features and Customization of the OM System OM-1 Mark II
One of the strengths of the OM System OM-1 Mark II is its array of features and customization options. For example, the previously mentioned in-body 5-axis image stabilization is a game-changer, allowing for sharp handheld shots even at slower shutter speeds. The 5.76-million-dot OLED electronic electronic viewfinder is another nice feature. It’s bright and clear, providing a true-to-life preview of each shot.
Customization is extensive, with the ability to remap buttons and create custom shooting modes tailored to your needs. The camera also boasts excellent wireless capabilities, with built-in Wi-Fi and Bluetooth. This makes it easy to transfer images to your smartphone or control the camera remotely using the dedicated app.
Other notable features include the following:
- Live GND8 and ND128 Filtering
- 14-bit RAW image output
- 3.0-inch 1.62-million-dot swivel touchscreen LCD
- Dual UHS-II SD card slots
- Focus stacking up to 15 shots
- Focus bracketing up to 999 shots
- Blackout-free sequential shooting
In other words, OM System’s flagship camera is ready to party with a laundry list of features!
Price and Value for the Money
As I mentioned in the introduction, you can save some cash by buying a used OM System OM-1 Mark II. Online platforms like MPB have models ranging from excellent to like-new condition starting at $2,149 at the time of this writing. That’s a savings of about $250 over the retail price. That’s enough to pick up a used lens while you’re at it!
As flagship cameras go, a low $2,000s price is an excellent buy, especially considering you’re getting a camera with software-based ND and grad filters, top-notch weather sealing, and up to 120 fps burst shooting, among many other amenities. Sure, the 20.4-megapixel resolution isn’t anything to write home about, but it’s still more than adequate for most photographers’ needs.
If you’re looking for a bulletproof camera that’s compact, lightweight, easy to use, and offers good photo and video capabilities all wrapped into one, the OM System OM-1 Mark II is certainly worth a look!
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