Why Switch from an E-M1 to an E-M5 II?
Should I replace my Olympus OM-D E-M1 with an E-M5 II?
I have that "buy something new" itch. That itch, combined with how much I've enjoyed using my Panasonic GM-5 camera over the past six months, has led me to consider downsizing my primary camera, the Olympus OM-D E-M1. I've used the little GM-5 so much since I got it that when I pick up my Olympus OM-D E-M1 I forget where some controls are.
The specs of the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II camera body. [Olympus Image]
I'm considering selling my E-M1 and purchasing a new or used Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II. The main reason is size even though the E-M1 compared to my old Canon 60D is certainly not big! The new E-M1 II is too pricey for my needs and wouldn't get me a smaller camera body. The E-M5 II is a bit smaller, but lacks a standard grip like the E-M1 has. I would probably buy the HLD-8G grip to add that "feel" if I find I miss it, but not right away. However, it is the smaller size of the E-M5 II - though not extreme - that I like. The E-M5 II's fully articulated LCD and some other features newer than those in the E-M1 are appealing to me as well.
Specs of the original Olympus OM-D E-M1 camera body. [Olympus Image]
One problem I face because of my location (Lynchburg, VA USA) is that the closest stores that have a full inventory of Olympus MFT camera equipment are about 200 miles (322 km) away! Crutchfield's in nearby Charlottesville, VA (70 miles/113 km), does carry Olympus cameras but their showroom doesn't usually have much on display. Recently, though, I did stop by on my way home from Washington, DC, and they had an E-M5 II in the showroom! It was even equipped with the Olympus 12-40mm lens so I could do an in person comparison of that setup with my E-M1 also outfitted with the 12-40mm lens. My conclusion was that I would be happy with the smaller E-M5 II!
I'm hoping that Olympus will have one of their discount promotions soon or that I can find a good deal on a used, "like new" E-M5 II so I can buy it and try it while I still own the E-M1. Then, assuming I'm totally happy with the E-M5 II, I'll put my (in very good shape) E-M1 up for sale.
