Overdue video! I have the GR II and GR IIIx and while both of these cameras are amazing street photography cameras, they have some seriously annoying flaws, mostly with low light auto focus performance. In low light, the GR cameras have unusable auto focus. For a small, comparable setup, I am using the E-PM2 (I picked up 2 for ~USD100 each) with any of the small primes. The E-PM2 has touch screen exposure, blazingly fast auto focus in almost every situation, access to faster lenses in comparable form factor, negating the image sensor advantage of the GR, IBIS, can take an electronic viewfinder. Robin, you are right. Auto focus on the Pens is MUCH much faster than on any of the GRs. The GR does not care about auto focus performance because the GR design assumes you always stop down and zone focus to achieve maximum DoF. That's true for most well lit situations, but the assumption fails when in low light. I always thought the E-PM2 was greatly underrated and underappreciated. The sensor is sound, it renders very beautiful 16MP images with usable output all the way up to ISO6400. 16MP is more than enough for every street photography use case.
Thanks for sharing. I want the E-PM2 but I can't find any here unfortunately in the used market. Glad someone pointed out the low light AF issue. This is pin-worthy.
@@robinwong The E-PM2 sensor is better, but I prefer the E-PM1 body. And the E-PM2 IBIS fails on almost all bodies. Overall I have gone back to the E-PM1.
@@larrywhite8590 the epm1 body sure feels nicer because all metal vs epm2, but grip wise, especially if hands at all sweaty the epm2 gives a better hold.(not great, better) Not sure what you mean regards epm2 IBIS, it's not like a even a first gen e-m5 but it's better than nothing and I have found shooting not a problem if I just keep in mind that I can't get the same longer exposure as other oly bodies. But epm1 is worse still.
I love my PEN mini E-PM2 and Panasonic 20 1.7mm pancake as an alternative to the GRIIIx. I recently had an opportunity to try out a GRIIIx and while it was a really nice camera, I found that side by side with the E-PM2 and 20mm 1.7 there wasn't much difference in image quality. I really hope OMDS brings back the PEN mini line
E-PM2 is actually one of my most used MFT body back in 2 years ago. Packed with VF-4 and toshiba wifi card the camera can be convenient and fun to use. However i had to let go as the back wheel ceased to works after rigorous use and poor storage.
I shoot a Canon PowerShot S95 that I paid $40 + shipping for. The wide end translates to a 28mm f/2 plus it will zoom to around 105mm f/4.9equivalent and shoot 720 video. Really a small camera and I like the photos okay, you can even shoot in manual with it if you want to.
picked up a E-P2 for free last year and got a 7artisans 18mm 6.3 lens for it. also decided to get the 14mm 2.5. this camera got me hooked to m43 when before I was always shooting FF or apsc. now i also own an E-P5 with 17mm 1.8
My ‘every day carry’ is an Olympus omd em-10 mk111s…..with a n Olympus M.ZUIKO ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ lens….not much bigger and still pocketable…love it..
My pocket camera setup is the Panasonic GM5 with its Panasonic 12-32mm zoom. I have gotten some beautiful pictures with it that rival some bigger-sensor cameras.
This is why I love this channel so much! Not only is Robin realistic but such a bright individual! We all want to just experience using other cameras but we can’t afford them! Hearing some comparisons and seeing them shows how capable cameras are!
My Ricoh GR III alternative is the Fujifilm XF-10 which gets really bad reviews for some reason but is in my opinion a brilliant camera for street photography and even landscapes. Its lens is razor sharp and its 24MP APS-C sensor produces excellent images. It's very small and most people ignore me when I'm using it because it looks like a cheap point and shoot.
Just a hint - Panasonic GM1/GM5 is smaller (and GM5 has even a viewfinder) and better than this Olympus pen mini. I'm still using GM1 with Lumix 20/1.7
@@prelude1218 that's true though they are still way cheaper than Ricoh. While I think it's a better option than Olympus, especially when paired with Panasonic lens, it may not fit everybody's budget
I was lucky , when Panasonic stopped the production of GM5 , I saw one in a sale , the last one in the shop and I bought it. I wonder why Panasonic doesn't produce a similar camera.
Other alternative is the old sony nex lineup. Nex 5 series, nex 3 series. same size, same price with this camera(body). You have ability to attach vintage lens or modern sony lens, or modern MF lens, they bigger than M43 lens.But nex have same apsc size sensor with Ricoh GR bigger bokeh narrower DOF than this camera. I attach some cheap 50 F1.4 MF lens, DOF and bokeh look like FF camera lol. fujifilm have some cam same size too. You can check it out. really fun to use small, cheap mirrrorless camera
I bought the E-PM1 after seeing this video, and I pair it with the Oly 17mm f2.8 (that I love no matter what people say) and I'm so happy with it. I carry it with me everywhere I go. I used it at a local lantern festival and the colors were just beautiful. Thank you so much for putting this fun camera on my radar!
APS-C sensor, leaf shutter (high-speed fill flash photography), snap focus? That said, I travel with my Panasonic 14mm on my GF-1... so I guess I have a similar makeshift alternative, but not quite a substitute.
Thanks for continuing to do review videos on pre-owned budget gear alternatives. I think Olympus Pen-E M4/3 cameras are a great tool for the price. I bought an E-PL3 display model 10 years ago for really cheap and it's still one of my favorite cameras. I bought it exclusively for putting my old Nikon and Olympus SLR film lenses to use again. My favorite combo is the E-PL3 with Nikon E-Series 28mm F2.8. The only drawback with the camera for me is the lack of a viewfinder, so I ordered a used VF-3 yesterday and I'm hoping this makes the camera more usable for me.
I recently bought an e-pm2, just for 10£, I thought there was something wrong with the camera but to my surprise, everything work perfectly. Is always in my pocket and just last week I was on holiday and I found a perfect camera to walk around and shoot with confidence and a free mind. Plus I enjoy using it with old lenses.
I recently bough an Olympus Pen P3 with the Panasonic 12-32mm pancake lens, it is a great combo, and was around 170 EUR from mpb. It can fit in a very small bag
Just a tip for any current and prospective Pen mini EPM1 owners, check your firmware is updated to 1.4 (body) and you will get support for the seriously awesome VF4 viewfinder and various other tweaks. I've recently picked up a couple of epm1's for a bargain and they were both still rocking firmware 1.0.
Thank you Robin for this great review, always watching! Few years ago I bought Olympus zuiko 45mm f1.8 and I never used because in my video projects I needed wider lenses like 9mm, 14mm, 20mm and so on. Month or so ago I saw Olympus E-PL6 for sale for extra cheap 50€ in mint condition. I bought it, mounted my 45mm f1.8 zuiko on it and I'm really happy with results that I get. Yes of course cameras like Panasonic GH5, Olympus OMD EgM1 or others MFT, APSC, FF cameras can give you much better results and quality but for so cheap this camera is magic!
The day I bought the 45mm f1.8 back in about 2012, I put it on the E-M5 and walked around for a while. The autofocus was excellent as always, and the results blew me away. Having a solid portrait setup that could go in a jacket pocket was a revelation.
@@robinwong I believe that I bought it just because I heard so much good things about it from you and many other MFT photographers that I just bought it as soon as prices was right 😆 I actually think this is perfect lens for street photography, yes sometimes I have a will to have something wider like 24mm or 20mm f1.8 or maybe even 17mm f1.8. But as I personally own just 45mm f1.8 and the rest of the lenses I have rented for special projects, than I keep shooting what I have. I would be curios to try some of the Panasonic Leica lens on my e-pl6.
@@raksh9 Yeah the results you get with a pocket friendly setup is awesome! I have a project (not for business but for pleasure and experience) to ask random people on streets of my city for little portrait shoot and of course I will shoot with my 45mm f1.8
The size and weight of M43 is good for carrying everyday,I have the Panasonic GM1 with 14mm F/2.5 as daily camera and it’s feels good ,it helps me to take photo everywhere and everyday .
My E-PL3 with old pancake lens m.zuiko 17mm f2.8 is also small and nice. I also have Joby micro tripod attached to it. It's very small collapsible tripod and doesn't add practically anything to the size and weight of the setup.
We need a new very compact m4/3 camera from olympus with the latest specs... I would love to own a very compact camera that can shoot in all environments that I can just put in my pocket.
The combo performs more than the GR II on sensibility and image size about 16mp. You can find second hand GR II at the same price but beware if dust problem on the sensor that can't be cleant
I bought a PEN mini a couple years ago for $84 US with only a couple hundred clicks on the shutter. Unless prices for them have shot up, you should be able to get one cheap. Shooting in raw, I was able to post process some really nice images out of it. My main gripe with this camera is shutter shock. At certain speeds, I'd always get soft images no matter what anti shock setting I used. The same lens on my GX85 was perfectly sharp.
I have spent the evening fiddeling with a couple of E-PM1s, one with Lumix 14mm and one with the lumix 20 mm... They found their way into my ownership more or less by accident, bundled with something I fancied getting, so total outlay on the bodies, one with a silver 14-42 and one with a black 14-42EZ, both with bags, one Oly, one Crumpler and most of the sundries such as flashes, chargers etcetera for a grand total of $75 and change... One with 2311 actuations and the other one with 3478 on the counter. I will horse around with them a bit, but I think I will splurge for a couple of the Sony AG-R2 to get rid of the bar of soap feeling on them. It is either those or some strategically placed skateboard tape.
I put that lens, along with the Panasonic 20mm f1.7, on my GX-85 for my street photography. Good times. The 20mm F1.7 is the same focal length as the GRlll-X from Ricoh. The best of both worlds.
I have the exact same setup and find it quite useful for a compact camera, especially considering the over-inflated price of the GRIII. I have not noticed a lot of purple fringing with mine, but hen maybe I just wasn't looking for it. Lately I have also been using the Pen Mini 1 with the Pergear 10mm f/8 lens. Makes for an even more compact package. Great video! Thank you.
Great video! And, yes that is one of the reasons I got into m43. My set up is similar but I use instead the e-m10 ii. I loved those dials and the ease of changing settings when doing street. It's almost pocketable ...
Nice video! I like these kind of bargains second hand - I have the E-P5 that was quite cheap as well, pairing it with the 17/1.8 or 45/1.8 it is perfect to bring on bicycle rides without compromising the image quality but still having something portable and not too valuable.
One feature that's hard to beat on the GR is the Snap Focus. GR series never have great AF, but with snap focus, I find it easier to catch the scene. Combined with super compact body, and a really sharp lens, It's still my dream street camera. Not the Leica Q, not the X100, and that came from a Fujifilm shooter so that's should tell you something.
@@log791 Agree, it's easier to do with true manual focus lens. The concept is basically the same, you focus previously, or have presets for specific "focuses" like the Snap Focus. Whats faster than fastest AF is not have to focus altogether.
The Pen Mini 2 body was almost as cheap as the Pen Mini body last time I looked and the sensor is better, 16mp vs 12mp but all around better dynamic range etc. Slightly better controls too. But both are good used deals. Some great photos in your video here too by the way, as usual.
To Robin, Thank you for your many years as a mentor in the photography community, Photography by James Metcalfe A photograph is more than just A gift to bring or send. And more than just the likeness of A relative or friend. It is a kindly greeting and A memory to hold. Of happy times and pleasant things. However new or old. It is a mirror that reflects Companionship and cheer. And now and then the wistfulness That turns into a tear. A photograph is something to Adorn a desk or wall. Or carry in a pocket and Display to one and all. It is a faithful portrait The smile that friendship shares To add its sunshine and to show That someone really cares. Author: Unknown
Great thoughts as always Robin! I've just switched to EM1 from Canon 7D mkii and bought an E-PM2 as a second body, paid A$100 (MYR300) with a kit lens and SC of 300 (!). Brand new! Love them both so far, especially the portability with 14-150mm lens. I took the E-PM2 out for a hike yesterday to shoot some sculptures by the sea in Sydney. I'm in awe of the pictures quality and even despite the AF limitations, I managed to shoot some nice pictures and birds (including a kestrel in flight). I now plan to carry this super light setup with me everywhere and start shooting some street photos inspired by yours. Thank you for showing me the way and keep spreading the love for photography!
The compact system I have enjoyed for years is E-PL7 + 15 1.7, 25 1.8 and 45 1.8 depending on my mood - great quality and more than good enough even in low light. I often paired it with 14-42 pancake (which I always had in my bag as it was so tiny, even when I didn't use it) and 9-18 but both of them have died because of the ribbon cable common fault and I would never recommend these lenses again. E-PL7 (and newer ones) has a dial on top which is fantastic. Unfortunately only one unlike E-P5 but it is still great. The 3-axis IS is great. It's on a different level from E-M1III but in most cases it was more than enough especially after upgrading from E-450 with no IBIS at all. I usually used it with the external viewfinder VF-4 (sadly Olympus got rid of the accessory port in E-PL9 and E-P7 and VF4 is a much better viewfinder than the one on E-M10 series) but when I wanted the most compact setup, the E-PL7 and any 1.7 or 1.8 primes were amazing. Good for any jacket pocket and fitting in several trousers as well. I upgraded my compact system to E-M1 III with 12-100 and while it gave me a boost in image quality (not as much as an upgrade from E-450 to E-PL7) and the ability to limit myself to one lens in most situation and a huge boost in continuous autofocus as well as the second dial and fantastic grip, I often question myself because of how huge this setup is. E-PL with a tiny prime is still such a pleasure to use when I take a walk in a location I already know.
My preference is the Panasonic GM1 with the Olympus 17mm 2.8, a tiny package that fits in my jeans pocket. The GM1 has very fast and accurate autofocus and it produces superb image quality too, punching well above it's weight. I'd love a GR but I refuse to pay that amount for it, especially as I'm not gaining much. The lens is amazing and the image quality is brilliant but it's not worth the price. If I need better image quality, I put the small grip on the Pentax KP with the 40mm X's 2.8 pancake lens, it slides into my jacket pocket or I put it on the sling.
I love taking out my EPL-5 with either the Panasonic 14mm 2.5 or the Panasonic 20mm 1.7 for a compact setup. Much more economical and similar setup than the Ricoh GRIII, although I do love that camera. I'm quite happy with my compact system
@@robinwong I agree completely. Don't get me wrong, I have the Olympus EM10 II, EM5 II, and the EM1 II, and I absolutely love all 3 cameras, but the EPL5 with one of the pancake lens is the perfect go anywhere setup. I bring one or two extra batteries with me and I'm set to shoot for the day and can keep it in my pocket. No need whatsoever to even carry the smallest of camera bags
Panasonic GX880 (+ other model names it is known under) is my choice. Benefits: 16 MP MFT sensor, 4K video (restricted in duration, true, but enough for Insta reels), excellent autofocus + face detection for stills, cable charging from standard USB-mini cable, the awesome 4K photo mode and post-focus, and very selfie-friendly (flip touch screen and dedicated selfie mode), if you are into such things. Being much more recent camera, it is more expensive, of course. It has a built-in flash, but no option for add-on EVF. It complements perfectly my EM-1 II for travel. The best lenses among my set to pair it with - PanaLeica 15 mm f/1.7 (not cheap!) or the Samyang 7.5 mm f/2.8 fisheye.
Images look better than on the latest smartphones.. I think the Panasonic Lumix GF Series (GF10/GF90, GF8, GF7, etc.) can also be a cheaper alternative to Ricoh. They are newer than E-PM1.
Agree, the GF series is oftern overlooked. I was recently in the market for a GX800 (aka GX850 or GF9) but found the GF7 much cheaper, just under €100. Same dimensions, slightly lower spec, but same spec for everything that mattered to me. Paired with the 14mm, 20mm and 45mm primes, great set.
Hi Robin. I have used the E-PM1 for street photography for years. I use a 7-Artisans body cap lens. Have you ever tried this lens. Its really flat and very pocketable on the E-PM1. Thanks for the video.
Ha! I was searching for an alternative to the Ricoh last year and since I love my Tough TG-6 I gave Olympus a try and ended up with a Pen Mini 2 and the LUMIX 14mm. I bought the body used with two zoom lenses (14-42 & 40-150) which I sold. In the end I paid around 25 bucks for the body. I also like to use it in combination with the Olympus 14-42mm EZ and it’s automatic lens cap.
I think Olympus is often overlooked by street photography UA-camrs. I'm happy to see alternatives to Ricoh and Fuji presented. I think the more resent models with the flip up screens have a lot more utility but this kit is a good introduction. Is the purple edging with that lens a common problem on all micro 4/3 cameras or just that gen 1 sensor?
Enjoyed watching your video. Thanks for making it. My setup for street using MFT is a GM5 with the 12-32 and a the 15mm Pana-Leica as backup for the darker moments.
My setup for poor, very poor, gr3: Panasonic gf5 used 20 euros Industar 69 28mm 2.8 10 euros at flea market.😁 Adapter m39 to MFT 10 euro One more bonus: you can clean sensor meanwhile in gr3 you must hope autoclean works.
One of the benefits of micro four thirds is that the same image quality can be gained from a range of camera body sizes, from the minuscule Panasonic GM1 to the Olympus Em5 mk II and Panasonic GH4. This gives choices with little to no compromise in image quality, depending on what features and handling are wanted. A shooter can choose a Pen F or a EM1x and get very similar image quality but in different footprints. I often travel with the tiny f1.8 primes and the results speak for themselves. Olympus could charge a fair bit more for the 25 and 45 if they had metal housing and a focus clutch, but similar size.
That is definitely a bargain-priced package, Robin, and the photographs you showed from it are remarkably good. Of course, we know that you can make the best of any camera set-up, but I think you certainly proved the point with this.
Lovely content, and lovely images as always. And it proves once again; what is behind and in front of the camera is what matters. A once in a lifetime moment captured on a potato camera beats a potato moment captured on the most expensive of gear.
I noticed the flashing red "IS 1" designation - which means that the image stabilization is no longer working. A common problem with these models (same with the E-PM2). But for $35, this is fine, as you're still able to take photos under most conditions (especially with a wider lens). I would like to have a modernized version of this camera and a re-issue of the VF-4, but chances are slim. My E-PM2 and VF-4 went to a friend, and I miss this combination (I had the E-PM1 with the VF-3 prior to it - it was okay, but not great).
My alternative to the GR III would be the LUMIX GX850/800/880/GF9 with the LUMIX 14mm f2.5. I bought a GR IIIx and there are some features I like a lot, but overall the GX850 is my preference. The GX850 has a tilt screen and faster AF, and I can choose my lens. I’m surprised at your assessment of the 14/2.5 because it doesn’t match my experience with it it. I don’t get a lot of CA, and while the AF is not the fastest, I feel it’s a little closer to the fast focusers than say, the 20/1.7 and often faster and more reliable than the GR IIIx. The IQ of the 16mp GX850 is close to the the GR III’s as well. Unfortunately, the GX850 is still not dirt cheap, but I think that is a testament to its quality and abilities. Thanks for this look at the PEN mini. I had forgotten it existed. 🙏
I believe the purple fringing/CA is a known side effect of using Lumix lenses on Olympus cameras, due to differences in how each company handles UV filtration in the lens and in the sensor filter stack.
I have E-PL1 with 15/8 and most of the time it is good. Even for indoors. It is impossible to beat any GR for compactness and controls. But I went for GRD III for $150 and it is good. Just as with 15/8 on E-PL1 no need for AF, but GRD III does it @f1.9 due to small sensor.
I think the Nikon Coolpix A is a good alternative to the Ricoh GR series if you want a compact, fixed lens camera. I have heard good things about the Fujifilm X70 also. Great video as always.
I use the Panasonic GF3 for my compact setup and I have to agree, the 12MP sensor... is difficult, but I really love the images. I really like the image rendering at low iso, and the way the shadows roll off when you push them looks 'filmic'.
I personally would prefer your choice , and I’ve owned a GRiii , I’ve also owned a pen Epl9 tho sold it to fund a new lens , yes I can’t afford multiple cameras either
came from camera conspiracies and subbed (although im not really into photography). i know you mainly focus on photography but would be nice if you dabbled in video capability of the cameras as well as smartphone cameras because i believe they will help your channel grow. I assume you already know a lot about videography or learning rapidly since you're creating videos for youtube. Just a thought but no pressure if you want to just focus and photography. thanks robin!
Even my Panasonic G3 with 14mm f2.5 or 12-32mm will fit in my medium size pocket. With larger pocket pant somehow even my EM1. mk2 with those lenses can fit.
The Lumix GF9/GX800 plus 15mm F1.7 combo is a more expensive but good alternative I picked up secondhand GF9 for 100USD equivalent here in Manila and the 15mm for about 200 when I lived in Ireland, without the hood it’s pocketable. Better video quality than the GR III but far behind on stills. The GR is also great cityscape camera with the Nisi filter set though not just for street shooters
This Olympus is a really nice camera but can it be an alternative for Ricoh GR III. I don't think so. GR III is a pocket camera. GR III has amazing lens, amazing sensor, amazing operation & controls, amazing build quality and amazing color processing.
I use my GX1 with the 14 f/2.5 when I need something small and my GX85 is too heavy or my G9 and G95 are too large. It's a great combination that rarely disappoints.
Closest thing I've got is my X-E1 and 27 2.8, but prices on the X-E1 have shot up for some reason. Could probably resell it for more than I bought it for, and have owned it since I think 2017. Was considering finding a GHX1 and 14/2.5 combo because I want to try out m4/3s for street when I don't want to carry the fp around.
Anther great review and beautiful images, thanks Robin. Just looking around for a compact to take on bicycle rides, a new OMS TG model with a MFT sensor would be top of my shopping list, I'll probably buy a GR IIIx.
Nice video and glad someone posted about it. I have a GRii and an EPM2 with the 14mm. It is a great budget alternative and the addition of IBIS in the EPM2 is helpful. I would say it is more of a comparison to the GR and GRii with 16mp. The EPM2 is a better buy if you can get it because of the 16mp and Ibis. Also, the touch screen works well. I agree about the lens a well, it's good but not great. The Panny 20mm is much better.
@@robinwong yeah, and looked here, fairly uncommon and pretty expensive for it's age starting around $150 usd up. I've had mine since new and they were clearing out here ages ago
Having the ability to change to other lenses is one of the reasons I always talk myself out of cameras like the Panasonic Lumix LX100 series, or the Sony RX100 series (except maybe the VI or VII but they are expensive), and the Fuji X100-series with the built-in fiexed 28mm lens. I think having interchangable lens cameras has just spoiled me, but I am now actually looking for a compact camera for daily walkaround use (when I'm not really aiming to really do true photography -- just having a camera that's ready for anything if I talk a walk for example), and this is where I think I may look into the m4/3 system or possibly a small Canon EOS M system (even though the EOS M will likely be discontinued within a year or two because of the new APS-C R systems).
Overdue video!
I have the GR II and GR IIIx and while both of these cameras are amazing street photography cameras, they have some seriously annoying flaws, mostly with low light auto focus performance. In low light, the GR cameras have unusable auto focus. For a small, comparable setup, I am using the E-PM2 (I picked up 2 for ~USD100 each) with any of the small primes. The E-PM2 has touch screen exposure, blazingly fast auto focus in almost every situation, access to faster lenses in comparable form factor, negating the image sensor advantage of the GR, IBIS, can take an electronic viewfinder. Robin, you are right. Auto focus on the Pens is MUCH much faster than on any of the GRs. The GR does not care about auto focus performance because the GR design assumes you always stop down and zone focus to achieve maximum DoF. That's true for most well lit situations, but the assumption fails when in low light.
I always thought the E-PM2 was greatly underrated and underappreciated. The sensor is sound, it renders very beautiful 16MP images with usable output all the way up to ISO6400. 16MP is more than enough for every street photography use case.
Thanks for sharing. I want the E-PM2 but I can't find any here unfortunately in the used market. Glad someone pointed out the low light AF issue. This is pin-worthy.
@@robinwong The E-PM2 sensor is better, but I prefer the E-PM1 body. And the E-PM2 IBIS fails on almost all bodies. Overall I have gone back to the E-PM1.
@@larrywhite8590 the epm1 body sure feels nicer because all metal vs epm2, but grip wise, especially if hands at all sweaty the epm2 gives a better hold.(not great, better)
Not sure what you mean regards epm2 IBIS, it's not like a even a first gen e-m5 but it's better than nothing and I have found shooting not a problem if I just keep in mind that I can't get the same longer exposure as other oly bodies. But epm1 is worse still.
@@chrisrichardson4899 E-PM2 Ibis units tend to stop working.
MFT rules! :-)
Great photos Robin, thanks for sharing your experience with this combo!
I love my PEN mini E-PM2 and Panasonic 20 1.7mm pancake as an alternative to the GRIIIx. I recently had an opportunity to try out a GRIIIx and while it was a really nice camera, I found that side by side with the E-PM2 and 20mm 1.7 there wasn't much difference in image quality. I really hope OMDS brings back the PEN mini line
I hope they bring back too
I have the same combination, bought secondhand. Highly recommended.
E-PM2 is actually one of my most used MFT body back in 2 years ago. Packed with VF-4 and toshiba wifi card the camera can be convenient and fun to use. However i had to let go as the back wheel ceased to works after rigorous use and poor storage.
You might find one on E system user group classifieds
Oh wow I thought I was the only one who rocked the E-PM2 and the 20! The 14 keeps tempting me but given this review I’m not so sure….
I shoot a Canon PowerShot S95 that I paid $40 + shipping for. The wide end translates to a 28mm f/2 plus it will zoom to around 105mm f/4.9equivalent and shoot 720 video. Really a small camera and I like the photos okay, you can even shoot in manual with it if you want to.
picked up a E-P2 for free last year and got a 7artisans 18mm 6.3 lens for it. also decided to get the 14mm 2.5. this camera got me hooked to m43 when before I was always shooting FF or apsc. now i also own an E-P5 with 17mm 1.8
My ‘every day carry’ is an Olympus omd em-10 mk111s…..with a n Olympus M.ZUIKO ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ lens….not much bigger and still pocketable…love it..
That pancake is the trick!
My pocket camera setup is the Panasonic GM5 with its Panasonic 12-32mm zoom. I have gotten some beautiful pictures with it that rival some bigger-sensor cameras.
This is why I love this channel so much! Not only is Robin realistic but such a bright individual! We all want to just experience using other cameras but we can’t afford them! Hearing some comparisons and seeing them shows how capable cameras are!
My Ricoh GR III alternative is the Fujifilm XF-10 which gets really bad reviews for some reason but is in my opinion a brilliant camera for street photography and even landscapes. Its lens is razor sharp and its 24MP APS-C sensor produces excellent images. It's very small and most people ignore me when I'm using it because it looks like a cheap point and shoot.
I like the XF-10 so much I bought one in case my first ever breaks. It’s a criminally underrated camera.
Just a hint - Panasonic GM1/GM5 is smaller (and GM5 has even a viewfinder) and better than this Olympus pen mini. I'm still using GM1 with Lumix 20/1.7
Both true statements, but in the U.S. at least, both cost more than the Olympus.
I use GM1 too, a perfect camera with good quality sensor, but also E-PL9, which I find better than this.
@@prelude1218 that's true though they are still way cheaper than Ricoh. While I think it's a better option than Olympus, especially when paired with Panasonic lens, it may not fit everybody's budget
I was lucky , when Panasonic stopped the production of GM5 , I saw one in a sale , the last one in the shop and I bought it. I wonder why Panasonic doesn't produce a similar camera.
@@bengoey Good for you, that must be a great camera too, I am happy with GM1 as I shoot only video and never needed a viewfinder.
Other alternative is the old sony nex lineup. Nex 5 series, nex 3 series. same size, same price with this camera(body). You have ability to attach vintage lens or modern sony lens, or modern MF lens, they bigger than M43 lens.But nex have same apsc size sensor with Ricoh GR bigger bokeh narrower DOF than this camera. I attach some cheap 50 F1.4 MF lens, DOF and bokeh look like FF camera lol. fujifilm have some cam same size too. You can check it out. really fun to use small, cheap mirrrorless camera
I bought the E-PM1 after seeing this video, and I pair it with the Oly 17mm f2.8 (that I love no matter what people say) and I'm so happy with it. I carry it with me everywhere I go. I used it at a local lantern festival and the colors were just beautiful. Thank you so much for putting this fun camera on my radar!
APS-C sensor, leaf shutter (high-speed fill flash photography), snap focus?
That said, I travel with my Panasonic 14mm on my GF-1... so I guess I have a similar makeshift alternative, but not quite a substitute.
Thanks for continuing to do review videos on pre-owned budget gear alternatives. I think Olympus Pen-E M4/3 cameras are a great tool for the price. I bought an E-PL3 display model 10 years ago for really cheap and it's still one of my favorite cameras. I bought it exclusively for putting my old Nikon and Olympus SLR film lenses to use again. My favorite combo is the E-PL3 with Nikon E-Series 28mm F2.8. The only drawback with the camera for me is the lack of a viewfinder, so I ordered a used VF-3 yesterday and I'm hoping this makes the camera more usable for me.
I recently bought an e-pm2, just for 10£, I thought there was something wrong with the camera but to my surprise, everything work perfectly. Is always in my pocket and just last week I was on holiday and I found a perfect camera to walk around and shoot with confidence and a free mind.
Plus I enjoy using it with old lenses.
Whoah, that was a steal! I am jealous!
I recently bough an Olympus Pen P3 with the Panasonic 12-32mm pancake lens, it is a great combo, and was around 170 EUR from mpb. It can fit in a very small bag
That's a great find! Yeah the E-P3 is chunkier, but still a great machine
Just a tip for any current and prospective Pen mini EPM1 owners, check your firmware is updated to 1.4 (body) and you will get support for the seriously awesome VF4 viewfinder and various other tweaks. I've recently picked up a couple of epm1's for a bargain and they were both still rocking firmware 1.0.
Thanks for sharing
Thank you Robin for this great review, always watching! Few years ago I bought Olympus zuiko 45mm f1.8 and I never used because in my video projects I needed wider lenses like 9mm, 14mm, 20mm and so on. Month or so ago I saw Olympus E-PL6 for sale for extra cheap 50€ in mint condition. I bought it, mounted my 45mm f1.8 zuiko on it and I'm really happy with results that I get. Yes of course cameras like Panasonic GH5, Olympus OMD EgM1 or others MFT, APSC, FF cameras can give you much better results and quality but for so cheap this camera is magic!
Oh the Olympus 45mm F1.8 is something I cannot love without, it is my bread and butter lens.
The day I bought the 45mm f1.8 back in about 2012, I put it on the E-M5 and walked around for a while. The autofocus was excellent as always, and the results blew me away. Having a solid portrait setup that could go in a jacket pocket was a revelation.
@@robinwong I believe that I bought it just because I heard so much good things about it from you and many other MFT photographers that I just bought it as soon as prices was right 😆
I actually think this is perfect lens for street photography, yes sometimes I have a will to have something wider like 24mm or 20mm f1.8 or maybe even 17mm f1.8. But as I personally own just 45mm f1.8 and the rest of the lenses I have rented for special projects, than I keep shooting what I have. I would be curios to try some of the Panasonic Leica lens on my e-pl6.
@@raksh9 Yeah the results you get with a pocket friendly setup is awesome! I have a project (not for business but for pleasure and experience) to ask random people on streets of my city for little portrait shoot and of course I will shoot with my 45mm f1.8
The size and weight of M43 is good for carrying everyday,I have the Panasonic GM1 with 14mm F/2.5 as daily camera and it’s feels good ,it helps me to take photo everywhere and everyday .
The wonders of Micro Four Thirds system
My E-PL3 with old pancake lens m.zuiko 17mm f2.8 is also small and nice. I also have Joby micro tripod attached to it. It's very small collapsible tripod and doesn't add practically anything to the size and weight of the setup.
My only problem is the slow AF with 17mm F2.8
Thanks Robin. My set up is Lumix GM1 & Lumix 14mm f/2.5. It's enough for daily shoot
We need a new very compact m4/3 camera from olympus with the latest specs... I would love to own a very compact camera that can shoot in all environments that I can just put in my pocket.
The combo performs more than the GR II on sensibility and image size about 16mp. You can find second hand GR II at the same price but beware if dust problem on the sensor that can't be cleant
I bought a PEN mini a couple years ago for $84 US with only a couple hundred clicks on the shutter. Unless prices for them have shot up, you should be able to get one cheap. Shooting in raw, I was able to post process some really nice images out of it. My main gripe with this camera is shutter shock. At certain speeds, I'd always get soft images no matter what anti shock setting I used. The same lens on my GX85 was perfectly sharp.
Interesting, I have not experienced shutter shock yet with my PEN Mini, but my shutter speed was always kept very high.
I have a olympius pen f with a 20mm lens setup for my street photography.
I have spent the evening fiddeling with a couple of E-PM1s, one with Lumix 14mm and one with the lumix 20 mm... They found their way into my ownership more or less by accident, bundled with something I fancied getting, so total outlay on the bodies, one with a silver 14-42 and one with a black 14-42EZ, both with bags, one Oly, one Crumpler and most of the sundries such as flashes, chargers etcetera for a grand total of $75 and change... One with 2311 actuations and the other one with 3478 on the counter. I will horse around with them a bit, but I think I will splurge for a couple of the Sony AG-R2 to get rid of the bar of soap feeling on them. It is either those or some strategically placed skateboard tape.
Panasonic GM1 and same lens is a smaller package. I used it this week
I put that lens, along with the Panasonic 20mm f1.7, on my GX-85 for my street photography. Good times. The 20mm F1.7 is the same focal length as the GRlll-X from Ricoh. The best of both worlds.
I have the exact same setup and find it quite useful for a compact camera, especially considering the over-inflated price of the GRIII. I have not noticed a lot of purple fringing with mine, but hen maybe I just wasn't looking for it. Lately I have also been using the Pen Mini 1 with the Pergear 10mm f/8 lens. Makes for an even more compact package. Great video! Thank you.
Thanks for sharing your experience! Indeed such a compact setup. The purple fringing only happens in high contrast scenarios.
Great video!
And, yes that is one of the reasons I got into m43. My set up is similar but I use instead the e-m10 ii. I loved those dials and the ease of changing settings when doing street.
It's almost pocketable ...
Thanks for always sharing your knowledge Robin. Love your videos!
Thanks Johan glad I can share
Nice video! I like these kind of bargains second hand - I have the E-P5 that was quite cheap as well, pairing it with the 17/1.8 or 45/1.8 it is perfect to bring on bicycle rides without compromising the image quality but still having something portable and not too valuable.
E-P5 is absiolutely amazing!
In the USA where to buy the Olympus pen mini other than eBay, at your price point 150.
This is great! The image quality is excellent too! Will have a look out for one of these for my travels.
One feature that's hard to beat on the GR is the Snap Focus. GR series never have great AF, but with snap focus, I find it easier to catch the scene. Combined with super compact body, and a really sharp lens, It's still my dream street camera. Not the Leica Q, not the X100, and that came from a Fujifilm shooter so that's should tell you something.
The only solution that comes close to this in m43 realm is the real manual focus option of the 17mm f1.8. I'm loving it for street.
@@log791 Agree, it's easier to do with true manual focus lens. The concept is basically the same, you focus previously, or have presets for specific "focuses" like the Snap Focus. Whats faster than fastest AF is not have to focus altogether.
The Pen Mini 2 body was almost as cheap as the Pen Mini body last time I looked and the sensor is better, 16mp vs 12mp but all around better dynamic range etc. Slightly better controls too. But both are good used deals. Some great photos in your video here too by the way, as usual.
To Robin, Thank you for your many years as a mentor in the photography community,
Photography
by James Metcalfe
A photograph is more than just
A gift to bring or send.
And more than just the likeness of
A relative or friend.
It is a kindly greeting and
A memory to hold.
Of happy times and pleasant things.
However new or old.
It is a mirror that reflects
Companionship and cheer.
And now and then the wistfulness
That turns into a tear.
A photograph is something to
Adorn a desk or wall.
Or carry in a pocket and
Display to one and all.
It is a faithful portrait
The smile that friendship shares
To add its sunshine and to show
That someone really cares.
Author: Unknown
I just bought the ep1 w/20mm 1.7 for 150 about 2 months ago. Great camera excellent value !
What an excellent find!
Great thoughts as always Robin! I've just switched to EM1 from Canon 7D mkii and bought an E-PM2 as a second body, paid A$100 (MYR300) with a kit lens and SC of 300 (!). Brand new! Love them both so far, especially the portability with 14-150mm lens. I took the E-PM2 out for a hike yesterday to shoot some sculptures by the sea in Sydney. I'm in awe of the pictures quality and even despite the AF limitations, I managed to shoot some nice pictures and birds (including a kestrel in flight). I now plan to carry this super light setup with me everywhere and start shooting some street photos inspired by yours. Thank you for showing me the way and keep spreading the love for photography!
That picture of the Kuala Lumpur Tower is sick! I love it!
Thanks Sean
The compact system I have enjoyed for years is E-PL7 + 15 1.7, 25 1.8 and 45 1.8 depending on my mood - great quality and more than good enough even in low light. I often paired it with 14-42 pancake (which I always had in my bag as it was so tiny, even when I didn't use it) and 9-18 but both of them have died because of the ribbon cable common fault and I would never recommend these lenses again. E-PL7 (and newer ones) has a dial on top which is fantastic. Unfortunately only one unlike E-P5 but it is still great. The 3-axis IS is great. It's on a different level from E-M1III but in most cases it was more than enough especially after upgrading from E-450 with no IBIS at all. I usually used it with the external viewfinder VF-4 (sadly Olympus got rid of the accessory port in E-PL9 and E-P7 and VF4 is a much better viewfinder than the one on E-M10 series) but when I wanted the most compact setup, the E-PL7 and any 1.7 or 1.8 primes were amazing. Good for any jacket pocket and fitting in several trousers as well.
I upgraded my compact system to E-M1 III with 12-100 and while it gave me a boost in image quality (not as much as an upgrade from E-450 to E-PL7) and the ability to limit myself to one lens in most situation and a huge boost in continuous autofocus as well as the second dial and fantastic grip, I often question myself because of how huge this setup is. E-PL with a tiny prime is still such a pleasure to use when I take a walk in a location I already know.
and it has the possibility to remove dust!. Something unfortunality is not possible with the Ricoh.
Now that I am not aware of. Thanks for sharing
My preference is the Panasonic GM1 with the Olympus 17mm 2.8, a tiny package that fits in my jeans pocket. The GM1 has very fast and accurate autofocus and it produces superb image quality too, punching well above it's weight. I'd love a GR but I refuse to pay that amount for it, especially as I'm not gaining much. The lens is amazing and the image quality is brilliant but it's not worth the price. If I need better image quality, I put the small grip on the Pentax KP with the 40mm X's 2.8 pancake lens, it slides into my jacket pocket or I put it on the sling.
I know is not the best but wow it looks awesome I mean the setup you created for this video that camera and Lens match so well
I have an EPL 5 I use with the Lumix 14 mm. It's image stabilized on three axes and has a flip up touch screen that the GR lacks.
I’m still waiting for sigma dp2m update. That form factor with a fixed 50mm lens and foveon sensor.
I love taking out my EPL-5 with either the Panasonic 14mm 2.5 or the Panasonic 20mm 1.7 for a compact setup. Much more economical and similar setup than the Ricoh GRIII, although I do love that camera. I'm quite happy with my compact system
Yeah we need more compact cameras and lenses!
@@robinwong I agree completely. Don't get me wrong, I have the Olympus EM10 II, EM5 II, and the EM1 II, and I absolutely love all 3 cameras, but the EPL5 with one of the pancake lens is the perfect go anywhere setup. I bring one or two extra batteries with me and I'm set to shoot for the day and can keep it in my pocket. No need whatsoever to even carry the smallest of camera bags
i am a fan of my panasonic gx85 and use it the same way as i used my ricoh gr2. thanks for the effort and the sharing. thumbs up.
Panasonic GX880 (+ other model names it is known under) is my choice. Benefits: 16 MP MFT sensor, 4K video (restricted in duration, true, but enough for Insta reels), excellent autofocus + face detection for stills, cable charging from standard USB-mini cable, the awesome 4K photo mode and post-focus, and very selfie-friendly (flip touch screen and dedicated selfie mode), if you are into such things. Being much more recent camera, it is more expensive, of course. It has a built-in flash, but no option for add-on EVF. It complements perfectly my EM-1 II for travel. The best lenses among my set to pair it with - PanaLeica 15 mm f/1.7 (not cheap!) or the Samyang 7.5 mm f/2.8 fisheye.
Images look better than on the latest smartphones..
I think the Panasonic Lumix GF Series (GF10/GF90, GF8, GF7, etc.) can also be a cheaper alternative to Ricoh. They are newer than E-PM1.
Agree, the GF series is oftern overlooked. I was recently in the market for a GX800 (aka GX850 or GF9) but found the GF7 much cheaper, just under €100. Same dimensions, slightly lower spec, but same spec for everything that mattered to me. Paired with the 14mm, 20mm and 45mm primes, great set.
Wonderful photos and a really interesting review. I brought my GRIIIx to KL recently and loved using it. I'll hit you up next time I'm in town! :D
How do I make the colors (Pssitive Film) look like?
I like mine, I got the purple one. I use it with the 8mm lens cap a lot or the 14-42 ez, it really feels like a point and shoot with the 14-42 on it!
I did not know there was a purple one!
Hi Robin. I have used the E-PM1 for street photography for years. I use a 7-Artisans body cap lens. Have you ever tried this lens. Its really flat and very pocketable on the E-PM1. Thanks for the video.
Excellent selection of photographs
I agree. Thanks for sharing
Glad I can share
Great images and nice setup. Once again proves the photographer is more important than the gear.
Thanks, you are too kind
Ha! I was searching for an alternative to the Ricoh last year and since I love my Tough TG-6 I gave Olympus a try and ended up with a Pen Mini 2 and the LUMIX 14mm. I bought the body used with two zoom lenses (14-42 & 40-150) which I sold. In the end I paid around 25 bucks for the body. I also like to use it in combination with the Olympus 14-42mm EZ and it’s automatic lens cap.
I think Olympus is often overlooked by street photography UA-camrs. I'm happy to see alternatives to Ricoh and Fuji presented. I think the more resent models with the flip up screens have a lot more utility but this kit is a good introduction.
Is the purple edging with that lens a common problem on all micro 4/3 cameras or just that gen 1 sensor?
Enjoyed watching your video. Thanks for making it. My setup for street using MFT is a GM5 with the 12-32 and a the 15mm Pana-Leica as backup for the darker moments.
I got my first m43 with the panny 20mm 1.7 after the release of the GRIIIx to try an small form factor, and I got hooked with the m43 system
Micro Four Thirds also give you the option to change lens!
@@robinwong You are right! Now I have a small collection of pancake lenses, but I still need this 14mm, thank you Robin!
My setup for poor, very poor, gr3:
Panasonic gf5 used 20 euros
Industar 69 28mm 2.8 10 euros at flea market.😁 Adapter m39 to MFT 10 euro
One more bonus: you can clean sensor meanwhile in gr3 you must hope autoclean works.
Yeah that is true, dust on sensor is a bummer
I bought a GR i for $150 a few years ago. It’s also a great griii alternative. Honestly have no desire to upgrade.
One of the benefits of micro four thirds is that the same image quality can be gained from a range of camera body sizes, from the minuscule Panasonic GM1 to the Olympus Em5 mk II and Panasonic GH4. This gives choices with little to no compromise in image quality, depending on what features and handling are wanted. A shooter can choose a Pen F or a EM1x and get very similar image quality but in different footprints.
I often travel with the tiny f1.8 primes and the results speak for themselves. Olympus could charge a fair bit more for the 25 and 45 if they had metal housing and a focus clutch, but similar size.
I bought the pen mini right after I saw your pen mini video last time. Great little camera!
Thanks, glad you enjoyed the tiny mighty monster!
@@robinwong care to share where did you get the camera/lens from? Will be in Malaysia soon and would love to get a small point and shoot for the hols.
That is definitely a bargain-priced package, Robin, and the photographs you showed from it are remarkably good. Of course, we know that you can make the best of any camera set-up, but I think you certainly proved the point with this.
Thanks for the kind words, Jim. I was not trying to prove anything, I was curious to see this budget setup. I did admit the shortcomings of course
Lovely content, and lovely images as always. And it proves once again; what is behind and in front of the camera is what matters. A once in a lifetime moment captured on a potato camera beats a potato moment captured on the most expensive of gear.
Thank you Robin.🏵.
No worries
I noticed the flashing red "IS 1" designation - which means that the image stabilization is no longer working. A common problem with these models (same with the E-PM2). But for $35, this is fine, as you're still able to take photos under most conditions (especially with a wider lens). I would like to have a modernized version of this camera and a re-issue of the VF-4, but chances are slim. My E-PM2 and VF-4 went to a friend, and I miss this combination (I had the E-PM1 with the VF-3 prior to it - it was okay, but not great).
My alternative to the GR III would be the LUMIX GX850/800/880/GF9 with the LUMIX 14mm f2.5. I bought a GR IIIx and there are some features I like a lot, but overall the GX850 is my preference. The GX850 has a tilt screen and faster AF, and I can choose my lens. I’m surprised at your assessment of the 14/2.5 because it doesn’t match my experience with it it. I don’t get a lot of CA, and while the AF is not the fastest, I feel it’s a little closer to the fast focusers than say, the 20/1.7 and often faster and more reliable than the GR IIIx. The IQ of the 16mp GX850 is close to the the GR III’s as well. Unfortunately, the GX850 is still not dirt cheap, but I think that is a testament to its quality and abilities. Thanks for this look at the PEN mini. I had forgotten it existed. 🙏
I believe the purple fringing/CA is a known side effect of using Lumix lenses on Olympus cameras, due to differences in how each company handles UV filtration in the lens and in the sensor filter stack.
I have E-PL1 with 15/8 and most of the time it is good. Even for indoors. It is impossible to beat any GR for compactness and controls. But I went for GRD III for $150 and it is good. Just as with 15/8 on E-PL1 no need for AF, but GRD III does it @f1.9 due to small sensor.
Just sold mine because i love portability and still the lenses are too big for me. Camera was great. Now i bought Lumix LX7
I think the Nikon Coolpix A is a good alternative to the Ricoh GR series if you want a compact, fixed lens camera. I have heard good things about the Fujifilm X70 also. Great video as always.
The Coolpix A is a sadly forgotten gem. Those who have them, love them. Too bad they didn't sell enough for Nikon to continue that line.
I use the Panasonic GF3 for my compact setup and I have to agree, the 12MP sensor... is difficult, but I really love the images. I really like the image rendering at low iso, and the way the shadows roll off when you push them looks 'filmic'.
Your camera looks clean and nice!
I have using the GRII now but I will buy one more if Ricoh start selling the piano white version.
thanks for reminding me that "old" small cameras were already good enough for many usages. And now, they are very cheap.
Please, which camera would you choose between the Olympus pen Mimi and the Panasonic Lumix LX100?
Great video again 😀
I have Lumix GX800 + Panasonic 14mm f2.5 setup.
That's an awesome combo too
I personally would prefer your choice , and I’ve owned a GRiii , I’ve also owned a pen Epl9 tho sold it to fund a new lens , yes I can’t afford multiple cameras either
But you already have the GR III! enjoy the camera
@@robinwong owned past tense not got it anymore
came from camera conspiracies and subbed (although im not really into photography). i know you mainly focus on photography but would be nice if you dabbled in video capability of the cameras as well as smartphone cameras because i believe they will help your channel grow. I assume you already know a lot about videography or learning rapidly since you're creating videos for youtube. Just a thought but no pressure if you want to just focus and photography. thanks robin!
Panasonic gm1 + 14mm f2.5
The cost is much higher though
@@robinwong 🌟
Good point.
Even my Panasonic G3 with 14mm f2.5 or 12-32mm will fit in my medium size pocket. With larger pocket pant somehow even my EM1. mk2 with those lenses can fit.
That must be some huge pockets you have!
I used 2 ve White Camera & Black 12mm Prime Lens
Hood is mst bcz i dnt want Light on my Lens
Auto Mode wit Manual Aperture
Best 4 Bokeh
Some great shots Robin! I'm tempted to pick one up myself now!
The Lumix GF9/GX800 plus 15mm F1.7 combo is a more expensive but good alternative I picked up secondhand GF9 for 100USD equivalent here in Manila and the 15mm for about 200 when I lived in Ireland, without the hood it’s pocketable. Better video quality than the GR III but far behind on stills. The GR is also great cityscape camera with the Nisi filter set though not just for street shooters
What? This camera is 900 pounds in the UK. Where are you getting these prices from?
This Olympus is a really nice camera but can it be an alternative for Ricoh GR III. I don't think so. GR III is a pocket camera. GR III has amazing lens, amazing sensor, amazing operation & controls, amazing build quality and amazing color processing.
I use my GX1 with the 14 f/2.5 when I need something small and my GX85 is too heavy or my G9 and G95 are too large. It's a great combination that rarely disappoints.
Closest thing I've got is my X-E1 and 27 2.8, but prices on the X-E1 have shot up for some reason. Could probably resell it for more than I bought it for, and have owned it since I think 2017.
Was considering finding a GHX1 and 14/2.5 combo because I want to try out m4/3s for street when I don't want to carry the fp around.
Hi Robin, new follower here. What do you think about E-P3 + lumix 20mm f1.7 combo for street photography? any good?
Anther great review and beautiful images, thanks Robin. Just looking around for a compact to take on bicycle rides, a new OMS TG model with a MFT sensor would be top of my shopping list, I'll probably buy a GR IIIx.
Woow amazing camera still great
Nice video and glad someone posted about it. I have a GRii and an EPM2 with the 14mm. It is a great budget alternative and the addition of IBIS in the EPM2 is helpful. I would say it is more of a comparison to the GR and GRii with 16mp. The EPM2 is a better buy if you can get it because of the 16mp and Ibis. Also, the touch screen works well. I agree about the lens a well, it's good but not great. The Panny 20mm is much better.
the E-PM2 is another great budget competition to GRlll and is much better the E-PM1 (have both)
Yeah but I can't find it here!
@@robinwong yeah, and looked here, fairly uncommon and pretty expensive for it's age starting around $150 usd up.
I've had mine since new and they were clearing out here ages ago
Having the ability to change to other lenses is one of the reasons I always talk myself out of cameras like the Panasonic Lumix LX100 series, or the Sony RX100 series (except maybe the VI or VII but they are expensive), and the Fuji X100-series with the built-in fiexed 28mm lens. I think having interchangable lens cameras has just spoiled me, but I am now actually looking for a compact camera for daily walkaround use (when I'm not really aiming to really do true photography -- just having a camera that's ready for anything if I talk a walk for example), and this is where I think I may look into the m4/3 system or possibly a small Canon EOS M system (even though the EOS M will likely be discontinued within a year or two because of the new APS-C R systems).
Excellent video as always
Good Video Robin. Thank You.
Thanks, glad I can share
Canon G7x mk 2 is my best pocket camera! I have 20 more but bigger and not pocketable....
Maybe use the 15mm 1.7.