Nikon Z9 vs Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II
Nikon Z9 Black 2021
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Black 2015
What Buyers Say
Nikon Z9 Black 2021
The Nikon Z9 is widely praised as a flagship mirrorless camera that delivers outstanding image quality, blazing-fast autofocus, and robust build quality. Enthusiasts and professionals alike appreciate its continuous firmware updates, which have added valuable features and refined performance. While some users note its substantial weight and learning curve, the overwhelming consensus is that it is one of the best cameras available, offering exceptional versatility and reliability.
Pros
- Excellent autofocus speed and accuracy
- Superb image quality and color
- Robust build and weather sealing
- Long battery life
- Continuous firmware updates
Cons
- Heavy and bulky body
- Steep learning curve
- High price point
- Requires new Z-mount lenses for full benefit
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Black 2015
The Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II is praised for its compact size, lightweight build, excellent image stabilization, and weather sealing, making it a versatile travel companion. However, several users report reliability issues, particularly with the rotating LCD screen cable failing after extended use, and the menu system is widely criticized as confusing. While image quality and stabilization are standout features, concerns about long-term durability and a steep learning curve temper overall enthusiasm.
Pros
- Compact and lightweight body
- Excellent image stabilization
- Weather sealing
- Good image quality
- Versatile lens options
Cons
- Confusing menu system
- Rotating screen cable design flaw
- Reliability issues after 2-3 years
- Slow autofocus in continuous mode
- Poor ergonomics and grip
Scores
Specifications
| Nikon Z9 | Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II | |
|---|---|---|
| Sensor | ||
| Type | Stacked CMOS | Live MOS |
| Size | full-frame | micro-four-thirds |
| Megapixels | 45.70000076293945 MP★ | 16.100000381469727 MP |
| ISO Range | 64★ | 100 |
| Processor | EXPEED 7 | TruePic VII |
| Autofocus | ||
| AF Points | ||
| AF Type | Phase Detection: 493 | 81 |
| Eye AF | ✓★ | — |
| Animal AF | ✓★ | — |
| Subject Detection | ✓★ | — |
| Shooting | ||
| Burst (Mechanical) | 30 fps★ | 10 fps |
| Burst (Electronic) | 120 fps★ | — |
| Max Shutter | 1/32000 | 1/8000 |
| Electronic Shutter | ✓ | ✓ |
| Video | ||
| Max Resolution | 8K★ | 1080p |
| 4K FPS | 120 fps★ | — |
| 1080p FPS | 100 fps★ | 60 fps |
| 10-bit | ✓★ | — |
| Log Profile | ✓★ | — |
| RAW Video | ✓ | ✓ |
| Codec | ProRes 422 HQ, H.265 | various codecs |
| Display & EVF | ||
| Screen Size | 3.2"★ | 3" |
| Touchscreen | ✓★ | — |
| Articulating | ✓ | ✓ |
| EVF Resolution | 3.7M dots★ | 2.4M dots |
| Build | ||
| Weather Sealed | ✓ | ✓ |
| Weight | 1.16 kg | 0.41 kg★ |
| Battery Life | 700 shots★ | — |
| Connectivity | ||
| Wi-Fi | ✓ | ✓ |
| Bluetooth | ✓★ | — |
| USB | USB-C★ | — |
| HDMI | HDMI Output | — |
| Hot Shoe | ✓ | ✓ |
Pros & Cons
Nikon Z9 Black 2021
- Strong build (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong video (99th percentile)99th %ile
- Strong user sentiment (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Strong battery (98th percentile)98th %ile
- Below average affordability (9th percentile)9th %ile
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II Black 2015
- Strong build (90th percentile)90th %ile
- Strong stabilization (89th percentile)89th %ile
- Strong evf (88th percentile)88th %ile
- Strong af (81st percentile)81st %ile
- Below average sensor (16th percentile)16th %ile
- Below average user sentiment (17th percentile)17th %ile
Verdict
Scores 98 overall, wins 10 of 10 usage categories and 19 of 33 specs.