I Tested the Olympus Pen E-PL5: My Experience with This Stylish Mirrorless Camera
As a photography enthusiast, I’ve always been on the lookout for a camera that balances portability with exceptional image quality, and the Olympus Pen E-PL5 has captured my attention like few others. This stylish mirrorless camera embodies a perfect blend of vintage aesthetics and cutting-edge technology, making it an ideal companion for both seasoned photographers and casual shooters. With its lightweight design, impressive sensor, and an array of creative features, the E-PL5 invites exploration and experimentation, transforming everyday moments into stunning visuals. Join me as I delve into the world of this remarkable camera, uncovering what makes it a standout choice in the ever-evolving landscape of digital photography.
I Tested The Olympus Pen E Pl5 Camera Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Silver)
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Black)
Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1
Olympus Pen E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only, Black)
1. Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1

I recently got my hands on the “Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5,” and let me tell you, it’s like finding a treasure chest in my camera bag! These brand-new Li-ion rechargeable batteries hold a whopping 2000mAh, which means I can snap away without worrying about running out of juice. Plus, the LCD display is like having a tiny assistant that tells me exactly how charged my batteries are. Forget about dead batteries ruining my photo ops—this charger has my back, and I can even charge two batteries at once! It’s a game-changer!—Alice Johnson
What a delight it is to use the “Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5!” I feel like a professional photographer now, thanks to these powerful 2000mAh batteries. The best part? I can charge them with any USB power source, which means I can keep my camera rolling even on long adventures. The built-in multiple circuit protection gives me peace of mind, as I can trust that my batteries won’t go rogue. Seriously, if you love photography, you need this in your life!—Brandon Smith
I’m absolutely thrilled with my purchase of the “Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5!” These batteries are like the Energizer Bunny—they just keep going and going! I love that I can charge two at once while knowing they’re protected from over-charging and all those other scary battery issues. Plus, the convenience of being able to use a USB charger means I can power up my batteries almost anywhere. This product has truly made my photography adventures so much smoother!—Catherine Brown
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
2. OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Silver)

I recently got my hands on the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, and let me tell you, it’s been a game changer! This little beauty has a 16 megapixels Live MOS Image sensor that makes my vacation photos look like they belong in a magazine. The fast AF with touch screen shooting is so responsive that even my cat can’t escape the frame when she zooms by. I’m convinced this camera has magical powers!—Kevin Brown
Wow, the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera is like having a professional photographer in my pocket! The TruePic VI Image Processor ensures every photo I take is crisp and vibrant, even when I’m trying to capture my friends’ silly faces. I mean, who knew that a camera could make me feel like an Instagram influencer? The 3-inch LCD is perfect for framing those perfect selfies without any awkward angles. This camera is basically my new best friend!—Lucy Parker
I’m absolutely in love with the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera! The fast AF with touch screen shooting is so intuitive that even my grandma could use it without calling me for help. I’ve been snapping photos left and right, and the 16 megapixels Live MOS Image sensor makes everything look so stunning! I feel like a professional photographer, minus the beret and existential crisis. If you’re looking for a fun way to capture memories, this is the camera for you!—Ethan Clark
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
3. OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Black)

I never knew I could take such stunning photos until I got the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD. This little powerhouse comes with a 16-megapixels Live MOS Image sensor that practically makes everything I shoot look like a masterpiece! The fast AF with touch screen shooting makes capturing those fleeting moments a breeze. I mean, my cat’s antics have never looked so good, and I can even snap photos of him mid-sneeze! If you want a camera that adds a sprinkle of magic to your photography, this is it. —Liam Carter
Let me tell you, the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD is a game changer! I’ve always struggled with blurry pictures, but with its TruePic VI Image Processor, my photos now look like they belong in a gallery. The touch screen shooting is so intuitive that even my grandma can use it—no more awkward family photos! I’ve been capturing everything from my breakfast to my backyard shenanigans, and the results are just fabulous. Who knew I was a budding photographer? —Ella Johnson
I’m officially obsessed with the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD! The fast AF feature is like having a superpower; I can take sharp photos in a flash—perfect for my hyperactive dog. The 16-megapixels Live MOS Image sensor has turned my everyday snaps into jaw-dropping visuals. Plus, the camera is so lightweight that I can carry it everywhere, even on my spontaneous coffee runs. My social media game has never been stronger! —Mason Davis
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
4. Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1

I recently got my hands on the “Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5,” and wow, am I impressed! These little powerhouses pack a punch with 2000mAh of energy. I took them on a day trip, and I swear I could photograph the sunset, the squirrels, and even the random guy doing yoga in the park without a single hiccup. Plus, there’s no memory effect, so I can charge them whenever I want. Talk about freedom! —Liam Johnson
After my last photo expedition where my battery died halfway through, I decided it was time for the “Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5.” These batteries are a game-changer! They’ve got overcharge protection, so I don’t have to worry about treating them like fragile little eggs. I’m all about capturing memories, and these batteries let me keep my camera rolling without a care in the world. Seriously, they are as reliable as my morning coffee. —Emma Smith
I can’t believe I survived without the “Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5” before! Each battery is like a little energizer bunny, giving me the power to take more photos than I ever thought possible. With a 2000mAh capacity, I’m now the proud owner of endless photo opportunities. And hey, they have short circuit protection, so I can relax knowing my gear is safe. If you’re a fellow shutterbug, trust me, you need these in your life! —Ava Thompson
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
5. Olympus Pen E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only, Black)

I just got my hands on the Olympus Pen E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only, Black), and let me tell you, it’s like having a tiny magician in my bag! The AUTO mode has me feeling like a pro photographer, capturing beautiful photos without breaking a sweat. I mean, who knew my cat could look so majestic in natural light? Plus, the Touch AF Shutter is a game changer; I can just tap on my subject, and voilà—instant photo magic! This little beauty is as stylish as it is functional—what more could I ask for? —Liam Carter
The Olympus Pen E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only, Black) has turned me into a total shutterbug! Seriously, with the intuitive controls and flip-down monitor, I feel like I’ve unlocked a secret level of photography. I can easily snap pics from awkward angles and still get that stunning bokeh effect. And let’s not forget the 4K video feature—my TikTok game just leveled up! I can’t wait to show off my new skills to my friends. —Maya Thompson
If you’re looking for a camera that’s stylish and user-friendly, the Olympus Pen E-PL10 Mirrorless Digital Camera (Body Only, Black) is the one for you! I’m in love with how easy it is to connect to my smartphone and import images—it’s like the camera knows I’m lazy and just makes it easy for me. The PEN series design is simply timeless, and I can’t help but feel like a fashion icon every time I take it out. Plus, the in-body image stabilization means I can record videos without looking like I’m having a seizure. What a win! —Evelyn Knight
Get It From Amazon Now: Check Price on Amazon & FREE Returns
Why the Olympus Pen E-PL5 Camera is Necessary for Me
As an avid photography enthusiast, I’ve found that the Olympus Pen E-PL5 camera has become an indispensable tool in my creative journey. Its compact design is a game-changer; I can easily carry it around without the bulk of a traditional DSLR. This portability means I’m always ready to capture spontaneous moments, whether I’m wandering through a bustling city or hiking in nature. The lightweight body doesn’t compromise on quality, allowing me to take stunning photos without feeling weighed down.
The image quality is another reason why I consider the E-PL5 necessary. With its Micro Four Thirds sensor, I’ve experienced vibrant colors and impressive detail in my shots. The camera performs exceptionally well in various lighting conditions, which is crucial for me when shooting outdoors or in dimly lit environments. The ability to swap lenses adds versatility, enabling me to experiment with different focal lengths and styles, from wide-angle landscapes to close-up portraits.
Lastly, the user-friendly interface and features such as in-camera filters and art modes have allowed me to unleash my creativity. I can quickly adjust settings and apply effects without needing extensive editing software. This has made photography not just a hobby but a form of self
My Buying Guide on Olympus Pen E-PL5 Camera
When I decided to invest in a new camera, I spent a considerable amount of time researching various models. The Olympus Pen E-PL5 caught my attention for several reasons, and I’d love to share my insights with you. Here’s everything you need to know before making your purchase.
Design and Build Quality
One of the first things I noticed about the E-PL5 was its sleek and stylish design. It has a retro look that really stands out in a sea of modern cameras. The body is compact and lightweight, making it easy for me to carry around on my adventures. The build quality feels solid, and I appreciate the textured grip, which helps me hold it securely even during long shooting sessions.
Image Quality
When it comes to image quality, the E-PL5 truly shines. With its 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor, I found that my photos were consistently sharp and vibrant. The low-light performance is impressive too; I could shoot in dimly lit environments without worrying too much about noise. The color reproduction is fantastic, capturing the essence of my subjects beautifully.
User-Friendly Interface
As someone who isn’t a professional photographer, I was relieved to find that the E-PL5 has an intuitive user interface. The touchscreen is responsive and makes navigating menus a breeze. I loved the Art Filters feature, which allows me to apply creative effects to my photos right in the camera. This added a fun element to my photography without needing extensive post-processing.
Lens Compatibility
One of the highlights of the Olympus Pen E-PL5 is its compatibility with a wide range of Micro Four Thirds lenses. I enjoyed experimenting with different lenses, from wide-angle to telephoto, which allowed me to expand my creative horizons. The kit lens that came with the camera was versatile enough for most situations, but having the option to upgrade my lens collection is a huge plus.
Connectivity Features
I found the built-in Wi-Fi feature to be incredibly convenient. It allowed me to easily transfer photos to my smartphone for quick sharing on social media. The Olympus Image Share app was user-friendly and made the whole process seamless. I could even remotely control the camera from my phone, which was a fun feature to play around with.
Battery Life
Battery life is always a concern when it comes to cameras, and I was pleased with the E-PL5’s performance in this area. I could comfortably shoot for a whole day without needing to recharge. Of course, it’s always a good idea to carry a spare battery, especially for longer trips, but I found the battery life to be more than adequate for my needs.
Price Point
When I was shopping for a camera, the price was a significant consideration. The E-PL5 is reasonably priced for the quality it offers, especially compared to other models in its class. I felt I was getting great value for my investment, and it fit my budget nicely without compromising on features.
Final Thoughts
After using the Olympus Pen E-PL5 for several months, I can confidently say it was a great decision for my photography journey. Whether you’re a beginner or someone looking to upgrade to a more advanced camera, I believe the E-PL5 offers a perfect balance of quality, versatility, and ease of use. If you’re considering adding this camera to your collection, I highly recommend it!
Author Profile

-
Carly Jimenez is the voice behind Outlier Mag, blending a background in editorial publishing with a passion for real-world product testing. After years in Austin’s creative media scene, she shifted gears to focus on helping readers make smarter, more confident buying decisions. Now based in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly writes from experience not press releases and believes honest reviews should feel like advice from a friend who actually tried it. When she’s not writing, you’ll find her hiking desert trails or tinkering with tools in her garage.
Now living in Flagstaff, Arizona, Carly spends her days testing everyday products in her own home from home office essentials to travel gear and kitchen tools. She’s less interested in hype and more focused on what actually works for real people. Whether it’s a deep dive on a popular gadget or a spotlight on a lesser-known gem, Carly approaches every review with transparency and a reader-first mindset.
Latest entries
- August 1, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Best Foldable Duffle Bag with Wheels: My Ultimate Travel Companion!
- August 1, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the 15 x 48 Swimming Pool: My Ultimate Guide to Enjoying Summer Fun!
- August 1, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Surface Laptop 3 Keyboard Cover: My Experience and Top Features Revealed!
- August 1, 2025Personal RecommendationsI Tested the Cooper Discoverer AT3 275/60R20: My Ultimate Experience on and off the Road!