Mastering the Art of Photography: Canon EOS 80D vs Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III Reviewed

Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mid-range market are the Canon EOS 80D with its accompanying Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM lens and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III. Both cameras offer impressive features and capabilities, but which one comes out on top? This comprehensive comparison delves into the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, helping you make an informed decision based on your individual needs and preferences.

Image Quality and Sensor Performance

The Canon EOS 80D boasts a 24.2MP APS-C CMOS sensor, delivering excellent image quality with good dynamic range and low noise performance. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, on the other hand, packs a 20.4MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, offering a slightly smaller sensor size but still producing impressive results.
Canon EOS 80D:

• Pros: Larger sensor size, higher resolution, good dynamic range, excellent low-light performance.
• Cons: Slightly larger file sizes.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III:

• Pros: Compact size, excellent image stabilization, high-resolution shooting modes.
• Cons: Smaller sensor size, lower resolution compared to the Canon EOS 80D.

Autofocus and Performance

Both cameras excel in autofocus performance, thanks to their advanced autofocus systems. The Canon EOS 80D utilizes a 45-point all cross-type autofocus system, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III features a 121-point all cross-type autofocus system.
Canon EOS 80D:

• Pros: Fast and reliable autofocus, good tracking performance.
• Cons: Can struggle in low-light conditions.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III:

• Pros: Excellent autofocus accuracy and speed, impressive subject tracking.
• Cons: None significant.

Video Capabilities

Both cameras are capable of recording high-quality video. The Canon EOS 80D can record 1080p video at 60fps, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III can record 4K video at 30fps.
Canon EOS 80D:

• Pros: Good video quality, excellent audio recording.
• Cons: Limited 4K video recording capabilities.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III:

• Pros: 4K video recording, advanced video features, excellent image stabilization.
• Cons: Limited 4K video recording frame rate options.

Design and Ergonomics

The Canon EOS 80D features a traditional DSLR design with a deep grip and a well-placed viewfinder. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, being a mirrorless camera, boasts a more compact and lightweight design.
Canon EOS 80D:

• Pros: Comfortable grip, well-placed controls, large viewfinder.
• Cons: Bulky size, heavier weight.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III:

• Pros: Compact and lightweight design, weather-sealed body, excellent EVF.
• Cons: Smaller grip, some controls may feel cramped.

Lens Selection and Compatibility

The Canon EOS 80D benefits from a vast ecosystem of Canon EF and EF-S lenses, offering a wide range of options for different shooting styles. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III utilizes the Micro Four Thirds system, which also boasts a diverse lens selection, although it’s smaller than Canon’s offering.
Canon EOS 80D:

• Pros: Extensive lens selection, affordable options available.
• Cons: Some lenses can be bulky and heavy.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III:

• Pros: Compact and lightweight lenses, excellent image stabilization in most lenses.
• Cons: Smaller lens selection compared to Canon.

Battery Life and Connectivity

The Canon EOS 80D offers a respectable battery life, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III provides a slightly longer battery life. Both cameras offer excellent connectivity options, including Wi-Fi, Bluetooth, and USB.
Canon EOS 80D:

• Pros: Good battery life, reliable connectivity.
• Cons: None significant.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III:

• Pros: Longer battery life, excellent connectivity, USB-C charging.
• Cons: None significant.

The Verdict: Which Camera Wins?

Ultimately, the best camera for you depends on your specific needs and preferences.
Canon EOS 80D with Canon EF-S 18-135mm f/3.5-5.6 IS USM:

• Best for: Photographers seeking a traditional DSLR experience with excellent image quality and a vast lens selection.
• Ideal for: Portrait, landscape, wildlife, and general photography.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III:

• Best for: Photographers who value portability, advanced features, and exceptional image stabilization.
• Ideal for: Street photography, travel, wildlife, and low-light photography.

Beyond the Specs: A Deeper Look

While the technical specifications provide a good starting point, it’s important to consider the bigger picture. The Canon EOS 80D offers a familiar and comfortable DSLR experience, catering to those who prefer a traditional shooting style. The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, on the other hand, embraces the future with its mirrorless design, advanced features, and compact size.
Canon EOS 80D:

• Pros: Familiar DSLR design, larger sensor, affordable lens options.
• Cons: Bulky size, limited 4K video capabilities.

Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III:

• Pros: Compact and lightweight, exceptional image stabilization, advanced features.
• Cons: Smaller sensor, limited 4K video frame rate options.

Final Thoughts: Choosing Your Perfect Companion

Both the Canon EOS 80D and the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III are fantastic cameras with their own strengths and weaknesses. The Canon EOS 80D excels in image quality, affordability, and lens selection, while the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III shines with its portability, advanced features, and exceptional image stabilization. Ultimately, the choice comes down to your individual needs and priorities.

Answers to Your Most Common Questions

Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: Both cameras are suitable for beginners, but the Canon EOS 80D might be slightly easier to learn due to its familiar DSLR design and extensive resources available online.
Q: Which camera has better image stabilization?
A: The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III offers superior image stabilization thanks to its in-body stabilization system.
Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: Both cameras are capable of wildlife photography, but the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III‘s excellent image stabilization and autofocus performance give it an edge in this category.
Q: Which camera is more affordable?
A: The Canon EOS 80D is generally more affordable than the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III, especially when considering the cost of lenses.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III offers more advanced video recording features, including 4K video recording, although the Canon EOS 80D’s audio recording quality is excellent.