What To Know
- Two popular contenders in the mirrorless camera world are the Canon EOS M200 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, each offering a unique set of features and capabilities.
- The E-M5 II’s more traditional DSLR-like design with a prominent grip and a larger LCD screen might appeal to photographers seeking a more substantial feel.
- The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, while more complex to navigate, provides more advanced features, including a dedicated dial for exposure compensation and a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) for a more traditional shooting experience.
Choosing the right camera can be a daunting task, especially when faced with a plethora of options. Two popular contenders in the mirrorless camera world are the Canon EOS M200 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, each offering a unique set of features and capabilities. This comprehensive comparison will delve into the strengths and weaknesses of each camera, along with the Olympus M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R lens, to help you make an informed decision.
Design and Build Quality: A Tale of Two Approaches
The Canon EOS M200 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II differ significantly in design and build quality. The M200 boasts a lightweight and compact body, making it incredibly portable. Its plastic construction, however, might feel less robust compared to the E-M5 II’s magnesium alloy body, which offers exceptional durability and weather sealing. The E-M5 II’s more traditional DSLR-like design with a prominent grip and a larger LCD screen might appeal to photographers seeking a more substantial feel.
Image Quality: A Close Race
Both cameras deliver impressive image quality, but their strengths lie in different areas. The Canon EOS M200 excels in low-light performance thanks to its larger APS-C sensor. Its autofocus system is also faster and more reliable, especially for tracking moving subjects. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, on the other hand, utilizes a smaller Micro Four Thirds sensor, resulting in slightly less detail and dynamic range. However, it compensates with superior in-body image stabilization (IBIS) that provides unmatched stability, particularly for handheld shooting and low-light photography.
Performance: Speed and Responsiveness
In terms of performance, the Canon EOS M200 takes the lead with its faster continuous shooting rate and quicker autofocus. The E-M5 II, while not as swift, still offers respectable performance, especially when paired with the Olympus M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R lens. This lens is known for its fast and accurate autofocus, further enhancing the E-M5 II’s overall shooting experience.
Video Capabilities: A Matter of Preference
Both cameras offer decent video capabilities, but their strengths lie in different areas. The Canon EOS M200 excels in recording 4K video at a higher frame rate compared to the E-M5 II. However, the E-M5 II provides better in-body image stabilization for smoother video footage, particularly for handheld shots. The Olympus M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R lens, with its smooth zoom action and decent image quality, complements the E-M5 II’s video recording capabilities.
Features and Connectivity: A Balancing Act
The Canon EOS M200 offers a more user-friendly interface and a touchscreen LCD for intuitive navigation. It also boasts Bluetooth connectivity for easy image transfer to your smartphone. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, while more complex to navigate, provides more advanced features, including a dedicated dial for exposure compensation and a built-in electronic viewfinder (EVF) for a more traditional shooting experience.
The Olympus M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R Lens: A Versatile Companion
The Olympus M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R lens is a perfect companion for the OM-D E-M5 II. It offers a versatile focal range, covering wide-angle to telephoto perspectives. Its compact size and lightweight design make it ideal for travel photography. While its maximum aperture is not as wide as some other lenses, it delivers sharp and well-corrected images, especially when paired with the E-M5 II’s excellent in-body image stabilization.
Deciding the Winner: It Depends on Your Needs
Choosing between the Canon EOS M200 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II with the Olympus M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R lens depends on your individual needs and preferences.
Canon EOS M200:
- Ideal for: Beginners and casual photographers seeking a lightweight and user-friendly camera with excellent low-light performance.
- Pros: Compact and lightweight, fast autofocus, good low-light performance, touchscreen LCD, 4K video recording.
- Cons: Plastic construction, limited advanced features, less robust build quality.
Olympus OM-D E-M5 II with Olympus M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R lens:
- Ideal for: Enthusiast photographers looking for a durable and feature-rich camera with excellent image stabilization.
- Pros: Weather-sealed magnesium alloy body, excellent in-body image stabilization, dedicated exposure compensation dial, electronic viewfinder, versatile lens.
- Cons: Smaller sensor, slower autofocus, less user-friendly interface, limited 4K video capabilities.
Final Verdict: A Close Call
Both the Canon EOS M200 and the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II with the Olympus M.Zuiko 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 II R lens are excellent cameras, each offering unique strengths and weaknesses. The Canon EOS M200 is a great option for beginners and casual photographers seeking a user-friendly and portable camera. The Olympus OM-D E-M5 II, with its robust build quality and excellent image stabilization, is a better choice for more experienced photographers who prioritize durability and advanced features.
Answers to Your Most Common Questions
Q: What is the difference in price between the two cameras?
A: The Canon EOS M200 is generally more affordable than the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II. However, the price difference may vary depending on the retailer and current deals.
Q: Which camera is better for landscape photography?
A: Both cameras are capable of producing stunning landscape images. However, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II’s superior in-body image stabilization might be more advantageous for handheld shooting in challenging conditions.
Q: Which camera is better for wildlife photography?
A: The Canon EOS M200’s faster autofocus system and continuous shooting rate might be more suitable for capturing fast-moving wildlife.
Q: Which camera is better for video recording?
A: The Canon EOS M200 offers higher-resolution 4K video recording at a faster frame rate. However, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II’s in-body image stabilization might be more beneficial for smoother handheld video footage.
Q: Which camera is better for beginners?
A: The Canon EOS M200, with its user-friendly interface and touchscreen LCD, is a more beginner-friendly option. However, the Olympus OM-D E-M5 II’s extensive features and manual controls can be a rewarding learning experience for aspiring photographers.
