Olympus OM-D E-M10 | Design

The Olympus OM-D EM-10 is beautifully crafted – just like the rest of the range – doffing its cap gallantly at the film aristocrats of yesteryear. The magnesium alloy and polycarbonate body afford it a sense of quality, though unlike its premium siblings the E-M10 is not weather sealed.

The alloy makes it one of the heavier enthusiast compacts. However, measuring 119 x 82.3 x 45.9mm it’s the smallest in the range and can be worn comfortably around the neck all day, or carried in a coat pocket.

The ergonomics of the E-M10 are excellent. In particular, the optional ECG-1 grip – which sports a textured thumbrest – curves out slightly, so it is easy to shoot one-handed regardless of the camera’s orientation. As it uses a quick release system there’s no need to unscrew it to access the battery and memory card.

The eye-sensor-activated 1.44-million-dot electronic viewfinder gives a 100% field of view and 1.15x magnification with /- 7 levels of brightness and contrast. Meanwhile, as already mentioned, the 3in, tilting LCD touchscreen enjoys a 1.37-million-dot resolution.

The metallic dials and custom function buttons have been thoughtfully placed – there are two custom buttons on the right shoulder and settings can be changed while looking through the EVF – just like a DSLR. It’s also the first OM-D camera with a built-in flash, which nestles below a hotshoe. Unfortunately, there is no accessory port for additional audio options.

In the UK the E-M10 comes with an M.Zuiko Digital 14-42mm kit lens but, having stuck with the micro four thirds mount there’s already a large stock of lenses with which it can be used.