OM System Introduces OM-5 Mark II

Japanese company OM Digital Solutions has introduced the OM-5 Mark II, a mirrorless Micro Four Thirds camera that represents a modest update of the previous OM-5 model.

Aimed at users working in outdoor and demanding environments, particularly filmmakers and content creators, the camera maintains a familiar 20.4MP Live MOS sensor and TruePic IX image processor. It offers video recording up to 4K DCI resolution at 24p and Full HD at 120fps, with no imposed time limits for 4K video capture—an improvement intended to support longer shoots. The addition of OM-Log400 enables more nuanced control over dynamic range during post-production, and two new color profiles, OM Cinema 1 and 2, aim to approximate a cinematic aesthetic without the need for external grading. A new red tally lamp has been integrated on the front to visibly indicate when recording is active.

The OM-5 Mark II inherits the five-axis in-body image stabilization system that has been a consistent feature of previous OM System and Olympus models. This stabilization is designed to improve video smoothness and still-image sharpness in handheld conditions, and when paired with Sync IS lenses, it offers up to 7.5 stops of correction. The camera’s body carries an IP53 weather resistance rating, which means it is resistant to dust and moisture and can operate in freezing conditions down to -10°C. The exterior remains largely unchanged from earlier models, with a slightly enlarged grip for improved ergonomics and the replacement of the microUSB port with USB-C, which now handles charging and data transfer. However, the USB-C connection continues to use USB 2.0 speeds.

In terms of design and controls, OM System has made minor adjustments. A customizable CP button has been added to the top plate, providing quicker access to computational photography features. These include handheld and tripod-based high-resolution shooting, Live ND filters ranging from ND2 to ND16, focus stacking, HDR and multiple exposure modes. Users can reassign the CP button’s function or use it in combination with the control dials for faster navigation through the different shooting modes.

Internally, the camera adopts the newer menu interface found on OM System’s higher-end models, such as the OM-3 and OM-1 Mark II. This updated layout includes color-coded sections and provides contextual explanations when menu items are inaccessible, making navigation more intuitive. The rear touchscreen can be used to switch between tabs, although direct interaction with individual settings still requires physical buttons. The camera also maintains the “Super Control Panel,” a screen-accessible interface mapped to the OK button that consolidates key exposure and focus settings for quick access.

Other notable changes include a reduction in maximum mechanical shutter speed to six frames per second, a drop from the original OM-5’s 10fps, though the limitation applies only when continuous autofocus is engaged. Autofocus performance continues to rely on a 121-point all cross-type on-chip phase detection system. As well as the previous model, the OM-5 Mark II features a 2.36 million-dot OLED viewfinder and 3-inch vari-angle LCD. Power is supplied by the BLS-50 battery, offering an estimated 310 shots per charge under standard testing conditions. For extended use, especially in the field, an additional battery or USB-C power bank may be necessary.

The OM-5 Mark II supports remote control and media transfer through the OM Image Share app, available on iOS and Android, which now also allows firmware updates and settings backup. For desktop workflows, OM Workspace serves as the main tool for RAW image editing, including support for tone curves, dehazing and AI-based noise reduction.

Here are some sample pictures, courtesy of OM System:

The camera will be released in black, silver and a new sand beige variant, though the beige model is available only as a body and not part of any lens kit. Pricing starts at $1,199.99 for the body only, with two lens bundles offered: one with the 12–45mm f/4 PRO lens for $1,599.99 and another with the 14–150mm f/4–5.6 II for $1,499.99.


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