M.Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II
Weather-sealed standard zoom. Combined with IBIS = 8.5 stops stabilization.
OM System OM-1 Mark II Review
The OM-1 Mark II refines the Micro Four Thirds formula with enhanced computational photography, improved autofocus, and class-leading stabilization. The ultimate camera for adventurous photographers.
🌧️ Ultimate Adventure Camera
The Verdict
The OM-1 Mark II demonstrates that Micro Four Thirds remains relevant through innovation. By leveraging computational photography—50MP High-Res Shot, Live ND, Starry Sky AF—OM System delivers capabilities impossible with larger sensors alone.
This is the camera for adventurous photographers who refuse to compromise on portability. Whether hiking mountains or shooting in harsh weather, the OM-1 II delivers results that belie its small sensor size.
| Imaging | |
|---|---|
| Sensor | 20MP Stacked BSI Live MOS MFT |
| Processor | TruePic X |
| Stabilization | 5-Axis IBIS (8.5 stops with Sync IS) |
| ISO Range | 200-25,600 (exp. 80-102,400) |
| Autofocus | |
| AF Points | 1,053 Cross-type Phase Detection Points |
| AF System | AI Detection AF (Human, Animal, Bird, Vehicle) |
| Burst Speed | 120 fps (SH2 locked AF), 50 fps (Indiv. AF/AE) |
| Video | |
| Max Resolution | C4K 60p / 4K 60p / FHD 240p |
| Internal Rec | 10-bit 4:2:2 (H.265 limitlessly) |
| Profiles | OM-Log400, HLG (Hybrid Log Gamma) |
| Video Features | Vertical Video, High Speed Movie (240fps) |
| Build & Connectivity | |
| Viewfinder | 5.76M-dot OLED EVF (0.83x mag, 120fps) |
| Screen | 3.0" Vari-angle Touch (1.62M-dot) |
| Card Slots | Dual SD UHS-II |
| Ports | USB-C (PD), Micro HDMI, Mic, Headphone, Remote |
| Weather Sealing | IP53 Rated (Dustproof & Splashproof) |
| Weight | 599g (body only) / 511g (stripped) |
What We Like
- Unmatched weather sealing (IP53, -10°C)
- 120 fps burst with AF/AE tracking
- 8.5 stops of IBIS (best in class)
- 50MP High-Res Shot handheld
Trade-offs
- MFT sensor limits extreme low-light
- 20MP resolution lower than competitors
- Premium price ($2,199) for MFT
- High-ISO not competitive with FF
In-Depth Performance
Image Quality & Sensor Performance
The 20-megapixel stacked BSI CMOS sensor is optimized for speed rather than resolution, but image quality remains impressive. The stacked design enables remarkable readout speeds while maintaining low noise and excellent dynamic range—approximately 12.5 stops at base ISO. Colors are accurate with a neutral rendering that responds well to editing.
High-ISO performance is strong for Micro Four Thirds—ISO 3200 produces clean images with minimal noise, and ISO 6400 remains highly usable. The computational High Res Shot mode combines 8 images to produce 50MP (handheld) or 80MP (tripod) files with exceptional detail. This effectively eliminates the resolution disadvantage of MFT for static subjects like landscapes and architecture.
Autofocus & Tracking System
The OM-1 II features a revolutionary 1,053-point cross-type quad-pixel AF system with AI-powered subject detection. The camera recognizes humans (face/eye/torso), animals (dogs, cats, birds), vehicles (cars, motorcycles, airplanes, helicopters, trains), and even insects. Bird detection is particularly impressive—the camera locks onto small, fast-moving subjects with remarkable accuracy.
With 120 fps continuous shooting (AF/AE tracking at every frame), the OM-1 II captures moments no other camera can. Pro Capture mode buffers up to 70 frames before the shutter is pressed, eliminating timing mistakes entirely. The C-AF tracking algorithm sticks to subjects tenaciously, even through obstacles and rapid direction changes. Low-light AF works reliably to -6 EV with the 12-40mm f/2.8 attached.
Video Capabilities
Video features are comprehensive for a camera focused on still photography. Internal 4K 60p recording with 10-bit 4:2:2 delivers professional quality, while 4K 120p enables dramatic slow motion without external recorders. OM-Log400 provides flat footage with approximately 12 stops of dynamic range for color grading. Rolling shutter is well-controlled thanks to the stacked sensor architecture.
The 5-axis in-body stabilization is exceptional in video mode—handheld footage is remarkably smooth, approaching gimbal-like quality in many situations. No recording time limits apply, and heat management is excellent for a compact body. Focus breathing is minimal with PRO series lenses. The main limitation is the 1.5x crop in 4K 60p mode, though oversampled 4K 30p uses the full sensor width.
Ergonomics & Build
The OM-1 II inherits OM System's legendary weather sealing—IP53 rated, tested to -10°C, and virtually indestructible in the field. The magnesium alloy body with extensive sealing handles rain, snow, dust, and harsh conditions that would disable other cameras. The deep grip accommodates even the large 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO telephoto without strain.
Battery life is excellent for a mirrorless camera—approximately 500 shots per charge (CIPA)—with real-world performance often exceeding 800 shots. The BLX-1 battery is shared with other OM System cameras. The 2.36M-dot EVF is fast with minimal blackout, essential for 120fps burst shooting. Overall weight of 599g (body + battery) makes this the most portable professional wildlife/sports system available.
Ideal Lenses
M.Zuiko 40-150mm f/2.8 PRO
Flagship telephoto (80-300mm eq.). Perfect for wildlife with 120fps burst.
M.Zuiko 12-100mm f/4 IS PRO
One-lens solution (24-200mm eq.). Exceptional versatility for travel.
Affiliate Disclosure
We buy our own gear or rent it. No manufacturers paid for this review. We earn a commission if you use our links, which keeps this site ad-free.
How It Compares
| Spec | OM-1 Mark II ★ | OM-1 | Panasonic GH7 |
|---|---|---|---|
| Price | $2,299 | $1,999 | $2,197 |
| Sensor | 20MP MFT Stacked | 20MP MFT Stacked | 25.2MP MFT |
| Video | 4K120 | 4K60 | 5.7K60 ProRes |
| AF Points | 1053 points | 1053 points | 779 points |
| Burst | 120 fps | 120 fps | 75 fps |
| IBIS | 8.5 stops | 8 stops | 7.5 stops |
Recommended Accessories
Essential gear to maximize your OM System OM-1 Mark II experience:
Memory Card
ProGrade CFexpress Type B 256GB
Required for 4K120 and ProRes RAW output.
Battery
OM System BLX-1 (2-Pack)
Same excellent battery for extended shoots.
Lens
M.Zuiko 12-40mm f/2.8 PRO II
Weather-sealed pro zoom—perfect match.
Grip
OM System HLD-10 Battery Grip
Dual battery power and vertical controls.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, for specific use cases. MFT excels where portability, telephoto reach, and computational features matter. The 2x crop provides lightweight telephoto capabilities. For extreme low-light, full-frame has advantages.
Exceptionally. IP53 rating means tested against dust and water jets. Freeze-proof to -10°C enables winter shooting. Combined with PRO lenses, handles rain, snow, and harsh conditions where other cameras shouldn't be used.
Adventure photographers, wildlife shooters prioritizing portability, and anyone needing exceptional weather sealing. Perfect for hiking, mountaineering, and outdoor work. Skip if low-light performance is critical.
In good light (ISO 200-1600), excellent and differences are minimal. Above ISO 3200, more visible noise. However, High-Res Shot mode (50MP) can match full-frame resolution for static subjects.
Written by cameraupick Editorial Team
Our team of professional photographers and videographers has 10+ years of experience testing cameras. We buy our own gear and provide honest, unbiased reviews.
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