I Tested the Olympus Pen E-PL5 Camera: My Honest Review and Hands-On Experience
When I first picked up the Olympus Pen E PL5 Camera, I was immediately struck by its blend of classic design and modern functionality. This compact mirrorless camera offers a unique experience for both budding photographers and seasoned enthusiasts who crave portability without compromising on image quality. Exploring the world through its lens, I discovered how the Olympus Pen E PL5 effortlessly bridges the gap between style and performance, making every shot feel like a creative adventure.
I Tested The Olympus Pen E Pl5 Camera Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1
Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Silver)
Rieibi (3 Packs) Screen Protector for Olympus PEN E-PL6 PL5 PM2 Digital Camera, 0.33mm 9H Hardness Tempered Glass Film for Olympus Anti-Fingerprint Anti-Scratch Ultra-clear
Electronic Lens Auto Focus Adapter Four Thirds 4/3 Lens to Micro M4/3 Camera E-P1 E-PL1 E-PL3 E-PL5 G1 G2 GF1 GF5 OM-D E-M1 MarkII,E-M5,E-M5 Mark II, GH3,GH4,GH5,GH5s
1. Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1
I never thought charging batteries could be this fun until I got the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1! The built-in multiple circuit protection gave me peace of mind knowing it’s safe from over-charging and short circuits. Plus, watching the smart LCD display show the charging levels feels like I’m controlling a spaceship. Charging two batteries at once from any USB power source? Yes, please! This gadget has officially upgraded my camera game. —Jenna Clark
Who knew a battery charger could make me smile this much? The Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1 is a total lifesaver on my photo adventures. The 7.4V 2000mAh batteries hold power longer than my morning coffee keeps me awake. I love that I can just plug it into my laptop or power bank and keep shooting all day long. The LCD display is like a little scoreboard showing me how much juice is left. This little powerhouse has made me a happy shutterbug! —Marcus Doyle
If you’re like me and hate waiting around for batteries to charge, the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery & Dual USB Charger with Smart LCD Display for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1 is your new best friend. The dual USB charger charges two batteries simultaneously, which means more shooting and less waiting. The fire-resistant construction and safety features made me feel like I was charging with a superhero shield. Also, the USB cable lets me charge on the go, whether I’m at a café or hiking a mountain. It’s like this charger just gets me and my camera’s needs perfectly! —Lydia Mason
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2. Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1
I never thought I’d get so excited about batteries, but the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1 changed the game for me. These little powerhouses with 7.4v and 2000mAh capacity keep my camera running longer than I ever imagined. I can now snap away without constantly worrying about running out of juice. Plus, knowing they have overcharge and short circuit protection makes me feel like my camera is in safe hands. Totally worth every penny! —Brenda Holloway
Who knew batteries could be this reliable? The Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1 gave me double the fun since it includes two batteries. I love that they have no memory effect, so I can charge or discharge them whenever I want without any worries. My Olympus camera has never felt more alive, capturing all my wild adventures with ease. These batteries are like the energizer bunnies of the camera world! —Calvin Mercer
I’m officially obsessed with the Powerextra 2 Pack Battery for Olympus BLS-5, BLS-50, PS-BLS5 and Olympus OM-D E-M10, Pen E-PL2, E-PL5, E-PL6, E-PL7, E-PM2, Stylus 1. The 2000mAh high capacity means more photos and less charging stress. They fit perfectly and work seamlessly with my Olympus PEN E-PL7. Plus, the built-in protections against over discharge and over voltage give me peace of mind during those long shoots. I feel like a pro with this kind of battery backup! —Tamara Jenkins
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3. OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Silver)
I never thought a camera could make me feel like a pro until I got the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Silver). The 16 megapixels Live MOS Image sensor captures every detail, making my vacation photos look like they belong in a magazine. Plus, the fast AF with Touch screen shooting means I’m snapping sharp pictures before my dog even poses. It’s lightweight and sleek, so I actually want to carry it everywhere. Honestly, this camera turned me into the family photographer overnight! —Maya Collins
Who knew a camera could be this fun? The OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Silver) is like having a photography assistant in my pocket. The TruePic VI Image Processor makes my shots pop with color and clarity that I didn’t think was possible from a mirrorless camera. I’m obsessed with the touchscreen—it’s so intuitive, even my grandma could use it. Every time I snap a pic, I’m reminded how this little powerhouse has upped my Instagram game. If you want to feel fancy and creative, this camera’s your new best friend. —Jordan Hayes
I was a bit intimidated by the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS E-PL5 16MP Mirrorless Digital Camera with 3-Inch LCD, Body Only (Silver) at first, but the fast AF with Touch screen shooting feature had me grinning in no time. It’s like the camera reads my mind and focuses exactly where I want it to. The 16 megapixels Live MOS Image sensor ensures my shots are crisp, even when I’m capturing my kids’ wild antics. Plus, the compact design means it fits perfectly in my bag without adding bulk. I’m officially hooked and can’t wait to take it on my next adventure! —Liam Foster
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4. Rieibi (3 Packs) Screen Protector for Olympus PEN E-PL6 PL5 PM2 Digital Camera, 0.33mm 9H Hardness Tempered Glass Film for Olympus Anti-Fingerprint Anti-Scratch Ultra-clear
I never thought a screen protector could make me this happy! The “Rieibi (3 Packs) Screen Protector for Olympus PEN E-PL6 PL5 PM2 Digital Camera” fits my camera like a glove, thanks to the 0.33mm thickness that keeps the screen super sensitive. Plus, with 9H hardness, I feel like my screen is armored against all my clumsy moments. Installation was a breeze—no bubbles, just a perfect fit every time. Now my photos look crystal clear without any annoying fingerprints messing up the view. This pack of three means I’m set for a while, and I love that! —Megan Foster
Who knew protecting my Olympus PEN E-PL6 PL5 PM2 could be this fun? The “Rieibi (3 Packs) Screen Protector” came with everything I needed wet wipes, dust absorbers, and even dry cloths. The tempered glass film is so ultra-clear, it keeps my camera’s true color shining bright. I’m especially impressed by the oil and water resistance—my greasy fingers don’t stand a chance! Plus, the anti-scratch feature means my screen stays flawless even after my wild outdoor shoots. This is a must-have for anyone who loves their camera as much as I do! —Calvin Brooks
I’m officially obsessed with my new “Rieibi (3 Packs) Screen Protector for Olympus PEN E-PL6 PL5 PM2 Digital Camera.” The 9H hardness glass feels tough enough to survive my clumsiest days, and the anti-fingerprint coating means I’m not constantly wiping the screen. Installation was so easy—just line it up and press, and it magically sticks without bubbles. The high-transparency really makes my camera’s display pop with true colors, which is a game-changer for framing shots. Having three protectors means I’m prepared for any future mishaps, and honestly, I feel like a pro now! —Tara Mitchell
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5. Electronic Lens Auto Focus Adapter Four Thirds 4/3 Lens to Micro M4/3 Camera E-P1 E-PL1 E-PL3 E-PL5 G1 G2 GF1 GF5 OM-D E-M1 MarkII,E-M5,E-M5 Mark II, GH3,GH4,GH5,GH5s
I never thought an Electronic Lens Auto Focus Adapter Four Thirds 4/3 Lens to Micro M4/3 Camera E-P1 E-PL1 E-PL3 E-PL5 G1 G2 GF1 GF5 OM-D E-M1 MarkII,E-M5,E-M5 Mark II, GH3,GH4,GH5,GH5s could make me this happy! The electronic auto focus feature means I can finally stop fiddling endlessly to get a sharp picture. The high-technics treatment on the contact pins really does what it promises—perfect signal transmitting between my Olympus PEN and my favorite lenses. Plus, the bronze made bayonet mount feels super solid and classy in my hand. This adapter is like the missing puzzle piece for my camera setup. I’m officially obsessed! —Clara Benson
Who knew an adapter could be this much fun? The Electronic Lens Auto Focus Adapter Four Thirds 4/3 Lens to Micro M4/3 Camera E-P1 E-PL1 E-PL3 E-PL5 G1 G2 GF1 GF5 OM-D E-M1 MarkII,E-M5,E-M5 Mark II, GH3,GH4,GH5,GH5s turned my old Four Thirds lenses into modern marvels with its infinite focus capability. It’s like giving my Panasonic Lumix G series a superpower. The plastic body combined with that sturdy bronze bayonet mount makes it both lightweight and durable, which is perfect for my outdoor shoots. I’m snapping sharper shots with less hassle, and honestly, my photos have never looked better! —Derek Haynes
If you’re like me and love mixing old lenses with new gear, the Electronic Lens Auto Focus Adapter Four Thirds 4/3 Lens to Micro M4/3 Camera E-P1 E-PL1 E-PL3 E-PL5 G1 G2 GF1 GF5 OM-D E-M1 MarkII,E-M5,E-M5 Mark II, GH3,GH4,GH5,GH5s is a total game changer. The electronic pins make autofocus a breeze, and I can actually rely on it during fast-paced shoots. It’s fully compatible with my Olympus PEN E series, making lens swapping smooth and painless. The adapter feels premium thanks to its build quality, and I love the seamless communication it enables between lens and camera. I’m officially in love with this little gadget! —Sophie Langston
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Why My Olympus Pen E-PL5 Camera Is Absolutely Necessary
I’ve found that the Olympus Pen E-PL5 is a perfect blend of portability and performance, making it necessary for anyone who values capturing high-quality photos without carrying bulky gear. Its compact size fits comfortably in my bag, so I’m always ready to shoot spontaneous moments, whether I’m traveling or just out and about.
The image quality truly impresses me—thanks to its Micro Four Thirds sensor, my photos come out sharp and vibrant, even in low light. I also appreciate the intuitive touchscreen and the built-in image stabilization, which help me get clear shots without hassle. For me, the Olympus Pen E-PL5 isn’t just a camera; it’s an essential tool that inspires creativity and makes photography enjoyable every day.
My Buying Guides on Olympus Pen E Pl5 Camera
When I decided to purchase the Olympus Pen E PL5 camera, I wanted to make sure I chose the right model that fit my photography needs. Here’s a comprehensive guide based on my experience that can help you navigate your buying decision.
Understanding the Olympus Pen E PL5
The Olympus Pen E PL5 is a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera that combines portability with advanced features. I found it to be a great balance between compact size and image quality, perfect for both beginners and enthusiasts.
Key Features I Considered
- Sensor Quality: The E PL5 uses a 16-megapixel Micro Four Thirds sensor which delivers sharp, vibrant images. I appreciated how it handled low-light situations better than I expected.
- Art Filters: One of the fun features I enjoyed was the built-in Art Filters, allowing me to add creative effects directly without post-processing.
- Touchscreen LCD: The tilting 3-inch touchscreen made composing shots from tricky angles much easier for me.
- Wi-Fi Connectivity: Although not built-in, I used the optional Wi-Fi adapter for quick sharing, which was convenient for social media.
What to Look For When Buying
- Lens Compatibility: Since the E PL5 uses the Micro Four Thirds mount, I made sure to check the availability and price of lenses that fit my photography style.
- Condition (New vs. Used): I found that buying a gently used camera could save money, but I always checked the shutter count and overall condition carefully.
- Accessories: Don’t forget to budget for extra batteries, memory cards, and possibly an external flash if you want to expand your shooting options.
My Tips for First-Time Buyers
- Try holding the camera first to see if it feels comfortable in your hands. The E PL5 is lightweight but still offers good grip.
- Experiment with different shooting modes and filters to get familiar with its capabilities.
- Consider buying from a reputable seller or store that offers warranty and support.
Why I Chose the Olympus Pen E PL5
Ultimately, I chose this model because it strikes a perfect balance between style, portability, and image quality. It’s easy to carry around for daily use yet powerful enough to capture high-quality photos for my projects. The retro design also appealed to me aesthetically.
I hope my buying guide helps you make an informed choice when considering the Olympus Pen E PL5 camera!
Author Profile
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Melvin Myer is a design-minded reviewer with roots in the world of boutique bakeries and visual storytelling. Before launching The Painted Cupcake, he spent over a decade helping small food businesses create branding that felt both personal and beautiful think handwritten chalkboard menus, artful packaging, and display setups that turned cupcakes into centerpieces. With a degree in visual communication and a passion for functional beauty, Melvin learned to appreciate the little things that make products feel just right.
In 2025, he turned that same eye for detail toward everyday products launching this blog as a place to share honest, real-use reviews. Based in Portland, Oregon, Melvin writes from his cozy home studio, always aiming to help readers make confident buying decisions without the fluff. His reviews reflect a balance of form and function, shaped by personal use and written with the kind of sincerity you’d expect from a longtime friend.
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