Skip to main content

Digital Cameras: Micro Four-Thirds Cameras Explained

We’ve now covered most of the basics in our series of guides to digital and DSLR cameras, some new and some not so new, in the world of digital photography. But there is another player out there in the camera marketplace worth noting as well. It’s a relatively new concept that’s already seen its fair share of success and in many ways has become the bridge camera that all the purported “bridge” cameras before it were not.

It’s called the Micro Four-Thirds System, and besides a needlessly complex/mysterious name, it has a lot to offer. Developed by Olympus and Panasonic to be an original, purely digital standard, it in essence delivers an SLR-like experience in a smaller, more compact format.

micro-four-thirds-diagramFor starters, Micro Four-Thirds cameras have interchangeable lenses – a big deal in the world of advanced photography. They also have a plethora of SLR-like manual controls. But, because of the differences in the inner workings, they deliver pictures with a 4:3 aspect ratio as opposed to the 3:2 aspect ratio of true SLRs. Hence the Four-Thirds name.

There are other distinctions to be sure, but most notable to many of us is their size. Micro Four-Third camera bodies are substantially smaller than that of SLRs, and, once again because of their design, so too are their lenses. They are therefore far easier to carry, though they certainly aren’t nearly as “pocketable” as a true compact camera. Indeed, they aren’t pocketable at all.

There are some real pluses to this brave new format, and early models have achieved some rather favorable reviews. But (you knew there had to be a ‘but,’ didn’t you…), Micro Four-Thirds cameras aren’t perfect. Being smaller cameras, they also house smaller sensors. These aren’t as tiny as the sensors found in compact cameras, but nonetheless are small enough that photos, particularly in low light situations, are marginally noisier than photos taken by their SLR brethren.

Ultimately, with the Micro Four-Thirds format being so darned new, the jury, as they say, is still out. Some are claiming a camera revolution. Others say that because Micro Four-Thirds cameras aren’t pocketable or particularly inexpensive, and because they don’t offer all the advantages of an SLR, they’ll be nothing but a flash in the proverbial pan. Yet the system has big names and big bucks behind it, and already we’re seeing the appearance of a number of models and lenses. In the end, unless you’re absolutely one hundred percent sold on the idea, we suggest you take a hands-off approach for now and see how this plays out.

Editors' Recommendations

Gordon Goble
Former Digital Trends Contributor
The best photography tripods
peak design travel tripod impressions 12

Along with a strap, camera case, and high-quality flash, no photographer’s kit is complete without a handy tripod. While modern tech helps a lot, the best images require a steady grounding, and that’s doubly true at night. A tripod with strong, steady legs provides that firm grounding, and it’s key to getting the most out of your kit.

But the most expensive, feature-packed tripod isn’t the best choice for everyone, and if you only break out the camera on the weekend, you might want some more reasonably priced. The best tripods on our list have a variety of price points, so you can find one that best suits your budget and photography needs.
Peak Design Travel Tripod

Read more
The best full-frame cameras
Panasonic Lumix S1

The full-frame camera earns its name by having a 35mm sensor -- the largest available on the market today. This sensor creates images that are noticeably better in quality than any other camera format. Because of the large sensor, professional photographers usually choose full-frame cameras.

If you are looking for a camera that produces the highest quality images, then the full-frame camera might be what you need -- like the Sony A7R IV because of it's high resolution. These cameras not just for professionals. Full frame cameras are suitable for a wide range of photographers and budgets. Here’s a list of the best full-frame cameras for 2020.

Read more
The best iPhone camera accessories for 2022
best iPhone camera accessories

For many, the iPhone is a camera that also makes phone calls. The camera has improved greatly over the years, as have the third-party gadgets designed to improve your iPhoneography. From lenses and lights to gimbals and microphones, the right accessories can take the camera you have in your pocket and make it even more accurate and flexible. Here are the best iPhone camera accessories to take your mobile photography (and video) to the next level.

Pro tip: Shooting photos and videos on your iPhone can be very taxing on the battery. To that you have enough juice to capture everything you want, you'll need an external battery pack. We've rounded up some of the best battery packs on the market.
Moment Lens Starter Set

Read more