They're sleek, powerful, and expensive. What you should know about micro four thirds cameras and how to decide which one's right for you.
A study from the NPD group shows that micro four thirds cameras, while still trailing behind traditional digital cameras in sales, are fueling consumer interest. The research groups Next Camera study “revealed that two-thirds of consumers interested in a mirrorless interchangeable lens camera and willing to spend $500 said it would replace the purchase of a point-and-shoot camera. Nearly a quarter said it would replace a DSLR purchase.” These sleek cameras are attracting a wide range of buyers: From those who have outgrown the simplicity of point-and-shoots to hobbyists that need to round out their camera collections.
As popular as the MFT camera is becoming, it’s still a fairly new device to mainstream consumers, who might just think the pretty packaging is where the novelty ends. But packed inside those throwback bodies is a unique technology that comes with a fairly steep price tag and, as always, a few compromises.
The magic is in the mirror…or lack thereof
If you’re unfamiliar with the MFT systems, you’ve probably heard a lot of different names for the devices tossed around. Labels like mirrorless cameras and interchangeable lens (or ICL) cameras are also fairly common, although the latter is somewhat misleading (DSLRs are ICL capable as well).
What’s becoming the most standard moniker seems to be Micro Four Thirds (or MFT) camera. A MFT sensor size is much larger than your typical digital camera and much smaller than a full frame DSLR’s. However their bodies are much smaller and more compact, meaning there isn’t room for a mirror and prism mechanism (hence the “mirrorless” label). One other notable difference: DSLRs have a device that protects the sensor when you’re changing lenses, while MFT cameras have “dust removal systems,” which mean they might be more susceptible to this type of damage.
The good, the bad, and the gorgeous
MFT cameras are something of a perfect middle ground between big-bodied and button-heavy DSLRs and easily outgrown point-and-shoots. Better yet, they are perfectly suited for photography hobbyists who want to expand their imaging repertoire. As far as hard specs go, the absence of a mirror cuts down on inner camera vibration, so you might avoid what would otherwise be blurry images. The smaller sensor size also can be a plus, because it offers deeper depth-of-field. There are more than a few advantages on leaving the point-and-shoot behind and moving to a MFT device, but they all basically come down to one thing: Vastly improved image quality.
And as they become more and more popular, manufacturers are jumping on board, so you aren’t pigeon-holed into any particular brand loyalty.
Of course, you’re missing out on the benefits of compacts and DSLRs: A convenient form factor and true, top-notch image quality and faster-than-fast shutter speeds. Middle ground doesn’t always mean the compromises you’re making are good ones. Notably, if you choose to upgrade and you buy a MFT camera instead of a DSLR, you’re going to notice it when it comes to low lighting situations and (in most cases) the elimination of a built-in EVF (most DSLRs use live view, which isn’t quite the same. Some MFT cameras defer to a hot shoe accessory for this feature). They also use a different (and generally regarded as better) AF system.
One of the most attractive aspects of the MFT camera is…well how attractive it is. The devices offer a quality upgrade from point-and-shoots in sleek, modern-meets-retro packages. Digital photography has been taking cues from the rest of the technology world and outfitting these lineups with eye-catching exteriors. That might sound shallow, but given the typical $500+ price tag that accompanies these beauties, it’s safe to say that photography buffs and not wannabes are still the true investors.
Which MFT is right for me?
Size: If your pocket cam’s convenient size is the only thing keeping you from upgrading, there are options. Sure, you aren’t going to find a MFT device that can out-mini your current camera, but there are a couple that make valid arguments. The Olympus PEN E-PM1 ($499) and the Pentax Q ($799.95–and the smallest MFT camera on the market) are two such devices.
Price: Unfortunately, there isn’t a lot of wiggle room when it comes to MFT cameras. They generally begin at $500 and skyrocket from there. Again, the Olympus PEN E-PM1 is a popular choice at $499, but it’s also a more muted take on professional-level photography. Another MFT veteran, Panasonic’s DMC-GF3 is currently selling for $699.99. Of course, if you don’t mind last-gen models, there are a slew of quality options on Amazon and eBay: We found the Sony NEX-3 selling for $408.98, the Sony NEX-5 for around $599, and the Olympus PEN E-P2 for $469.
Performance: If money is no object, considering the doors blown wide open. The Sony NEX-7 is the latest in the extremely popular and well-rated lineup, and will cost you $1,199. Olympus’ PEN series has reached similar regard and the E-P3 is no exception. The camera improves on all the little kinks and glitches from its predecessors in the same stylish package—and comes with an $899.99 price tag.
What to hold out for: Up until very recently, there have been two notable holdouts when it comes to MFT cameras—veterans Canon and Nikon. However Nikon recently announced the 1 series, and the flagship V1 model will debut sometime this month for $899.95 (the J1 will cost $649.99 and is a pared down version of the two). Panasonic is also expected to debut a new MFT camera soon, and Mu-43 was able to get its hands on a leaked image showing off the GX1. Not a whole lot is known about the camera, except that we may see it officially announced shortly and it looks to be a bump up from former MFT devices from Panasonic.
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