Olympus EM1 or Panasonic G7

curiosifly wrote:

After returning GM5, I am seeking for a MFT camera with better AFC capability. At first I don't want to go any larger than GX85. But lately I am thinking maybe investing on a good sling strap would allow me to use even larger bodies. That's why I am now considering the EM1 and G7. Part of the reason I got interested in these two are: 1. they both sell with kit lens that I am interested in (the 12-40 for EM1 and the 14 140 for G7); 2. since both will be replaced by new models, I am hoping I could get some good bang for the buck during this holiday season.

So I'd like to get some opinion on which one would work better for me and represent better value (including resale value too).

First of all, I like small and light cameras. EM1 was used to be considered as too big. But after checking on camerasize.com, its size seems similar to that of G7 and I've personally hand held G7 in store. I still am not sure if this G7 size is something that would prevent me from taking it with me all the time. But it does not turn me off like a high end APSC or FF DSLR and I think I can give it a try. Would you say, EM1 would feel much bulkier or heavier than G7? Or would you say if I am willing to handle G7, then I will be willing to handle EM1?

The second criterion would be AF, especially AFC. In good light, which camera focuses on moving subject better (faster and more accurate)? How about in dim light, which camera AF better (for dim light, I mean ex. at home at night with fluorescent light, or for cases when you need to AF on a face that is strongly backlit)? How about face detection, eye AF? Which camera would nail focus for portrait (with moving subject) better and easier (like continuous face/eye tracking)?

Third, ergonomics. I think they both have enough custom buttons for me. How about the touch screen implementation. Is there any major difference between the two?

Last, durability. I know EM1 is weather sealed. But I don't necessary need a weather sealed camera. I do live in a cold area though and in the winter outside temp could be below frozen. Would that cause a challenge on G7? If I frequently get in and out between cold and hot area with the camera, would I need to worry about condensation issue?

I know there are other differences in IBIS, video, EVF, shutter shock etc., but I don't care too much about them. Maybe a little bit on shutter shock but I guess I could live with automatic e shutter.

Thanks in advance if you could provide some experience, especially if you use both.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=up8K_xd_iwU

Here's a video that was done comparing the GH4 (DFD) to the E-M1 (PDAF). The Oly did reasonably well, but it's clear Panasonic is doing better. Now, there was a firmware update on the E-M1 which some here have claimed put it on par with Panny's DFD.

Now look at this video:

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=3k69P8f-DKg

Go to 7:25, where he compares the GX8 to the E-M1. Again, the difference in single AF is clear.

Furthermore, there have been numerous threads on this forum alone stating bluntly that Panasonic is mopping the floor with Oly wrt AF. I've heard the word "unfair" used a few times.

And, honestly, the E-M1 is your only choice if you want to compete with Panny. Any model with Oly using CDAF isn't going to compete.