shinndigg

I stepped up from an EM 10 MKI and EM 1 MKI  to an EM 10 MK IV. The upgrade is worthwhile. The images are a bit sharper and definitely more detailed.

Indeed... I have a  TTARTISAN 50mm f1.2. Though it's a bit soft wide open, it can be sharpened up. The bigger adjustment is getting used to the shallower DOF

That 6 you won't need pain relief because of your camera bag... But seriously....since you arent6a pro, it's unlikely you will miss anything. Heck, there are pros who use m43rds... It's a great ...

Pretty much nails it

Pocketable would leave 3 modern choices... Olympus Pen F, probably more difficult to find than that EX4 and either the Panasonic GX 80/85 or GX9, though the Olympus EM 10 series are pretty small.

I imagine the O'Douls is part of the travel package as well? 😜

Like you, I prefer to reduce e-waste when feasible. If you are state side, Keh, MPB or usedphotopro may be options for used chargers and perhaps batteries

You will get all that and more. Having a proper camera will open up the creative juices, with the potential to bring a lot of joy

Can you rent?

Whatever

And no doubt there have been so.e who have purchased the Olympus for much less than $299 new. So yes, exaggeration

... At BH Photo, the Olympus is $299 new, the Panasonic is $147, after $100 off, though that price for the Panna is the more frequent price. So 3x is exaggerated. That being said, the Panasonic ...

...is the only one I can speak on. I had one and loved it. I traded that and an Olympus 45 1.8 as well as some other gear to purchase newer and more versatile equipment. And sorely wish I still had ...

I purchased an EM I  MK I fairly cheaply. The right lug came loose. I emailed OMDS and asked if they would repair it for free. They said yes! And it was turned arou d in less than two weeks, IIRC.

Same... So does usedphotopro.com  (Roberts Camera)

High praise I certainly am not worthy of!

...I purchase either used or refurbished, and had an issue with only one. That was from eBay. I've purchased from KEH (highly recommended) and usedphotopro. Both have been great experiences. Regard ...

shinndigg www.pbase.com/shinndigg

Downgrades? None that I can think of off hand. The ibis is noticeably improved. Output seems to be more detailed as well. I also like that the control layout is more like my EM 1.

...I'd suggest the EM 10 MK IV. I have owned the MK I version for years. I purchased the MK IV last year. Same battery, notable upgrade with the sensor. I have no regrets