Olympus OM-D E-M5 OR NEX-6 ???

[jeniferrice]

I think I've finally decided to just switch to a mirrorless system rather than look for a smaller/back-up camera to my DSLR (that is now broken and repair is not cost effective). Maybe it's broken status is a sign for me to switch.

Anyway, I'm torn between the OM-D E-M5 and the NEX-6. I've looked at my local camera shops and none have these in stock to see/play with. Well I take that back, one had the NEX, but would not put the battery in so I could play around with it. Therefore, I'm needing some advice on which might be best.

I'm mostly an enthusiast - shooting some landscapes, Disney (of course) and my kids day to day life and vacations. I don't foresee myself (at least at the moment I don't) getting into using adapters on the NEX with manual lenses.

I'm looking for a compact system that I'll be more apt to take with me.

I understand that the E-M5 does not have focus peaking or PDAF - will I miss either of these features? I'm thinking not so much on the focus peaking if I don't get hooked on shooting older, manual lenses. Also, I believe it does not have a panoramic mode, but currently don't have that feature either so again, I'm not sure I'd miss it.

If I go with the E-M5, which kit lens is best - 12-50 or 14-42? I like the size of the 14-42 better since it appears to be smaller. Size is a plus in NEX's favor, as the 16-50 zoom makes that camera very compact.

Any input would be appreciate, as I'm ordering online without the advantage of being able to see these in person.

Thanks.

 

[jewood1234]

I was in a similar spot a year and a half ago and went with the E-pm1 Olympus. Never a regret as I feel like I have it with me more often! (Can stick in my pocket and go)

Olympus has better options for glass by far. Lot of people love the Nex.

Good luck

 

[Pea-n-Me]

Either would be a good choice. It will all boil down to personal preference and probably ergonomics. You will no doubt be able to get great shots with whichever one you choose.

 

[hakepb]

If I had the money for an upgrade, I would lean NEX..but part of that decision is based on a desire to try some legacy glass.

I have not yet heard that the NEX6 PDAF addition is any better than the class leading OMD E M5.
It sounds like the OMD might be the better choice for you.

If you are interested in compactness comparisons, this is a fun site:
http://camerasize.com/compact/#375.360,289.332,ha,t

(But I realize there are some outstanding pancake lenses in m4/3, so it depends on what you use)

 

[boBQuincy]

If I go with the E-M5, which kit lens is best - 12-50 or 14-42? I like the size of the 14-42 better since it appears to be smaller. Size is a plus in NEX's favor, as the 16-50 zoom makes that camera very compact..

Panasonic's 14-42 X lens retracts and makes the E-M5 package about the same size as the NEX. The micro 4/3 system definitely has a larger selection of lenses than NEX. Panasonic's 12-35 f/2.8 is probably the best walkaround lens in micro 4/3.

 

[HPS3]

I've owned both and think they are both equally great. If I had to buy one again it would definitely be the Nex 6. I just love using old manual lenses and the Nex has the best viewfinder and peaking for focusing. As far as lenses go, m4/3 has great primes which I love. I had the Panasonic 25 f1.4 which is a must have and the Olympus 45 f1.8.

To me the Nex is just something special. I will probably pick up another one in the future as a second camera. It just doesn't take the place of a DSLR yet.