Olympus PEN E-PL8 Pro Reviews

The entry-level Olympus PEN E-PL8 ($549.99, body only) was overshadowed by higher-end products when it launched last fall at the Photokina trade show. But it's essentially an E-PL7 with a slightly more retro exterior shell. Most of the underlying interior tech is the same, with a few tweaks here and there. Even though it doesn't offer a bunch of upgrades, it remains a solid performer, if not the best in its class. Our favorite entry-level mirrorless model is the Sony a6000, which sells for less and packs more resolution and a stronger autofocus system.

If Olympus want smartphone users and bloggers to use their cameras instead of simply using a smartphone, then they need to make their PEN range of cameras as easy to use as a smartphone, with an Auto mode that will automatically pick the best mode and automatically switch to an HDR or another scene mode when needed. Where is the "Flatlay" scene mode or an updated basic menu system to make it easier to use? However, saying all of this, if you want an ultra-stylish, ultra-cute mirrorless camera, capable of taking excellent photos, with a wide range of compact lenses, then the Olympus PEN E-PL8 is highly recommended. Built-in Wi-Fi makes it easy to transfer images to your smartphone and the Olympus app is one of the better ones available. It's also an extremely capable camera for those who want to invest the time in learning the menus and options, with advanced options including Timelapse video creation, excellent white balance options, and built-in 3-axis image stabilisation.