The Only Olympus Cameras Worth Buying in 2026
If you're buying a Olympus camera in 2026, the best options are no longer new — they're refurbished. You can pick up cameras like the Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III for under £900 that were used professionally for years. But not every Olympus is worth buying anymore.
Olympus pioneered the Micro Four Thirds system alongside Panasonic, producing some of the most compact yet capable camera systems available. Their IBIS technology is class-leading, and the smaller sensor size means the entire system — bodies and lenses — is significantly more compact than APS-C or full-frame alternatives. Refurbished Olympus cameras offer outstanding value, particularly for travel and outdoor photographers. The brand's legacy continues under the OM System name, but the Olympus-branded bodies remain widely available and fully supported.
Lens Ecosystem Note
Micro Four Thirds is a shared standard between Olympus and Panasonic, meaning lenses from both brands work on either system.
Key Strengths
- World-class in-body image stabilisation
- Compact, weather-sealed bodies
- Extensive Micro Four Thirds lens ecosystem
- Excellent macro capabilities
Best For
Travel, macro, outdoor/adventure photography
Which Olympus is right for you?
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II
Best Value
Typical Refurb Price
£300 – £500
Olympus Mju II
Best Overall
Typical Refurb Price
£200 – £350
Popular Olympus cameras worth buying right now
Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III
Typical Refurb Price
£600 – £950
Shutter Life
400k actuations
Key Features
- 7.5-stop IBIS
- IP53 weather sealing
- Handheld high-res shot mode
- Pro capture mode
Watch Out For
- Check IBIS mechanism
- Verify Pro Capture mode functions
Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II
Typical Refurb Price
£450 – £700
Shutter Life
400k actuations
Key Features
- 5-axis IBIS
- IP67 weather sealing
- Dual SD card slots
- 4K video
Watch Out For
- Check IBIS mechanism
- Inspect weather seals around ports
Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II
Typical Refurb Price
£200 – £350
Shutter Life
100k actuations
Key Features
- Compact weather-sealed body
- 3-axis IBIS
- 4K video
- Excellent value
Watch Out For
- Check IBIS mechanism
- Inspect weather seals
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II
Typical Refurb Price
£300 – £500
Shutter Life
150k actuations
Key Features
- Compact weather-sealed body
- 5-axis IBIS
- 4K video
- Excellent stabilisation
Watch Out For
- Check IBIS mechanism
- Inspect weather seals
Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III
Typical Refurb Price
£450 – £700
Shutter Life
200k actuations
Key Features
- Compact weather-sealed body
- 5-axis IBIS
- 4K video
- Tilting touchscreen
Watch Out For
- Single card slot
- Check tilting screen hinge
What most people get wrong about Olympus
Buying the newest model
The latest Olympus isn't always the best value. Older flagships often outperform newer entry-level bodies and cost significantly less on the used market.
Ignoring shutter count
A Olympus with 80,000 actuations is a better buy than one with 150,000, even if the price is similar. Always ask for shutter count before purchasing.
Overlooking ecosystem costs
Buying a Olympus body is just the start. Factor in the cost of lenses and accessories before committing to the system.
Quick specs comparison
| Model | Type | Sensor | Typical Price | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III | Mirrorless | Micro Four Thirds Live MOS | £600–£950 | 7.5-stop IBIS |
| Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark II | Mirrorless | Micro Four Thirds Live MOS | £450–£700 | 5-axis IBIS |
| Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark II | Mirrorless | Micro Four Thirds Live MOS | £200–£350 | Compact weather-sealed body |
| Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark II | Mirrorless | Micro Four Thirds Live MOS | £300–£500 | Compact weather-sealed body |
| Olympus OM-D E-M5 Mark III | Mirrorless | Micro Four Thirds Live MOS | £450–£700 | Compact weather-sealed body |