If you’re a photography enthusiast, selecting the appropriate camera is crucial. The market today has two popular mirrorless cameras – the OM System OM-1 Vs Sony a7IV, each with its unique features and capabilities. In this discussion, we’ll be comparing the two models to assist you in making an informed decision on which camera suits your needs best.
In this comparison, we will talk about the following:
- What are the OM System OM-1 and Sony a7IV?
- How is the Design of OM System OM-1 and Sony a7IV?
- How is the Sensor in OM System OM-1 and Sony a7IV?
- How is the Autofocus in OM System OM-1 and Sony a7IV?
- How is the Video Ability of OM System OM-1 and Sony a7IV?
- How is the Price of OM System OM-1 and Sony a7IV?
- Which Mirrorless Camera to Buy?
| OM System OM-1 | Sony a7IV | |
|---|---|---|
  |   |
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| Product Dimensions | 5.3 x 3.6 x 2.9 inches | 9.6 x 6.5 x 6.7 inches |
| Shipping Weight | 7.4 Ounces | 1.4 Pounds |
| Shop now at Amazon |
About OM System OM-1 and Sony a7IV
OM Digital Solutions, the company that acquired the Olympus camera business, has introduced the OM System OM-1, which is the inaugural high-end Micro Four Thirds mirrorless camera from the brand. Boasting a rugged and image-stabilized 20MP sensor, this camera is proficient in high-speed shooting and offers various computational photography modes. The OM-1’s nomenclature represents a fresh naming system for OM System cameras, and it has been launched to coincide with the 50th anniversary of the original OM film SLR.
On the other hand, if you’re in the market for a versatile mirrorless camera, the Sony A7 IV is currently the top choice. While it may not match the sheer power of the Sony A1, the speed of the Canon EOS R6, or the affordability of the Fujifilm X-T4, it does strike an impressive balance between photographic capabilities and video versatility. The A7 IV effectively combines two cameras into one, exemplifying the hybrid convenience that modern mirrorless cameras can provide. Read also: Panasonic Lumix S1R Vs Sony a7R III here.
Three years after the popular A7 III, the A7 IV boasts across-the-board improvements, including a new 33MP sensor, Bionz XR processor, and notably enhanced video capabilities. While its autofocus system may have been surpassed by the AI-powered tracking of the Sony A7R V, it still boasts one of the best autofocus systems we’ve seen outside of professional sports cameras.
Design and Build Quality
When it comes to design and build quality, both the OM System OM-1 and the Sony a7IV are built to last. The OM System OM-1 is a compact camera with a retro design that looks very similar to the E-M1 Mark III. It has a sturdy metal body with a leatherette finish, and it feels solid in the hand at almost 600 grams. The Sony a7IV, on the other hand, has a more modern design with a sleek black finish. It also has a robust build quality with a weather-sealed magnesium alloy body that can withstand tough shooting conditions. As expected, it is a bit heavier than OM-1 due to the sensor size.
Sensor and Image Quality
The OM System OM-1 features a 20MP four-thirds camera sensor, which captures high-quality images with natural color reproduction and good dynamic range. While it may not offer the same resolution as modern digital cameras, the OM-1’s sensor is still highly regarded by many photographers for its impressive performance.
The Sony a7IV, on the other hand, features a 33-megapixel full-frame sensor, which offers excellent image quality with high resolution and good dynamic range. The camera also has impressive low-light performance and can shoot at up to 15 frames per second, making it a great option for fast-moving subjects or those who often shoot in low-light. Generally, bigger sensors can capture more light that translates into a better image quality.
Autofocus and Shooting Speed
When it comes to autofocus and shooting speed, the Sony a7IV is one of the best in the market. The camera features a fast and accurate autofocus system with 693 phase-detection points and 425 contrast-detection points. It can also shoot at up to 15 frames per second with continuous autofocus and auto-exposure, making it a great option for sports and action photography.
However, the OM System OM-1, is not slacking at all because it uses hybrid autofocus and a whopping 1053 focus points that cover the sensor. This new system is an upgrade from the older camera in this collection and puts the OM-1 as an excellent camera for the autofocus accuracy and speed.
Video Capabilities
If you’re looking to shoot video, both cameras are equally exciting. The a7IV can shoot 4K video at up to 60 frames per second, and it also offers advanced features like S-Log3 and HLG for better dynamic range and color grading. The OM System OM-1 also records 4K 60fps, thanks to the new stacked sensor which improves the readout speed. In addition, you can shoot 10-bit in this camera. Check our other comparison in: Panasonic Lumix S1H Vs Blackmagic Pocket 6K here.
Price and Value
When it comes to price and value, the OM System OM-1 is the more affordable option. While prices vary depending on the seller, you can generally find a used OM-1 for at least $500 cheaper than the new Sony a7IV. However, it’s important to note that the OM-1 is a micro four-third camera and models with larger sensors are almost always more expensive due to the component cost.
Conclusion
In conclusion, both the OM System OM-1 and the Sony a7IV are excellent cameras with their own unique features and capabilities. If you’re looking for a compact camera with impressive handling for hybrid users, the OM-1 is optimized for the budget. However, if you need a camera with a bigger sensor or pixels or often shooting in low light, the a7IV is an ideal choice.