The Lumix L10 looks great, but I can't help thinking this underrated camera is a fantastic alternative — and it's half the price

Preorders on the stunning Panasonic Lumix L10 are currently open, and the brand's new model looks like a fantastic choice for those on the hunt for a premium compact camera.

I can't help but think, though, it's still a little on the pricey end. Sure, the premium design, lens, and LUTs arguably make it a compelling alternative pick to the likes of the Fujifilm X100VI. But, it's $1,499 — that's still a significant outlay.

And, when I look at L10, I can't help but think that the Micro Four Thirds system already has some fantastic compact options.

For example, the Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV can be scored for just $699 (was $899) right now with the excellent 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 kit lens thanks to the Adorama Memorial Day sale.

The EM-10 Mark IV is an older camera now, and more budget-oriented than the L10, but I think it's a great value alternative. For example, with the kit lens here, you're getting a very similar range in terms of focal length, a comparable 20MP sensor in the camera, and you're still getting that small, compact retro look.

A fantastic camera for not a lot of cash

Olympus OM-D E-M10 Mark IV Camera with M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ Lens: was $899.99 now $699.99 at Adorama

A $200 price cut makes the latest Olympus OM-D E-M10 a stellar buy right now — especially since you also get a great kit lens included. With the M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm, you're covering a wide range of focal lengths, and the camera itself is a great everyday option with its 20MP Micro Four Thirds sensor. While not a high-end camera by any means, the E-M10 is a fantastic option that shouldn't be overlooked by beginners or experienced photographers alike.

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Is the Olympus EM-10 still worth it in 2026?

The Lumix L10 does have quite a few advantages over the Olympus. For one, the L10's in-built lens features a f/1.7 aperture at its widest, which means you'll get a bit more bokeh and light-gathering capability. The L10 is also a much more modern camera in terms of autofocus, menus, and the various in-built JPEG settings, meaning it will probably be easier to nail that 'film-like' look straight out of camera.

The EM-10 is a great little camera, however. That's especially the case if you're willing to put in a bit of post-processing legwork in Lightroom or the like. You can simply shoot in RAW, then apply one of hundreds of film-like presets that are readily available online. It's an extra step, but you can definitely still get that vintage, retro look easily with the Olympus.

I also think the bundled M.Zuiko Digital ED 14-42mm F3.5-5.6 EZ is a really great deal here. You can opt for the body-only listing for just $599, but I think it's worth getting the kit lens here for an extra $100. It's a very, very small pancake zoom that's actually quite impressive at the wider end, and I've taken some great travel shots with it over the years. The downside of this lens is that it's not weather-sealed, but then again, neither is the Lumix L10!