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We shoot a specially designed chart in carefully controlled conditions and the resulting images are analysed using DXO Analyzer software to generate the data to produce the graphs below.
A high signal to noise ratio (SNR) indicates a cleaner and better quality image.For more more details on how to interpret our test data, check out our full explanation of our noise and dynamic range tests.
Our results from the lab have been compared against the Fujifilm X Pro 1, Sony NEX-7, Panasonic GX1 and Olympus E-P3
Our analysis shows that the Olympus OM-D's raw files (after conversion to TIFF) produce impressive results that beat all the comparison cameras and compare well against models with larger APS-C and full frame sensors. When it comes to dynamic range, the raw file (after conversion to TIFF) results show it produces the highest result so far gained by any compact system camera.
JPEG signal to noise ratio
JPEG images from the Olympus OM-D E-M5 have a lower signal to noise ratio than the Fujifilm X Pro 1, Panasonic GX1, Sony NEX-7 and Olympus E-P3 up to a sensitivity of ISO ISO 1600. However above this sensitivity value the OM-D produces better results than all but the Fujifilm X Pro 1.
TIFF signal to noise ratio
TIFF images (after conversion from raw) from the OMD have a better signal to noise ratio than those from the Fujifilm X Pro 1, Panasonic GX1, Sony NEX-7 and Olympus E-P3, showing that the camera copes well with noise.
JPEG dynamic range
Raw dynamic range
This chart indicates that the Olympus OM-D's JPEGs have a consistently high dynamic range across the sensitivity range, showing that tonal gradations are captured well in the highlights and shadows even at the top end of the sensitivity range.
TIFF images (after conversion from raw) have a high dynamic range across the sensitivity range, with the OM-D achieving the highest result we've seen for any compact system camera. The chart shows that compared against the E-P3 the E-M5 is achieving at least 3EV greater dynamic range across all sensitivities.
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