Olympus PEN Mini E-PM2 review

The announcement of the new PEN cameras was particularly exciting because they used the same fantastic technology we'd already evaluated and loved in the OM-D. To see that make its way into a smaller, much cheaper camera is really special.

Although the Olympus PEN Mini E-PM2 isn't really aimed at enthusiasts, there's still a lot here to love for those looking for a more advanced camera - such as full manual modes, raw shooting and the innovative Live Time feature.

For beginners, or those looking to buy their first compact system camera, this is an ideal candidate, because you get a lot of bang for your buck.

You can choose to shoot in fully automatic, and learn with the camera as you expand your expertise. Or you may never move on from fully auto mode, and that would be just fine too.

We liked

It's great that this camera now includes a touchscreen, making changing the autofocus point particularly easy. It would have been nice to see this touchscreen capability expanded further into the menu system, but it's a great advantage over the camera's predecessor.

We disliked

Since there are so few buttons and direct access dials, making changes frequently can be a bit of a pain. It would have been great if Olympus could have found room for a small scroll dial for changing aperture/shutter speed at least.

Final verdict

Olympus has once again produced an excellent camera in the shape of the PEN Mini. We can see this being a very popular proposition for first time CSC buyers, or perhaps those looking for a small camera that can be chucked into a bag for the weekend.

That fantastic sensor coupled with some really great features makes this a very desirable camera. The fact that there are now so many compatible lenses for the Micro Four Thirds system is the icing on the cake.