Backup for EM5 - EM10 body or Stylus1

If you don't need the f/2.8 long zoom of the Stylus1, why not the E-M10? It will give you significantly better image quality over the Stylus1, and also you will save the hassle of changing lenses often with 2 bodies.

 

If you get the E-M10 as a backup it might be as well that this will be the camera you will use more then your E-M5. Some options and customizations are just right on the E-M10. For me especially the FN2 button which can be pressed to change ISO/WB with the dials quickly, I so miss that on the E-M5.

 

Beware that E-M10 uses different battery and charger. For a lot of people this would defeat the purpose of a backup camera for travel.

 

Look for a second hand em5. Handles the same and the same battery... Perfect.

 

I agree, second E-M5. Same batteries, same chargers, same handling, especially if you're not interested in the additional reach.

 

Definitely second of the same body! That way both are programmed the same. You can grab the body that has the most appropriate lens mounted without worrying if a body is the best choice for the scene. Also you know all the accessories work with both bodies.

 

If, as you say, you don't need/want the long end of the Stylus 1, then I would agree about another m4/3 body. And while I have the EM10 and am very happy, and there are some additions that make me prefer it over the EM5 (that I previously owned), there is something to say for the same battery and same camera setups. (And while I love the Stylus 1 and planned on that being my "travel" camera, the IQ out of the m4/3 bodies won out and I will be taking the EM10 instead.)

 

A used e-m5 sounds the obvious thing. If you want to smaller/cheaper, an e-Pl5 would be a good choice too. Same sensor, smaller, cheaper.

 

I'd probably go with another E-M5 as well, unless there was a need for something small, in which case I'd be thinking RX100. Not sure if the OP needs that on this trip though.

 

Hi Mike!

The current U.S. Amazon prices (I dunno about South Africa ):

E-M5 $668
E-M10 $699
Stylus 1 $644

Prices are, of course, body only and do not include local taxes (shipping appears to be free) - so the prices are about a wash.

Given that you want a true 'backup' camera and not a second shooting body I'd go with another E-M5. Controls are identical to your main shooter so you won't fumble for controls when swapping bodies. Batteries and accessories remain fully transferable between bodies and you would only need one battery charger.

Regards,

Jim