Olympus E-420 - Expert Reviews

Review summary: The Olympus E-420 is first and foremost of interest for its small size and light weight. While the photos produced by this camera are convincing, image quality (noise control, dynamic, etc.) is a bit behind the competition.

Pros: - Image quality in low sensitivities, - Efficient anti-dust system, - Direct aiming with the LCD, - Direct access to settings via the screen, - Minimal weight and size

Cons: - High latency with direct shooting, - No stabilization, - Only a 3 point autofocus system, - Narrow optical viewfinder, screen doesn�'t turn off automatically, - Reduced image dynamic

Review summary: We put together one of the smallest dSLR systems and found out it behaved more like a compact shooter.

Pros:  Small form factor; Live View with autofocus; scene modes to help beginners get started; Super Sonic Wave Filter.

Cons:  No image stabilization system; autofocus sluggish in dim environment; no dedicated focusing mode switch.

Verdict:  The Olympus E-420 is a good beginner's dSLR with an extremely compact footprint that should go well with travelers. Just don't expect any fancy features for this budget model.

Award: Recommended!

Review summary: Hailed as the world's smallest and lightest DSLR, the Olympus E-420 replaces the E-410 in the Olympus Four-Thirds system line-up.

Verdict: There's very little to criticise in the overall specification and performance of the E-420. I like it's size - it's ideal for travelling and is reminiscent of my old OM4 in some aspects of its handling. Images are generally good too, with excellent shar

Review summary: 'World's smallest' digital SLR gets a revamp

Pros: Improved grip over the earlier E-410 and £170 cheaper on launch, Improved grip over the earlier E-410 and £170 cheaper on launch, Faster operation, while larger LCD screen aids visibility, More consistent white balance performance from shot to shot, Rea

Cons: Functional improvements over the earlier E-410 are relatively minor ones, Functional improvements over the earlier E-410 are relatively minor ones, Two of the E-410's scene modes have sunk without a trace

Verdict: An excellent choice if you want a more professional camera that's still compact and easy to use.

Award: Highly Recommended!

Review summary: The Olympus E-420 is the most 'junior' member in Olympus line of digital SLRs. It was announced on the 5th March 2008, exactly one year after the launch of its predecessor, the E-410. Like the E-410 it comes with a 10 megapixel resolution, live-view and t

Pros: Very compact and lightweight digital SLR, especially when combined with the 25mm pancake lens, Comfortable to hold despite the lack of a 'real' grip, Control panel display allows quick access to most important shooting parameters, Generally snappy perform

Cons: LCD could be a little brighter for outdoor shooting with live view and is prone to smearing, LCD turns monochrome and noisy in low light, Auto white balance and presets not brilliant (but there is a white balance fine tune option), Menu structure a little