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Olympus E-620

Discontinued
Reviewed
November 2011
by ConsumerSearch
Olympus E-620

Pros
  • Articulating LCD with live view
  • Image-stabilization built into body
  • Small and light
  • Wireless flash controller
Cons
  • Slow, jumpy autofocus
  • No video
  • Small viewfinder and small 2.7-inch LCD
  • Image noise gets mixed reviews

Reviews say the Olympus E-620 has two main advantages over competing digital SLR cameras: its tilting, swiveling LCD screen and its small size and light weight (1.04 pounds) that make it easy to carry around all day. Otherwise, it ranks as an also-ran -- not only because it doesn't take video but also because of problematic autofocus and image noise even in fairly bright light. In this entry-level class, experts prefer the equally lightweight Nikon D3100 (*Est. $500 with kit lens).

We found the most thorough, objective reviews of the Olympus E-620 at PopPhoto.com and its U.K. equivalent, Amateur Photographer. ConsumerReports.org provides less detail, but ranks the Olympus E-620 in comparison with 23 other digital SLR cameras. The single-product review at CNET is more critical. Reviews at Imaging-Resource.com and DPReview.com add ample detail, illustrations and sample shots.

image
Nikon D3100 14.2MP Digital SLR Camera with 18-55mm f/3.5-5.6 AF-S DX VR Nikkor Zoom Lens
Buy from Amazon.com
from Amazon.com
New: $649.00 $446.95   
In Stock.
Average Customer Review:  
Where To Buy
Olympus Evolt E620 12.3MP Live MOS Digital SLR Camera with Image Stabilization and 2.7 inch Swivel LCD w/ 14-42mm f/3.5-5.6 and 40-150mm f/4.0-5.6 ED Zuiko Lenses

 (78 reviews)
Buy new: $799.99   7 Used & new from $450.00

 
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Amazon MarketplaceAmazon Marketplace rated 2.75 (234 reviews)234 store reviewsIn Stock. Fantastic prices with ease & comfort of Amazon.com!$1,799.00
 

Our Sources

1. PopPhoto.com

Based on lab tests as well as hands-on use, this balanced review notes that the main drawbacks of the Olympus E-620 are natural consequences of its main advantage: its small size and weight. Images are noisy even in relatively bright light, and the competing Canon XSi (now discontinued) offers sharper resolution and better autofocus. (A later review gives the Canon T1i even more of an edge.)

Review: Olympus E-620: Camera Test, Philip Ryan, June 2009

2. Amateur Photographer

This U.K. publication puts the Olympus E-620 through rigorous lab and field tests, concluding that it deserves a rating of 79 percent -- lower than the competing Canon 500D (Canon EOS T1i in the U.S.) or Nikon D5000. The articulating LCD on the E-620 is a plus, as is its small, ultraportable size and weight.

Review: Olympus E-620, Barney Briton, April 2009

3. ConsumerReports.org

ConsumerReports.org compares the Olympus E-620 with 23 other digital SLR cameras, including close competitors such as the Nikon D5000 and the Canon T1i, based on ratings for image quality, dynamic range, versatility and ease of use. Editors also compare camera brands for reliability.

Review: Digital SLRs, Editors of ConsumerReports.org

4. CNET

CNET gives the Olympus E-620 a thorough review, concluding that it "still falls behind the competition on most counts" though the built-in wireless flash controller and fully articulated LCD deserve praise. Image quality is good except for noise, but the camera is judged harder to use than competing models -- many of which also offer video.

Review: Olympus E-620, Lori Grunin, May 2009

5. DPReview.com

This comprehensive review includes ample comparisons with competing cameras. Overall, the E-620's image quality and portability are its strong points; its other features are easily outshone by the Nikon D5000 and Canon T1i.

Review: Olympus E-620 Review, Richard Butler and Lars Rehm, July 2009

6. Imaging-Resource.com

This detailed preview notes that even fully equipped with lens, battery, etc., the Olympus E-620 weighs just 1.63 pounds -- much less than most digital SLRs. However, it requires two hands to operate. The E-620 is judged the best of the Olympus entry-level SLRs, but doesn't make the Dave's Picks list of best choices overall.

Review: Olympus E-620 Hands-On Preview, Shawn Barnett, Feb. 2009

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