Olympus E-620

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