- The OM System PEN, announced on September 09, revives the longtime favorite PEN series with its retro, rangefinder-inspired design.
- The PEN is priced at $999 / £849 / CA$1,399, featuring weather-sealing (IPX1) and 5.5-stop IBIS, which are rare in its price class.
- Reviews describe the PEN as a spiritual successor to the PEN-F, stating it is better in every way, despite not carrying the 'F' name.
- The camera is expected to ship in late September/early October in Europe and late October in the US, along with kit lens options.
- The OM System PEN is the first in the PEN series to include weather-sealing, making it suitable for various environments.
- The camera features a 20.4MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and is designed to be a compact and stylish travel camera.
- The PEN is equipped with computational photography features, including high-res mode and live NDs.
The OM System PEN, launched on September 09, is a budget-friendly mirrorless camera priced at $999 / £849. It features a 20.4MP Micro Four Thirds sensor and is the first in the PEN series to include weather-sealing, rated as IPX1 splashproof.1256
This camera also boasts in-body image stabilization (IBIS) rated for 5.5 stops, making it a rare find under $1,000. The PEN is designed for portability, weighing only 17.6 ounces (500 grams), and is ideal for street and travel photography.
Reviews highlight its retro, rangefinder-inspired design, which retains the series' classic aesthetic while incorporating modern features like 30fps Pro Capture and computational photography modes. The camera's dedicated memory card door allows for one-handed operation, enhancing its usability for quick shots.7
While the OM-5 Mark II offers superior weather-sealing and stabilization, the PEN's affordability and design make it a compelling option for enthusiasts. It is described as a spiritual successor to the PEN-F, with improvements in functionality and performance, including a 2.36-million-dot electronic viewfinder and a new battery design that provides excellent longevity.3
Overall, the OM System PEN is positioned as a versatile camera that combines classic design with modern technology, making it a worthy addition to the PEN lineage.
“The PEN is the first in the series to include weather-sealing, rated IPX1 splashproof, and offers 5.5 stops of stabilization. It shares the OM-5 Mark II's 20.4MP sensor but adds subject detection autofocus for humans and pets, though only in stills.”
