-
Introduction
-
01.Physical Tour
-
02.Testing/Performance
-
03.Components
-
04.Design / Layout
-
05.Modes
-
06.Control Options
-
07.Image Parameters
-
08.Connectivity / Extras
-
09.Overall Impressions
-
10.Conclusion
-
11.Sample Photos
-
12.Specs / Ratings
-
13.Comments
Olympus EVOLT E-520
This review is organized into 13 pages
Next: Page 1
Physical Tour
Section The Good The Bad
Tour
Solid construction, well designed
Poor latch for memory card slots
Testing/Performance
Did very well in color tests at high light levels
Exceedingly poor low light performance and excessive noise levels during testing
Components
Live View with auto focus, multiple levels of image stabilization
Live View rapidly drains battery; Live View auto focus functions poorly
Design/Layout
Large and comfortable rubberized grip, good size
High learning curve in menu system
Modes
Manual adjustments available even in Auto mode; wide variety of presets
Limited detail in preset mode explanations
Control Options
Extensive manual control options for those who need them
Auto focus only has three points in viewfinder mode, in contrast to the 11 available in Live View
Image Parameters
Customizable quick-access image sizes.
Limited in-camera editing controls
Connectivity/Extras
Powerful bundled software
Proprietary cable required
The EVOLT E-520 is the center of Olympus' three-pronged approach to the digital SLR market. Flanked by the cheaper and more restricted E-420 on one side and the professional-level E-3 on the other, the E-520 is designed to compete with most entry-level SLRs, like the Nikon D60, Canon Rebel XSi and Sony Alpha 200. It is physically almost identical to its predecessor, the E-510, though beneath the familiar exterior are a number of new functions, such as auto focus for Live View and face detection. It also aims to bridge the gap for point-and-shoot users by incorporating a large number of automatic and preset modes, while still allowing in-depth tweaking for those who desire manual control. It’s a camera that feels good in the hand, with a comforting solidness and a good-sized grip. However, all the new features and excellent construction are mitigated by shortcomings revealed during performance testing. While the E-520 achieved good color and resolution scores, it tested very poorly in white balance and low light performance, and producing high noise levels in a variety of conditions. This is unfortunate because, apart from these low test scores, the E-520 is a solid camera, with great features, powerful controls, and the best Live View available in this price range. The camera retails for $699.99 with a 14-42mm Zuiko lens.Shop for the Olympus EVOLT E-520
Latest News
& Reviews
-
02-Feb-2012
Pentax's risky K-01 is like no other mirrorless camera
Pentax has made a brave move with their latest mirrorless system camera: they’ve to ignored all prevailing trends in the space, and announced a new model that strongly favors form over function (gasp!). Read More...
-
31-Jan-2012
Nikon launches Coolpix P510, the world's longest superzoom
The P510’s 42x, 24-1000mm lens leaves others in the dust, while the P310 packs an f/1.8 piece to dominate dark shooting situations. Read More...
Top Rated Digital SLRs
-
$1,049.951Canon EOS 60D
The Canon EOS 60D is a top-notch camera in terms of performance, handling and flexibility. However, the performance of the kit lens leaves something to be desired. Read full 7-part review
$1,049.95TypesProsumerAny Megapixels0,8< 8 Megapixels8,108 to 10 Megapixels10,1510 to 15 Megapixels15,> 15 Megapixels19.00 -
$589.952Nikon D5100
The D5100 is the latest entry-level DSLR from Nikon, with full 1080/30p video, an articulated LCD, and the same image sensor as the D7000. It lacks an internal focus motor, but we found it produced some of the most accurate colors we've seen yet. Read full 7-part review
$589.95TypesAny Megapixels0,8< 8 Megapixels8,108 to 10 Megapixels10,1510 to 15 Megapixels15,> 15 Megapixels16.2 -
$1,174.993Canon EOS 7D
The 18-megapixel Canon 7D delivers high resolution stills and full HD video in a well-built camera designed for serious photographers without the desire (or budget) for a full-frame model. Read full 7-part review
$1,174.99TypesProsumerAny Megapixels0,8< 8 Megapixels8,108 to 10 Megapixels10,1510 to 15 Megapixels15,> 15 Megapixels19.00 -
$1,199.004Nikon D7000
The Nikon D7000 is a powerhouse camera at an excellent price. It offers a huge range of features that will make shooting quicker and easier for the experienced shooter, with lots of customizable options and quick control access. Read full 7-part review
$1,199.00TypesProsumerAny Megapixels0,8< 8 Megapixels8,108 to 10 Megapixels10,1510 to 15 Megapixels15,> 15 Megapixels16.9 -
$565.005Sony Alpha SLT-A55V
The SLT-A55 is a well performing SLR, with a wide ISO range, good color and relatively low noise. . Read full 7-part review
$565.00TypesConsumerAny Megapixels0,8< 8 Megapixels8,108 to 10 Megapixels10,1510 to 15 Megapixels15,> 15 Megapixels17
(add your own)