Best Micro Four Thirds Mirrorless Cameras with In-body Image Stabilization (IBIS)

TL;DR: The Olympus OM-D E-M1 Mark III packs a 5‑axis, 7‑stop IBIS system, a 20.4 MP Live MOS sensor, and a rugged magnesium body for $788, making it a solid, weather‑sealed Micro‑Four‑Thirds option for outdoor shooters.

What really sets this camera apart is its 5‑axis in‑body image stabilization delivering up to 7 stops of shake reduction, or 7.5 stops when paired with Sync IS lenses. The 20.4 MP Live MOS sensor works with the TruePic IX processor, and the EVF offers a 2.36‑million‑dot OLED view with a 6 ms lag and a 120 fps refresh rate, giving you a clear, real‑time preview.

At 580 g (with battery and card) the OM‑D E‑M1 III is heavier than the Panasonic LUMIX G97, which weighs 478 g, and also heavier than the OM System OM‑5 Mark II’s 418 g body. It’s a bit shorter in depth (69 mm vs. 77.4 mm on the G97) and slimmer than the OM‑5’s 49.7 mm depth. Both the Olympus and the OM‑5 claim up to 7.5 stops of IBIS, but the OM‑5 lists fewer megapixels (80 MP maximum resolution from a multi‑shot mode) compared with Olympus’s 50 MP handheld and 80 MP tripod high‑res modes. The G97’s continuous‑shooting speed tops out at 9 fps, while the Olympus can reach 60 fps with fixed focus, a notable advantage for fast action.

Reviewers consistently praise the camera’s rugged magnesium alloy chassis and dust‑/freeze‑proof sealing, noting that it holds up well on long hikes and in wet weather. Many highlight the IBIS as a major advantage for handheld sharpness, especially in the high‑resolution modes. On the downside, users say the 580 g weight feels bulky on extended treks, and some find the menu system complex for newcomers. Some experts point out that the 2020 sensor and processor feel dated next to newer flagships released after 2022.

Best for: Outdoor enthusiasts, hikers, wildlife photographers, and astrophotographers who need rugged weather sealing and strong handheld stabilization.

Avoid if: You need top‑tier low‑light performance, studio lighting control, or the very latest sensor technology.

TL;DR: At $1999.99, the OM‑1 Mark II earns a 4.6‑star rating from 103 reviewers, who praise its rugged build, strong stabilization and fast autofocus, though newcomers may find the menus daunting.

OM System’s OM‑1 Mark II sits near the top of this IBIS‑focused Micro Four Thirds roundup, carrying a premium price tag and a solid 4.6‑star rating. The camera’s reputation for durability and weather‑sealing adds confidence for outdoor shooters, while the brand’s legacy in the mirrorless space reinforces its premium positioning.

Users consistently highlight the camera’s compact, weather‑sealed magnesium body as ideal for travel and harsh conditions. The built‑in image‑stabilization and rapid autofocus frequently earn commendations for keeping handheld shots sharp, especially when shooting wildlife or action scenes. On the downside, several reviewers mention that the menu system can feel complex for those new to the platform, and the grip size may be less comfortable for larger hands. High‑ISO performance also draws criticism when pushing beyond the camera’s comfortable range.

Based purely on price and rating, the OM‑1 Mark II stands out as a high‑end option within the group, offering a blend of rugged construction and performance that justifies its cost for serious enthusiasts. While it doesn’t provide the most budget‑friendly entry point, its strong user approval suggests it delivers value for photographers who prioritize durability and speed.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance

TL;DR: The OM System OM-5 Mark II delivers 80 MP resolution and 7.5‑stop in‑body stabilization in a pocket‑sized, weather‑sealed body for $1,499.99, making it a premium choice for travel shooters.

What really sets the OM‑5 Mark II apart is its 80 MP sensor paired with up to 7.5 stops of 5‑axis sync image stabilization. Housed in a body that weighs just 366 g and measures only 49.7 mm deep, the camera feels like a premium compact rather than a traditional mirrorless rig.

Against the three other cameras in this roundup, the OM‑5 sits in the middle of the price band—cheaper than the OM‑1 Mark II but pricier than the Panasonic G97 and Olympus E‑M1 III. In terms of weight, it’s lighter than the G97’s 2.54 lb chassis and also lighter than the Olympus’s 1.28 lb body, while still feeling solid enough for field work.

User reviews repeatedly mention the camera’s pocket‑friendly size and the IP53 weather‑seal as lifesavers on hikes and city trips. Professional reviewers praise the dedicated computational photography button and Pro Capture mode for delivering creative flexibility without sacrificing image quality, and they note the autofocus’s reliability on moving subjects.

The camera also offers a 2‑× teleconverter effect, a 2‑axis level gauge for precise horizon alignment, unlimited 4K video recording and vertical‑video support, making it a versatile tool for both stills and video creators.

Best for: Those prioritizing quality and willing to pay for premium performance

Avoid if: You're shopping on a tight budget — it's priced at $1499.99

TL;DR: The Panasonic LUMIX G97 packs a 20.3 MP Micro Four Thirds sensor, 5‑stop 5‑axis IBIS and 9 fps burst into a compact DSLR‑style body for hybrid creators at $847.99.

The standout feature is its 5‑axis Dual I.S.2 system, rated at up to 5 stops of shake reduction, which pairs with a 20.3 MP CMOS sensor (17.3 × 13.0 mm) to keep handheld shots sharp. Continuous shooting reaches 9 fps, and the vari‑angle 3‑inch touchscreen delivers a 1.84 M‑dot view.

Compared with the Olympus OM‑D E‑M1 Mark III, the G97 is heavier at 2.54 lb versus Olympus’s 1.28 lb, and its body is deeper (77.4 mm vs 69 mm) and wider (130.4 mm vs 91 mm). The OM‑5 Mark II is lighter at 366 g, while the G97 tips the scales at 478 g, but it offers a larger grip that many users find more comfortable for extended shoots. All three peers list fewer IBIS stops, making the G97’s 5‑stop stabilization a clear advantage.

Reviewers consistently praise the DSLR‑style grip and the effective IBIS, noting the camera feels solid in the hand and delivers sharp images straight from the kit lens. However, reviewers view the modest 1.84 M‑dot screen as only a slight upgrade over previous models, and they criticize the contrast‑detect 49‑area AF system for lacking phase‑detect speed. Professionals also point out the absence of weather sealing and higher‑bit video options, which limits its appeal for demanding videographers.

Best for: Hybrid photo/video creators and travelers who want a compact Micro Four Thirds system with solid in‑body stabilization and a comfortable grip.

Avoid if: You need weather sealing, phase‑detect AF, or professional‑grade video features such as 10‑bit 4:2:2 recording.