Olympus E-3 review

The 10-megapixel Olympus E-3 is the long-awaited successor to the 5-megapixel pro-level E-1, the maker's first DSLR based on the FourThirds standard.

Although the E-1 was praised for its tough build and superb ergonomics, the rather lacklustre auto-focus performance was a little disappointing.

Of late, Olympus' range of DSLRs has seen some pretty innovative features, such as the now ubiquitous live view, anti-dust and anti-shake systems. So although the E-3 is somewhat overdue when compared to rivals, as Olympus' flagship model it packs a raft of tempting features in a package clearly targeted at imaging professionals.

Along with class-leading ergonomics, like its predecessor, the E-3 boasts a durable magnesium alloy body and fully sealed weatherproof shell. But the E-3 also addresses head-on a number of criticisms levelled at previous offerings.

First the E-3 boasts a viewfinder with a new optical system, and the result is a greatly enhanced viewfinder image. Although the FourThirds standard with its 4:3 ratio image is squarer-looking than the traditional 3:2 format, the E-3's viewfinder image is bigger and at least as bright and clear as the Nikon D300 and Sony A700. And like the D300, the E-3's viewfinder reveals nearly 100% coverage, a feature demanded by professionals for precise composition.

Auto-focus operation too is greatly improved not only over the E-1 but also over Olympus' latest models, such as the E-410 and E-510 DSLRs. In part this is due to the introduction of pro-level optics using optimised SWD (ultrasonic) focus-motors, but the E-3 also packs a new, highly customisable, 11-point AF focus detection system.

It's not quite in the same league as the D300's 51-point AF system with an AF-S 17-55mm f/2.8 Nikkor lens - but in our tests focus operation was quicker with the 12-60mm f/2.8-4.0 SWD lens. You'll need to use the new SWD lenses to see those gains, but even earlier lenses benefit from a bump in performance.

The E-510 was Olympus' first to boast body integral image stabilisation, and it features on the E-3. Not only does this mean that every FourThirds lens is image stabilised, but also those lenses by other manufacturers. The E-3 even improves on the E-510 by compensating for up to five stops (5EV), which tallies with our tests. The E-3 also has the edge (of about one stop) over the best optically image stabilised systems from Canon and Nikon. Impressively we were able to successfully hand hold the E-3 and 12-60mm (24-120mm equivalent) lens at a blur-inducing sec shutter speed at 120mm.

The Live View features work like most rivals but the E-3 benefits from a pull-out colour monitor. As a result it's smaller, at 2.5in, than rivals but it's still a very welcome addition. Auto-focus is maintained, which is handy for occasional use, and the x5, x7 or x10 magnification options for manual focus are handier still when used on a tripod.

In use, the E-3 feels fast and responsive, and a 5fps burst mode with unlimited Jpeg capture or up to 19 Raw files at a time should satisfy all but the most demanding action photographers. Handling and ergonomics are excellent, the only downside is the row of recessed buttons below the LCD, which require fingertip accuracy to operate, especially when mounted on a tripod. The E-3 also lacks the scene modes found on consumer-oriented DSLRs but they won't be missed by the target audience.

Sensor sensitivity of ISO100-ISO3200 is the equivalent of one stop less than the E-3's main rivals - and images at ISO3200 reveal both luminance and colour noise. Image processing is handled differently than on the E-510 fortunately, with less smearing and slightly more fine detail, but overall noise isn't quite as low at high ISOs as the D300 or A700. Still, at lower sensitivities, picture quality is outstanding. Images are silky smooth and colour rendition is excellent, although we did notice the occasional White Balance inaccuracy.