Affordably priced performance with OM-D styling
Previously only available for purchase in Japan, the Olympus Stylus 1s may look like part of the brand’s OM-D line of CSCs, but it’s a surprisingly slender compact with a retractable f/2.8 optical zoom. An update on 2013’s popular Stylus 1, the 1s gains an improved battery life, enhanced features and a re-textured grip. At 12MP the camera’s resolution may be the lowest in this roundup, but it does ensure that despite its smaller 1/1.7in size, its back-illuminated CMOS sensor maximises its light-gathering capabilities. It’s still more than able to provide quality prints at sizes easily large enough for the average user.
With a focal length that ranges from 6-64.3mm (28-300mm full-frame equivalent), the camera’s retracting lens is well suited to most subjects, including landscapes and wildlife. While the image quality produced by the camera is substantially better than that of many cheaper compacts, the sharpness of the lens does lack the quality of some of the others in this group. It does, however, benefit from a lens-shift image stabilisation system, helping the camera produce shake-free shots at slower shutter speeds. This dramatically improves its suitability for use in low light. The camera offers an ISO range of 100-12,800, and with its True Pic VI processor it boasts a top burst speed of 7fps.
The contrast detect autofocus of the camera is both super speedy and accurate. The 1s has focus tracking, face detection and a Super Macro Mode with which the camera will focus at an impressive 5cm. Added to the original Stylus 1 as part of a firmware update, the 1s also has a Small Target option for pinpoint AF, focus peaking, interval shooting and time-lapse video recording straight out of the box. Standard video can be shot in Full HD (1080p) at a slightly disappointing 30fps, rather than 60fps.
A 1440k-dot EVF provides bright 100% coverage of the frame, a diopter and eye-sensor. On the rear of the camera is a 3in 1040k-dot touchscreen with a tilt mechanism for shooting at more testing angles. This screen can be used for touch focus and touch shutter, but allows only limited fingertip menu navigation. A range of dedicated buttons and dials and a front control ring make operating the camera a breeze. The Stylus 1s has Wi-Fi for remote shooting and image transfer, and NFC for establishing a speedy connection. A hot shoe sits above the camera’s EVF, complementing the in-built flash. The battery life of the Stylus 1 has been boosted by roughly 10%, meaning the 1s provides 450 shots from one full charge.
Verdict
Despite a solid build that rivals many more expensive options, the Olympus Stylus 1s has the lowest price-tag in our roundup. While it fails to match the image quality provided by the others, it still delivers respectable results that will blow smaller-sensor compacts out of the water. At £379 it’s an affordable offering for those who want flexibility and decent performance on a budget.
Specs
Camera: Olympus Stylus 1s
Lens: 6-64.3mm f/2.8
Price: £379
Effective resolution: 12MP
Sensor: 7.6x5.7mm BSI CMOS
LCD: 3in 1040k-dot tiltable touchscreen
EVF: 1440k-dot with eye sensor
Autofocus: Contrast
ISO: 100-12,800
Shooting speed: 7fps for 25 RAW files
Video: Full HD (1080p) at 30fps
Battery life: 450 shots
Size (WxHxD): 116x87x57mm
Weight: 402g