Market Gaps: Where Do Panasonic and OM System Stand in 2025?

In the latest Petapixel podcast, Chris Niccolls and Jordan Drake had plenty to say about the current state of Micro Four Thirds, especially when it comes to Panasonic and OM Digital Solutions. Here are the key takeaways for MFT users.

On the mid-range strategy, the hosts discussed how Panasonic appears to be shifting away from affordable Micro Four Thirds options. Chris said, “They don’t really have an entry-level or mid-range camera anymore. They only have two MFT models.” Jordan added that the G9 II might be their most realistically positioned mid-tier camera, but it’s not marketed as such.

OM Digital Solutions didn’t escape scrutiny either. The OM-5 came under fire for essentially being a recycled camera (the third time it’s been reviewed, according to Chris), but the panel agreed: it still sells, and there’s no real competition in its category.

Jordan described OM System’s strategy as “doing a good job without really doing anything new.” Chris noted, “Their strength and weakness are the same thing—they’re in their own microcosm, heavily marketing to hikers, birders, and outdoor enthusiasts.”

Surprisingly, the old Olympus E-M10 Mark IV is still their de facto entry-level camera, and the hosts believe an OM-10 rebrand is inevitable.

While Panasonic and OM System continue to support Micro Four Thirds users, the podcast made it clear that both brands are facing a gap in their mid-range product lines. Firmware updates and niche marketing can only go so far—what’s missing is new, affordable gear that can attract new users into the MFT ecosystem.

If there’s any hope for growth in Micro Four Thirds, both companies will need to rethink their roadmaps—and soon.