Recently, camera manufacturers have criminally neglected entry-level cameras. As a result, hardly any new models have come onto the market that are available from specialist retailers for less than 1000 euros - let alone for less than 500 euros. In the days of DSLRs, the choice in this price range was much greater...

The Olympus Pen E-P7 is a classically designed pen with modern features. With its 20 megapixel sensor and image stabilisation, it has important features and can also compete with some OM-D cameras. However, it doesn't have a viewfinder - if you need one, you should perhaps take a look at the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, which is available at a comparable price...

The Olympus Pen E-P7 is a classically designed pen with modern features. With its 20 megapixel sensor and image stabilisation, it has important features and can also compete with some OM-D cameras. However, it doesn't have a viewfinder - if you need one, you should perhaps take a look at the OM-D E-M10 Mark IV, which is available at a comparable price...

With simple operation despite many setting options and good photo quality, the Olympus Pen E-P7 just manages to get a good grade. However, action fans would be better off with a different camera - the autofocus is responsive and accurate, but the focus tracking is not convincing.

In terms of image quality, the E-P7 is not surprising. It reaches the typical level of a 20 MP Olympus camera, but can overtake the technology donor E-M10IV in the end thanks to optimisation of the signal processing. The camera delivers good quality up to ISO 800, but loses ground from ISO 1600...

They are both chic, but both models also have weaknesses. The Olympus E-P7 looks a little dusty. Its housing has to make do with a display that can only be tilted. An old USB port spoils the impression and the image quality is not convincing at high sensitivities. The E-P7 is pleasantly compact; the diverse programmes encourage creative experimentation...