19 May Maximum Shutter Count of OM SYSTEM (Olympus) Cameras
What is the expected maximum shutter count of OM SYSTEM (Olympus) cameras like the OM-1 Mark II or the OM-D E-M1 Mark III?
The OM SYSTEM OM-1 II, just like its predecessor OM-1, has a mechanical shutter count expectancy of 400000 shots.
Even the OM-D E-M1 Mark III, which was released back in 2020, has an expected shutter count of 400000 clicks already.
They are on the same level like other professional high-end range cameras (of various brands).
What is a good max. shutter count number?
We tend to always go for the highest numbers, when it comes to camera specifications.
But how many images to we actually take and what shutter count is “good”?
If you would take 100 photos a day, with the OM-1 II for example, the shutter should at least last for 10 years averaged.
While some SONY cameras (i.e. Sony Alpha 7III) are said to enable for about 500000 shots, the OM SYSTEM´s 400000 are almost double of what I was used to, when I was still on my full frame DSLR system.
Older entry level DSLR average around 50000 and do not even reach a shutter count of 100000.
Technical advancements will drive these shutter counts higher in the future and electronic shutters extend the operation life of future cameras even more.
What happens if a camera reaches its maximum shutter count?
When a camera reaches its maximum shutter count, it does not necessarily stop functioning immediately, but the likelihood of failure increases.
Actually, your camera´s shutter can function without causing any problems for another 100000-200000 clicks additionally, depending on the brand, model and conditions.
However, reaching the expected shutter count, it´s better to keep a possible shutter failure in mind.
Photographing once-in-a-lifetime moments with such a camera comes with a high risk.
Conclusion
A camera´s shutter count is a good indicator of its age and potential longevity and reliability.
Especially when you are buying a used camera, the shutter count comes in handy and gives you an idea of the amount of photos you will be able to take with it.
However, it heavily depends on the actual number of photos you are taking in the future.
If you are not using sequential shooting modes a lot, taking the camera out only occasionally, even 60% of remaining expected life can still be more than enough.
Coming back to the OM-1 II for example, a shutter count of 30000 is still only a fraction of its expected life and – thinking practical – closer to zero than to its end of life.
Tip: You can check your OM camera´s shutter count via the so called service menu, which you can access after pressing a specific combination of buttons.
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