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Olympus E-20 DSLR Camera

The Olympus E-20 is a 5.2 MP 2/3 inch DSLR camera — known for its 5.2MP 2/3-Inch Sensor and Fixed Lens Design. Check GearFocus for current availability, with buyer protection on every purchase.

Olympus E-20 DSLR Camera

Olympus E-20 DSLR Camera

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Overview — Olympus E-20

The Olympus E-20 is a fixed-lens DSLR-style camera built around a 2/3-inch sensor delivering 5.2 megapixels of resolution at a maximum image size of 2560 × 1920 pixels. Its native ISO range runs from ISO 80 to ISO 320, keeping it firmly in the territory of well-lit shooting environments. The camera outputs files in sRGB JPEG, TIFF, and Olympus Proprietary RAW formats, giving photographers flexibility in post-processing workflows.

Autofocus is handled through a combination of Infrared AF and Contrast Detection, with a single central focus point, and manual focus is also available. The camera features a burst mode capable of up to 2.5 frames per second. The body is constructed from aluminum alloy, measuring 128 × 105 × 178 mm and weighing 1,048 grams.

A 1.8-inch flip-up TFT LCD with 118,000 dots of resolution aids in framing, while an optical TTL SLR viewfinder running at 60Hz provides a traditional shooting experience. The camera accepts CompactFlash storage, connects via USB, and mounts to Olympus OM-mount lenses. Power comes from four AA batteries — alkaline or NiMH.

A standard hot shoe and built-in flash with external flash support round out the feature set.

Key Features — Olympus E-20

5.2MP 2/3-Inch Sensor: Produces images at up to 2560 × 1920 pixels, typical of early 2000s professional digital cameras in this class.

Fixed Lens Design: Integrated lens assembly in an SLR-style body, distinct from interchangeable-lens DSLRs of the same era.

RAW, TIFF & JPEG Output: Records in Olympus Proprietary RAW, TIFF, and sRGB JPEG formats, giving photographers options for post-processing workflows.

Flip-Up 1.8" LCD: Articulating rear display allows comfortable framing from low angles or off-axis positions without crouching to the viewfinder.

Optical TTL SLR Viewfinder: True through-the-lens optical viewfinder delivers an accurate, real-time view of the scene for precise composition.

Infrared & Contrast Detection AF: Dual autofocus system combines infrared and contrast detection methods alongside manual focus for versatile focusing control.

Specifications — Olympus E-20

Olympus E-20 full specifications
SpecDetail
Use CasesStudio, Travel
TypeDSLR
Sensor2/3 inch
Resolution5.2 MP
ProcessorOlympus Custom DSP
ISO Range80 – 320
AF SystemInfrared AF, Contrast Detection, Manual Focus Only
AF PointsSingle Central Point
Max Photo Resolution2560 × 1920 px
Burst Rate2.5 fps
Image StabilizationNone
Display1.8 inches TFT LCD, Flip-up

Description — Olympus E-20

The Olympus E-20 is built around a 2/3-inch sensor producing 5.2 MP of resolution with a maximum still image size of 2560 × 1920 pixels. It captures images in sRGB JPEG, TIFF, and Olympus Proprietary RAW formats, with a burst mode running at up to 2.5 frames per second. The ISO range spans 80 to 320, keeping the camera suited to controlled or well-lit environments.

Autofocus options include Infrared AF and Contrast Detection, alongside Manual Focus, all centered on a single central focus point. The optical TTL SLR viewfinder refreshes at 60Hz, and the 1.8-inch flip-up TFT LCD with 118,000 dots offers a versatile alternative framing option. The aluminum alloy body measures 128 × 105 × 178 mm and weighs 1,048 grams.

Connectivity includes USB output and a standard hot shoe, with both a built-in flash and support for external flash units. Storage is via CompactFlash, and the camera accepts Olympus OM mount lenses. Power is supplied by four AA batteries (alkaline or NiMH).

Pros — Olympus E-20

  • ✓Outputs Olympus Proprietary RAW, TIFF, and sRGB JPEG formats for flexible post-processing
  • ✓Aluminum alloy body construction offers a solid, durable feel
  • ✓Flip-up 1.8-inch TFT LCD display aids in low-angle and off-axis shooting

Cons — Olympus E-20

  • ✗Very narrow ISO range of 80–320 limits performance in low-light or high-speed situations
  • ✗No image stabilization of any kind — neither in-body nor digital
  • ✗No video recording capability based on available specifications

Resources & Downloads — Olympus E-20

Manuals & Guides

Frequently Asked Questions — Olympus E-20

What image formats does the Olympus E-20 support?+
The E-20 supports sRGB JPEG, TIFF, and Olympus Proprietary RAW formats. This gives photographers both ready-to-share JPEGs and higher-fidelity options for post-processing. Note that the RAW format is Olympus proprietary, so compatible software is required.
What lenses are compatible with the Olympus E-20?+
According to the specifications, the camera uses an Olympus OM lens mount. Buyers should confirm compatibility with any specific OM-mount lenses they plan to use.
What storage media does the Olympus E-20 use?+
The camera accepts CompactFlash (CF) cards as its primary storage medium, along with other media as listed in the specifications. CompactFlash cards are widely available in the used market.
Does the Olympus E-20 have image stabilization?+
No. The specifications confirm that neither in-body nor digital image stabilization is present. Photographers will need to rely on technique or external support such as a tripod to minimize camera shake.
What power source does the Olympus E-20 use?+
The camera is powered by four AA batteries, compatible with both alkaline and NiMH types. Battery life will vary depending on the type of battery used, as noted in the specifications.
Can the Olympus E-20 record video?+
Based on the available specifications, there is no video resolution, frame rate, or related video data present. The camera appears to be a stills-only device.

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