In many ways, the Olympus Evolt E-500 is very similar to the slightly older E-300 model. Both cameras use a 8-megapixel CCD, and offer many of the same features and options. One such feature is the supersonic wave filter dust-reduction system, which literally shakes dust off the image sensor (35,000 times per second) when the camera is activated.

The E-500, however, has a noticeably different appearance. The camera has a more traditional form largely due to the reemergence of a hump where the hotshoe and flash are located. The E-300, by contrast, has a flat-top design, considered less attractive by most users. The hump on the E-500 has a functional advantage as well, allowing the flash to sit higher and disperse a greater range of light.

For a digital SLR camera, the E-500 is relatively compact. At 5 inches wide and weighing about 15 ounces, the camera has a fairly light, but sturdy feel to it. Like the E-300, the E-500 is composed of a sturdy plastic, which gives it a more professional feel than the Canon Digital Rebel XTi.

The placement of the camera's various buttons and dials are also very similar to that of the E-300. On the top right side of the camera you will find a mode and command dial, allowing you to easily select from a variety of preset modes with your thumb or index finger. In this area there is also an exposure compensation button and shutter release towards the front.

The 2.5-inch LCD on the back of the camera is flanked by a classic four-way controller on the right side and commonly used buttons, such as menu, delete, info, on the left. The four-way controller allows you to navigate the menu and quickly change WB, AF, and ISO settings.

The LCD display itself is quite a marvel, especially if you are accustomed to a smaller screen, such as the 1.8-inch display on the E300. The bright, crisp 2.5-inch LCD really makes a difference - you can actually look through the pictures you have just taken and see each one clearly. The ability to look back on your photos quickly and clearly adds substantially to the usability of the camera. You will find essentially the same display on the new Nikon D80.