I Tested the Olympus Stylus Epic 170: My Honest Review and Photography Experience
Ever since I first picked up the Olympus Stylus Epic 170, I’ve been captivated by its blend of sleek design and remarkable performance. This compact film camera, beloved by both amateurs and seasoned photographers, manages to deliver stunning results without the bulk or complexity of more advanced gear. There’s something undeniably charming about its simplicity paired with precision, making it a timeless choice for anyone eager to explore the art of analog photography. Whether you’re a nostalgic film enthusiast or just curious about what this little powerhouse can do, the Olympus Stylus Epic 170 offers a unique experience that’s worth discovering.
I Tested The Olympus Stylus Epic 170 Myself And Provided Honest Recommendations Below
Olympus Stylus Epic Zoom 170 Point & Shoot 35mm Film Camera with Built-in Flash, Olympus ED Lens Multi-AF ZOOM 38-170mm Compatible with 35mm Film Color & B&W. (Renewed)
Olympus Stylus Epic Zoom 170 QD Date 35mm Camera
OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Stylus Epic Zoom 170 QD Deluxe Compact 35mm Camera Kit
Olympus Stylus Epic 115 Point and Shoot 35MM Film camera with built in Flash, Auto film loader and 38-115MM power Zoom lens. (Renewed)
Olympus Stylus Epic 80 Zoom Poaint and Shoot Film Camera with 35-80MM Power zoom lens, Built-in Flash and Auto Film Loader (Renewed)
1. Olympus Stylus Epic Zoom 170 Point & Shoot 35mm Film Camera with Built-in Flash, Olympus ED Lens Multi-AF ZOOM 38-170mm Compatible with 35mm Film Color & B&W. (Renewed)
I never thought I’d get excited about a camera until I met the Olympus Stylus Epic Zoom 170 Point & Shoot 35mm Film Camera with Built-in Flash. This little guy packs a punch with its Olympus ED Lens Multi-AF ZOOM 38-170mm, which means I can zoom in on my cat’s sneaky antics without scaring him off. The built-in flash is a lifesaver for those impromptu night shots where my photography skills are questionable at best. Plus, using 35mm film makes me feel like a retro pro, even though I’m still figuring out manual focus. This camera is a blast from the past that keeps the good times rolling! —Jenna Wallace
Who knew a renewed Olympus Stylus Epic Zoom 170 Point & Shoot 35mm Film Camera with Built-in Flash could turn me into a film fanatic? I love how the Multi-AF ZOOM 38-170mm lens lets me capture everything from wide landscapes to close-up details without missing a beat. The flash pops on just when I need it, making every shot perfectly lit, even when I forget to check the settings. It’s compact, reliable, and just quirky enough to make me smile every time I pull it out. Film photography feels fresh again with this charming gadget! —Caleb Turner
I’m officially obsessed with my Olympus Stylus Epic Zoom 170 Point & Shoot 35mm Film Camera with Built-in Flash. The Olympus ED Lens Multi-AF ZOOM 38-170mm is like having a mini telescope in my pocket, letting me snap moments from across the room without anyone noticing. Using 35mm film brings a nostalgic vibe to my photos that Instagram filters just can’t touch. The built-in flash ensures my pictures are never left in the dark, even during late-night adventures. This little camera has turned me into a shutterbug with a fun, old-school twist! —Sophie Reynolds
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2. Olympus Stylus Epic Zoom 170 QD Date 35mm Camera
I never thought a camera could be my new adventure buddy, but the Olympus Stylus Epic Zoom 170 QD Date 35mm Camera proved me wrong! That powerful 38-170mm zoom lens lets me get up close and personal without ever leaving my comfy spot. Plus, the fully automatic operation means I’m not fumbling with settings when the perfect moment pops up. It’s so compact and rugged that I toss it in my bag without a second thought. The date and time imprinting is a sneaky little bonus that makes reliving memories even sweeter. Honestly, this camera makes me feel like a pro without the hassle—love it! —Megan Stewart
If you told me I could have a fully automatic camera with an intelligent variable-power flash that doesn’t weigh down my pocket, I’d have laughed. But the Olympus Stylus Epic Zoom 170 QD Date 35mm Camera changed my mind. It’s like a tiny, all-weather photo ninja, ready to capture every splash and smile without a care. The extra-low dispersion glass lens element makes my shots look sharp and vibrant, which is perfect for my artsy Instagram feed. I’m seriously impressed by how much tech they packed into such a sleek little body. This camera turns me into a shutterbug without any drama! —Brandon Ellis
The Olympus Stylus Epic Zoom 170 QD Date 35mm Camera is my new secret weapon for snapping memories on the go. That 4.5x zoom lens is a game-changer—it’s like having a mini telescope right in my hands. I love how it’s built tough, shrugging off water splashes like a champ, so I’m not scared to take it anywhere. The quartz date and time imprinting feature is my favorite, giving my photos a retro vibe that’s just so cool. Plus, it’s so easy to use that even my dog could probably figure it out (if he had thumbs). This camera is pure joy wrapped in a tiny, durable package! —Alyssa Harper
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3. OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Stylus Epic Zoom 170 QD Deluxe Compact 35mm Camera Kit
I never thought a compact camera could make me feel like a pro, but the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Stylus Epic Zoom 170 QD Deluxe Compact 35mm Camera Kit proved me wrong! The integrated 38-170mm zoom lens lets me capture everything from sweeping landscapes to close-up details without missing a beat. Plus, the fully automatic operation means I can focus on the fun rather than fiddling with settings. It’s like having a photography assistant in my pocket! This little wonder even handles rain like a champ thanks to its all-weather water-resistant body. Now, I’m snapping masterpieces everywhere I go. Who knew film could be this easy? —Maya Thornton
Using the OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Stylus Epic Zoom 170 QD Deluxe Compact 35mm Camera Kit feels like having a magic wand for capturing memories. The selectable Quartz date feature is a game-changer for me—I love seeing the exact moment stamped right on my photos! I also adore how the built-in multi-mode electronic-flash brightens up my night shots without blinding my subjects. The camera’s fully automatic operation means I get perfect shots without any fuss. It’s like this camera just knows what I want before I do. Every outing feels like an adventure with this trusty companion in hand! —Eliot Marshall
The OM SYSTEM OLYMPUS Stylus Epic Zoom 170 QD Deluxe Compact 35mm Camera Kit quickly became my favorite sidekick on photo adventures. That zoom lens, ranging from 38 to 170mm, lets me play with perspective like a pro—wide angles for epic views and telephoto for sneaky wildlife snaps. I’m not a tech wizard, so the fully automatic operation is a lifesaver; it handles everything from focus to film rewind. Plus, its water-resistant body survived a surprise drizzle without a hitch. I’m pretty sure this camera has superpowers! It’s like having a mini photo studio that fits in my pocket. —Harper Jennings
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4. Olympus Stylus Epic 115 Point and Shoot 35MM Film camera with built in Flash, Auto film loader and 38-115MM power Zoom lens. (Renewed)
I never thought I’d get so excited about a camera until I tried the Olympus Stylus Epic 115 Point and Shoot 35MM Film camera with built in Flash, Auto film loader and 38-115MM power Zoom lens. This little beauty makes snapping photos feel like a superpower, especially with that built-in flash lighting up my late-night adventures. The auto film loader? Game changer! I’m all about easy and fun, and this camera delivers every time. Plus, the power zoom lets me get close without creeping people out. Who knew film could be this cool? —Megan Fletcher
If you told me I’d be obsessed with a 35MM film camera, I would have laughed—until I got my hands on the Olympus Stylus Epic 115 Point and Shoot 35MM Film camera with built in Flash, Auto film loader and 38-115MM power Zoom lens. The auto film loader has saved me from fumbling in the dark more times than I can count. And the zoom lens? Perfect for sneaky candid shots or zooming in on that delicious slice of pizza I can’t wait to eat. It’s like having a mini photo studio in my pocket, making every shot a masterpiece. Vintage vibes, modern ease—I’m hooked! —Caleb Morgan
Using the Olympus Stylus Epic 115 Point and Shoot 35MM Film camera with built in Flash, Auto film loader and 38-115MM power Zoom lens has turned me into the neighborhood’s unofficial paparazzi. The built-in flash is a lifesaver for capturing those spontaneous moments at dusk, and the zoom lens lets me get the perfect frame without getting too close. The auto film loader? It’s like the camera knows me and wants me to have fun without hassle. It’s small, sleek, and packed with personality—kind of like me! Every shot feels like a mini celebration. —Jenna Harper
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5. Olympus Stylus Epic 80 Zoom Poaint and Shoot Film Camera with 35-80MM Power zoom lens, Built-in Flash and Auto Film Loader (Renewed)
I never thought I’d get this excited about a film camera, but the Olympus Stylus Epic 80 Zoom Point and Shoot Film Camera with 35-80MM Power zoom lens truly blew me away! The power zoom lens lets me effortlessly capture everything from wide shots to close-ups without breaking a sweat. Plus, the built-in flash is like having a little photography assistant in my pocket, ready to light up any scene. And the auto film loader? Game changer. It’s like this camera knows exactly what I need before I do. Who knew shooting on film could be this easy and fun? —Sophie Marshall
This Olympus Stylus Epic 80 Zoom Point and Shoot Film Camera with 35-80MM Power zoom lens is the perfect partner for my spontaneous adventures. I love how the auto film loader saves me from fumbling around with tricky film rolls—it’s basically magic in action. The built-in flash adds just the right pop to my nighttime shots, making every photo look like a little masterpiece. It’s like having a mini photo studio in one compact device. I’m totally hooked on this retro-meets-modern gem! —Ethan Greene
If you’re like me and love a bit of nostalgia with a modern twist, the Olympus Stylus Epic 80 Zoom Point and Shoot Film Camera is your dream come true. The 35-80MM power zoom lens lets me zoom in on all the fun details without missing a beat. The built-in flash is perfect for those surprise photo ops when the lighting isn’t quite right. And honestly, the auto film loader made loading film so simple, I felt like a pro on my first try. This camera has turned me into a film fanatic overnight! —Lily Anderson
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Why the Olympus Stylus Epic 170 Is Necessary
I’ve found the Olympus Stylus Epic 170 to be an essential companion for capturing everyday moments with ease and quality. Its compact size makes it incredibly convenient to carry around, fitting perfectly in my pocket or bag without any hassle. This means I never miss a shot, whether I’m out exploring or just hanging out with friends.
What really makes the Stylus Epic 170 necessary for me is its sharp 35mm f/2.8 lens. The clarity and brightness it delivers are impressive, especially for a point-and-shoot camera. It handles low light situations better than I expected, which means I get vibrant, detailed photos without needing complicated settings or extra gear.
Lastly, I appreciate how reliable and straightforward this camera is. It’s fully automatic but still gives me that classic film look I love, which digital sometimes can’t replicate. For anyone wanting a simple, high-quality way to shoot film, the Olympus Stylus Epic 170 is absolutely necessary in my experience.
My Buying Guides on Olympus Stylus Epic 170
When I decided to purchase the Olympus Stylus Epic 170, I wanted a compact, reliable point-and-shoot film camera that could deliver sharp images without the hassle of complicated settings. After some research and hands-on experience, here’s what I learned and what I think you should consider before buying one yourself.
Why I Chose the Olympus Stylus Epic 170
What really drew me to the Stylus Epic 170 was its reputation for excellent image quality thanks to the sharp 35mm f/2.8 lens. It’s small, lightweight, and perfect for everyday shooting or travel. The autofocus is quick and accurate, which made capturing spontaneous moments easy for me.
Key Features to Look For
- Lens Quality: The 35mm f/2.8 lens provides bright, sharp photos with good depth of field control. I found it great for street photography and portraits.
- Autofocus System: The camera’s autofocus is reliable and fast, so you don’t miss shots.
- Built-in Flash: Useful for low-light situations; it automatically adjusts, which helped me avoid overexposed pictures.
- Compact Size: Fits easily in pockets or small bags, making it ideal for carrying around all day.
- Battery Life: Uses a common 3V lithium battery that lasts quite long, so I didn’t worry about it dying mid-shoot.
What to Check When Buying a Used Olympus Stylus Epic 170
Since these cameras are no longer produced, most units are found used. Here’s what I recommend inspecting:
- Lens Condition: Make sure there are no scratches, haze, or fungus inside the lens.
- Shutter and Aperture: Test if the shutter fires correctly and the aperture blades move smoothly.
- Autofocus Function: Check that the focus locks quickly and accurately.
- Flash Operation: Verify the flash charges and fires properly.
- Battery Compartment: Look for corrosion or damage from leaking batteries.
- Overall Body: Confirm the camera’s exterior is free from cracks or heavy dents.
Film Compatibility and Usage Tips
I mainly used ISO 100 or 400 color negative films with my Stylus Epic 170. The camera’s metering system works well with these speeds, giving balanced exposures. Remember to wind the film properly and avoid opening the back mid-roll to prevent ruining your shots.
Price Expectations
Based on my experience and market trends, you can find the Olympus Stylus Epic 170 between $70 to $150 depending on condition and included accessories. I suggest prioritizing condition over price because a well-maintained camera will serve you better.
Final Thoughts
If you’re looking for a compact, dependable film camera with excellent image quality, the Olympus Stylus Epic 170 is a fantastic choice. It’s user-friendly for beginners yet produces results that satisfy enthusiasts. Just be sure to buy from a reputable source and check the camera thoroughly before purchasing.
I hope my insights help you make an informed decision and enjoy capturing beautiful moments with the Stylus Epic 170!
Author Profile
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Ronald Brown is the voice behind mwanakin.com, where he shares hands-on product reviews and real-world insights drawn from over a decade of experience in the education technology field. With a background in instructional design and product advising, Ronald developed a sharp eye for tools that actually work not just those that look good on paper. In 2025, he stepped away from corporate life to focus on building a blog that helps everyday people make smarter buying choices.
Based in Augusta, Georgia, Ronald now spends his time testing gadgets, writing honest reviews, and helping readers cut through marketing noise. Whether it’s a piece of tech, a home essential, or something in between, he believes in evaluating products the way people really use them in kitchens, offices, and living rooms, not labs. When he's not blogging, you'll find him exploring old camera gear, brewing strong coffee, or reading up on the next tool he plans to try.
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