Originally posted by Pål Jensen But optical viewfinder already got all this without using electricity. What exact problem are you solving with an electronic viewfinder except for slightly smaller size?
In addition you got the large LCD screen on your camera where you can do all the fancy stuff.
I am not an engineer but even an engineer would be guessing. Similar to speculating how much data can be put on future versions of DVDs or compact memory cards. There is a clear trend, but how far and how fast will it go?
However, I personally believe that advanced EVF combined with an advanced contrast detect AF system will offer within 1.5 to 3 years (less than 5) the following advantages:
1) probably lower cost once technology is developed. so you can spend more on the sensor
2) more reliable and consistent AF with any brand of lens (no custom AF adjustments needed)
3) virtually unlimited AF point selection
4) lower weight because of no prism glass or mirror assembly (although may need larger battery)
5) slightly smaller size if that is desired
5) AF with video (this seems to be attractive to some)
6) better manual focus with hi rez + magnification
7) low light focus eventually will match phase detect - not sure if it can exceed
8) much quieter with low, low vibration
9) option of smaller lens registration distance IF this is an advantage - not sure it really is
10) 100% viewfinder at lower cost and any magnification
DOWN SIDE
1) actual resolution of EVF will never be as good as a top of the line OVF
the best it can be is sort of, almost as good, but the above is a big list of positives
I want the best total system that will deliver the best photos I can get. I do not really need to spend extra $ to ooh and aah in my OVF. I will do that later.