Nikon S31 vs Olympus TG-850 iHS

On this page, we are matching up the Nikon S31 and Olympus TG-850 iHS, both Waterproof digital cameras by rivals Nikon and Olympus. There exists a significant gap between the image resolutions of the S31 (10MP) and TG-850 iHS (16MP) and the S31 (1/2.9") and TG-850 iHS (1/2.3") boast totally different sensor sizes.

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The S31 was unveiled 7 months prior to the TG-850 iHS and they are both of a similar generation. Both cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving right into a step-by-step comparison, here is a concise summary of how the S31 scores against the TG-850 iHS with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a sample of the gallery pics for Nikon Coolpix S31 and Olympus Stylus Tough TG-850 iHS. The full galleries are available at Nikon S31 Gallery and Olympus TG-850 iHS Gallery.

For those who are planning to lug around your camera, you'll need to consider its weight and measurements. The Nikon S31 has got physical measurements of 105mm x 65mm x 42mm (4.1" x 2.6" x 1.7") having a weight of 185 grams (0.41 lbs) and the Olympus TG-850 iHS has proportions of 110mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.1") having a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs).

Analyze the Nikon S31 and Olympus TG-850 iHS in the new Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will vary based on the lens you are using at the time. Following is a front view scale comparison of the S31 compared to the TG-850 iHS.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the S31 and TG-850 iHS is 90 and 91 respectively.

Typically, it is difficult to visualise the contrast between sensor measurements merely by checking technical specs. The graphic here should provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the S31 and TG-850 iHS.

As you have seen, both cameras have different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The S31 using its tinier sensor will make achieving shallower depth of field tougher and the Olympus TG-850 iHS will give you greater detail having an extra 6MP. Greater resolution can also help you crop pics a bit more aggressively. The older S31 is going to be disadvantaged with regard to sensor tech.