Comparing Olympus FE-47 vs Olympus VR-320: Which Compact is Right for Your Photography Journey?

When diving into the world of affordable compact cameras, Olympus has long been a brand that balances usability with modest but respectable image quality. The Olympus FE-47 (released early 2010) and its slightly newer sibling, the Olympus VR-320 (launched mid-2011), cater to budget-conscious photographers craving pocketable gear with enough zoom and features for everyday shooting.

Over the years, I've tested hundreds of compacts, and both these cameras - though somewhat ancient by today’s standards - offer compelling lessons on tradeoffs and design priorities in the compact segment. Let’s break down their real-world usability, image capabilities, and see which shooter ultimately earns your hard-earned cash.

Pocket Size and Handling: Which Fits Your Hands and Lifestyle?

Physically, both cameras are small, but their designs target slightly different users. The FE-47 is a compact ‘small sensor compact’ with a classic rectangle shape, while the VR-320 ups the ante on zoom and grips.

Olympus FE-47 Dimensions: 98 x 61 x 27 mm | Weight: 204 g (uses 2x AA batteries)
Olympus VR-320 Dimensions: 101 x 58 x 29 mm | Weight: 158 g (uses rechargeable Li-ion battery)

The VR-320 is marginally taller and thicker but noticeably lighter. Using a proprietary Lithium-Ion battery helps keep weight down, a smart tradeoff versus the FE-47’s heavier, bulky AA cells (which can be handy if you’re a cheapskate who already has batteries lying around).

Control-wise, neither is the type to impress with clubs-for-thumbs dials or custom buttons - both rely on simple, fixed control layouts designed for point-and-shoot ease. Ergonomics slightly favor the VR-320, which feels better balanced for longer shooting sessions, likely thanks to its grip contour.

You’ll notice from the top view that the VR-320’s lens barrel extends out more at wide and tele positions, reflective of its superzoom capability, which we’ll discuss a little later.

If portability and quick snaps with modest zoom suffice, the FE-47’s smaller footprint might please street shooters who want to stay discreet.

Impressions from Behind the LCD: Viewing and Interface

Both cameras feature simple fixed rear LCDs - no fancy touchscreens here, unsurprisingly for the price and era.

The VR-320’s larger 3” screen makes framing and reviewing shots a little easier, especially when composing telephoto or macro shots. However, the 230,000 dots resolution is quite modest by even compact standards, so fine details in playback are fuzzy compared to modern cameras.

Menus are straightforward on both, though the VR-320 impresses thanks to its face detection autofocus support (missing on the FE-47), which certainly helps beginners nail focus on people.

Sensor, Image Quality and Lens: The Heart of the Matter

Now to the juicy bits - what kind of images do these Olympus compacts produce?

Both cameras sport a 14MP 1/2.3” CCD sensor, a common small sensor size used heavily in budget models. The slight size difference (28.07mm² vs 27.72mm²) is negligible in practice.

Image Quality and Noise

CCD sensors tend to deliver pleasing color rendition at base ISOs but fall short once you start pushing ISO sensitivity. Here, both cams max out at ISO 1600 with no expanded range.

From my own ISO testing sessions, both cameras perform adequately in daylight and well-lit indoor environments. However, image noise spikes quickly beyond ISO 400, leading to noticeable softness and color artifacts - classic compact sensor limits. Neither camera offers RAW support, so your ability to rescue images later in post is nonexistent.

Lens and Zoom Range

• FE-47 has a 5x optical zoom: 36-180mm equivalent, aperture f/3.5-5.6
• VR-320 boasts a whopping 12.5x optical zoom: 24-300mm equivalent, aperture f/3.0-5.9

The VR-320’s reach is exceptional given its class and price, extending from modest wide-angle to telephoto. The FE-47, while more limited telephoto-wise, starts at 36mm, which is less wide for landscapes or interiors.

Interestingly, FE-47’s minimum macro focusing distance is 3cm, versus just 1cm on the VR-320 - very handy if you’re into shooting small, detailed subjects up close. Macro lovers get a boon with the VR-320’s close focusing plus optical image stabilization.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance

Neither Olympus here offers advanced manual focus or exposure control - both cameras aim squarely at casual users wanting simple auto modes.

Both offer contrast detection autofocus with multi-area selection and basic AF tracking. However, the VR-320 advances with face detection (absent in the FE-47), improving portraits and candids.

Neither camera captures bursts or sports higher frame rates, instead relying on single autofocus and shot per press - reasonable for their categories but no match for modern action shooters.

Image Stabilization and Low-light Usability

The VR-320 includes sensor-shift image stabilization, an important feature that helps reduce blur in low-light or at full telephoto reach. The FE-47 lacks any stabilization, so handshake is a real challenge for that camera beyond bright environments.

This disparity makes VR-320 a better contender for dimly lit scenes or handheld telephoto shots, like casual wildlife glimpses or party photos.

Flash and Exposure

Both models have built-in flashes with similar ranges (FE-47 roughly 3.8 meters, VR-320 about 4.7 meters).

You get typical modes including Auto, On, Off, Red-eye reduction, and Fill-in. Neither camera supports external flashes, so you’re limited to onboard light, which can be harsh.

Exposure compensation and manual modes are absent on both, highlighting their beginner-friendly but limited exposure control - no changing aperture/shutter priority.

Video Functionality

Regarding video, the Olympus VR-320 wins with 720p HD capture at 30 fps, a nice feature for the era’s budget cam. The FE-47 lags behind at just 640x480 VGA resolution.

Neither has microphone or headphone jacks, so audio options are limited.

Connectivity and Storage

Neither offers wireless features such as Wi-Fi or Bluetooth - fairly standard for cameras of this generation and price bracket.

Both store images on SD/SDHC cards, with the FE-47 able to use internal memory (helpful in a pinch). USB 2.0 ports on both enable basic file transfer.

Durability and Build Quality

Neither camera is weather-sealed, waterproof, shockproof, or freezeproof. Use caution for rugged travel or outdoor adventures.

Their plastic builds feel acceptable but not particularly robust - typical for entry-level compacts.

Battery and Power

FE-47 runs on 2x AA batteries, which means you can quickly swap in rechargeables or disposables anywhere - very convenient for travel or remote use.

VR-320 uses a proprietary Lithium-ion battery (LI-42B) offering generally longer run times and lighter weight, but you need to carry a charger and possibly spares.

Sample Images: Real-World Comparison

Olympus FE 47 front Olympus FE 47 screen back Olympus VR 320 front Olympus VR 320 screen back

Image quality comparison between these cameras reveals typical CCD small sensor signatures - limited dynamic range, modest detail resolution, and softness in shadows and highlights when lighting isn’t ideal.

The VR-320’s longer zoom offers more framing versatility, but its sensor limitations remain. Skin tones are reasonable but can look a little flat, and bokeh is minimal due to small sensors and lens designs.

Performance Ratings: How They Score Overall

Neither camera breaks new ground, but the VR-320 scores consistently higher across most metrics - especially in zoom capability, autofocus sophistication, and image stabilization.

Specialized Use Case Scores: Match Your Photography Passion

• Portraits: VR-320’s face detection and image stabilization slightly edge out FE-47
• Landscape: Both struggle with dynamic range and sensor size, but VR-320’s wider angle is advantageous
• Wildlife: VR-320’s 300mm reach helps, but slow AF limits action shots
• Sports: Neither excels, lacking high fps or tracking
• Street: FE-47’s compactness aids discretion
• Macro: VR-320 performs better with 1cm focus and stabilization
• Night/Astro: Neither ideal due to noise and limited ISO
• Video: VR-320 is a clear winner with HD capability
• Travel: VR-320’s weight and zoom balance well, FE-47’s battery flexibility has appeal
• Professional: Neither is pro-grade; limited exposure and file format control

Pros and Cons Summary: Which Olympus Compact Wins?

Who Should Buy the Olympus FE-47?

If you’re an absolutely budget-conscious beginner or traveler who values simplicity, modest zoom, and the convenience of AA batteries, the FE-47 makes some sense. I’ve found it suits casual snapshot users who want to avoid the complexity or bulk of larger cameras and don’t need high-resolution video or expansive zoom.

Moreover, if you’re frequently out of power outlets and want the option to grab handheld batteries worldwide, the FE-47’s power choice is unbeatable.

Who Should Go for the Olympus VR-320?

The VR-320 is a better all-rounder for those who want:

• Versatile zoom range for landscapes, wildlife, or indoor scenes
• Anti-shake for better handheld sharpness
• Face detection for improved portraits
• HD video recording that’s more usable for casual clips
• Improved macro capability

The VR-320 suits travelers or family photographers wanting one-amazon-cam for all occasions on a tight budget. It’s lighter and more flexible - my go-to recommendation between the two.

Final Verdict: Value Judgment From Hands-On Experience

Both the Olympus FE-47 and VR-320 are compact cameras that clearly reflect their 2010-2011 vintage and entry-level target markets. In today’s smartphone-dominated market, neither shines spectacularly but offer solid lessons in minimalist photography gear.

But if you want to choose between these two relics - and, honestly, some bargains from used shops or clearance bins are still floating around - go with the Olympus VR-320. It offers wider creative latitude with its zoom, stabilization, and HD video, making it a modest but more flexible shooter for memory-making.

The FE-47 appeals primarily if you have specific needs for AA battery power or absolute simplicity in a very compact body. But be prepared for frustration in low light and lack of smooth zoom range.

If either camera is a stretch at their original prices, consider saving a little longer and looking for newer compacts or mirrorless options offering more modern sensors and AF tech - your workflow and creative satisfaction will thank you.

Parting Tips: Shooting with Small Sensor Compacts in 2024

• Use plenty of light! These sensors excel in bright conditions but falter when the sun drops.
• Keep ISO low to reduce noise; consider use of a tripod for night/macro shots.
• Exploit the zoom to get close without disturbing wildlife or candid subjects.
• Master your camera’s menu for af modes (multi-area, face detection) to get sharper shots.
• Don’t expect pro-level control or raw files - these cameras are convenient day-to-day companions, not studio tools.

If you want an honest budget compact that punches above its weight, the Olympus VR-320 will likely serve you better. But if your priority is practical simplicity with accessible battery options, and you expect limited shooting complexity, the FE-47 still holds some dusty charm.

Happy photo hunting - and remember, it’s not just about gear but your eye and moment behind the viewfinder!

This hands-on comparison springs from personally testing similar compact cameras over more than a decade, analyzing sensor performance, handling ergonomics, and real-world shooting results to empower your buying decisions.