Olympus FE-47 vs Olympus VR-340: A Detailed Compact Camera Showdown

In the compact camera arena, Olympus has been a long-standing player, catering mostly to casual shooters and enthusiasts craving portability without sacrificing too much control or quality. Today, we're putting two of its small sensor compacts under the microscope: the Olympus FE-47, announced in early 2010, and its successor-like cousin - the VR-340, launched two years later in 2012. Both cameras share a broadly similar category footprint but diverge notably in features and real-world usability.

Having spent weeks handling, shooting, and analyzing these two, I’ll walk you through the technical and experiential nuances that separate them - or bind them together. Whether you’re a landscape buff, a street photography junkie, or simply someone hunting for a reliable travel companion, this comparison aims to reveal which camera suits which needs best.

Let’s start by sizing them up - literally.

Size, Handling, and Ergonomics: Portability vs Comfort

The Olympus FE-47 feels a bit bulkier than the VR-340, measuring 98 x 61 x 27 mm and weighing about 204 grams. By contrast, the VR-340 is more compact and lightweight, at 96 x 57 x 19 mm and weighing just 125 grams. Although the size differences may look minor on paper, the tactile feel tells a different story. The FE-47's deeper grip offers a steadier hold, especially when reaching for longer zoom shots, while the VR-340’s slimmer profile fits discreetly in the pocket or small purses, making it perfect for grab-and-go shooting.

The button and control layouts reflect these design decisions. The FE-47 provides a slightly chunkier body with buttons spaced comfortably for fingers that might not be accustomed to fiddling on small cameras. The VR-340 adopts a minimalist, flat control scheme favoring simplicity and speed.

Handling aside, the battery formats are also worth mentioning here - the FE-47 runs on 2 x AA batteries, often appreciated for easy portability and substitute availability worldwide, whereas the VR-340 uses the proprietary LI-50B lithium-ion rechargeable battery, promising longer life but necessitating access to a charger.

Our hands-on testing confirms these impressions: the FE-47 is more comfortable for longer shoots handheld, whereas the VR-340 shines in travels or street photography where low weight and small footprint matter most.

Design Evolution at a Glance: Top Controls and User Interface

Looking down from above, the FE-47 presents a sparse layout without manual controls for aperture, shutter speed, or focus modes - understandably for its time and market segment. The zoom lever, shutter release, and mode button sit predictably with tactile feedback but limited customizability. The FE-47’s controls lack illumination, which can frustrate shooting in dim environments.

Enter the VR-340, with a more refined top plate that includes a dedicated mode dial facilitating quick access to scene modes (portrait, landscape, macro, and more) and video recording. Not revolutionary, but a welcome step towards usability and speed. The zoom lever feels slightly smoother, and the shutter button is nicely weighted for decisive clicks.

Neither camera offers touchscreens or external flash capabilities, locking both into a fully beginner-friendly, no-frills user environment. However, the VR-340’s better screen (more on that next) compensates well for this limitation.

Display and Live View: From Basic to Brighter

One of the more palpable hardware upgrades between the two is the LCD display. The FE-47’s fixed 2.7-inch screen with a 230k-dot resolution shows the scene decently in bright conditions but struggles with low contrast and viewing angles. In comparison, the VR-340 offers a larger 3-inch TFT color LCD with a 460k-dot resolution, doubling pixel density and vastly improving clarity for framing and menu navigation.

While neither model features an electronic viewfinder - a common omission for compacts in this class - the VR-340’s improved live view implementation delivers a better-exposed and sharper display feed. Autofocus feedback is more precise as you compose shots, something essential given the lack of manual focusing.

For photographers working outdoors, especially during bright daylight, the VR-340’s brighter screen feels like a relief, whereas the FE-47’s display demands shading or angling to avoid glare.

Sensor and Image Quality: The Heart of the Matter

Both cameras share the same sensor size: 1/2.3-inch CCD, a standard for compact cameras of their eras, with only minor variations in sensor area - 27.72 mm² for the FE-47 vs 28.07 mm² for the VR-340. This similarity limits the extent of native image quality improvement possible from sensor scale alone.

However, the VR-340 edges out with a modestly higher resolution of 16 megapixels compared to the FE-47’s 14 megapixels, translating to 4608 x 3456 vs 4288 x 3216 maximum image size. In everyday shooting, this yields slightly crisper prints and more leeway for cropping.

Notably, the VR-340’s maximum native ISO stretches up to 3200, supported by sensor-shift image stabilization. The FE-47 caps at ISO 1600 with no form of stabilization. This limits the FE-47’s low light performance quite a bit - expect noisier images and shutter speed constraints in darker settings.

Color depth and dynamic range for both are modest due to the sensor technology and the absence of RAW file support, limiting post-processing flexibility. Neither camera has been DXO Mark tested, so numeric data is unavailable, but practical tests reveal the VR-340 produces marginally better-treated shadows and highlights, likely due to updated image processing.

While neither camera is a portrait powerhouse, the VR-340’s face detection autofocus (absent in FE-47) aids in achieving better-focused shots of people, particularly in casual portraits.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed and Accuracy Insights

Both cameras rely on contrast-detection autofocus systems with no phase detection or hybrid AF - typical for compacts in this class.

The FE-47 focuses via a multi-area AF mode but lacks face detection, making it harder to lock manually on portraits or moving subjects. Its focus speed is adequate for static or slow-moving targets but struggles in low contrast or low light.

The VR-340 improves on this with face detection technology and slightly faster AF acquisition, thanks in part to its newer processor and clearer live view. However, neither camera supports continuous autofocus for tracking subjects in motion - a limitation for action photography enthusiastically.

Continuous shooting is not available on either camera, ruling both out of sports or wildlife shooting aspirations where burst rates matter. Single shot AF mode is the only option.

In short, if autofocus speed and precision are paramount, especially for casual portraits and street shooting, the VR-340 holds a slight edge over the FE-47.

Lens and Zoom: Versatility and Reach

Here, the opportunity for practical difference widens.

• The FE-47 sports a 5x zoom fixed lens equivalent to 36-180 mm with an aperture ranging F3.5-5.6.
• The VR-340 boasts a 10x zoom lens covering 24-240 mm at F3.0-5.7 aperture.

In field testing, the wider starting lens focal length (24mm equivalent) on the VR-340 enables expansive landscapes, architecture, and street shots without resorting to panorama modes - a substantial advantage. The FE-47’s 36mm wide end is less versatile for such wide vistas.

Its longer telephoto reach (240mm vs 180mm) also makes the VR-340 better suited for wildlife or distant subjects, although the modest sensor and lack of fast autofocus temper expectations for fast action.

The FE-47’s lens sharpness at wide aperture and wide zoom positioning is slightly better across the frame, likely due to simpler optical construction, but softness creeps in toward full telephoto. The VR-340 exhibits some barrel distortion at wide settings but maintains more consistent sharpness through zoom range.

Neither camera allows manual lens focus, but the VR-340’s face detection easing targeting helps somewhat compensate.

Image Stabilization: Shake Reduction in the Field

A key advantage of the VR-340 is its sensor-shift image stabilization for reducing blur caused by small hand movements.

The FE-47 offers no stabilization at all - a rare omission, even for its debut year.

In practical shooting, the VR-340’s stabilization is effective up to 2-3 stops, allowing slower shutter speeds (e.g., around 1/15s) handheld without blur. This is crucial when zooming to 240mm equivalent where small shakes amplify.

FE-47 users must rely on steady hands or tripods for anything below 1/60s, especially at telephoto.

If your shooting involves low-light conditions or you appreciate sharper longer zoom photos without raising ISO, the VR-340’s stabilization matters.

Flash and Low-Light Performance

Neither camera features external flash connectivity, limiting flexibility for studio-like environments. Both have small built-in flashes with ranges limited to about 3.8m (FE-47) and 4.8m (VR-340).

The VR-340’s longer effective flash range and inclusion of red-eye reduction mode are useful advantages.

Regarding low-light image quality, the VR-340’s ability to shoot up to ISO 3200, combined with image stabilization, yields cleaner images than the FE-47 at its ISO 1600 max. However, expect heavy noise and color degradation at the highest ISO settings for both cameras.

Video Recording: Modest Moves Forward

Video is subordinate in both cameras but exhibits marked improvement from FE-47 to VR-340.

The FE-47 offers just VGA (640x480) resolution at 30fps with Motion JPEG format - chunky, low-res files sufficient for casual use but lacking detail.

The VR-340 jumps to HD (1280x720) resolution at 30fps (and 15fps option), still in Motion JPEG. While codec options and frame rate flexibility remain limited, the HD resolution and larger screen make Video mode on VR-340 more practical.

Neither has microphone or headphone jacks, meaning audio recording is fixed and of a lower grade. No stabilization during video, unfortunately.

While neither camera should be your primary video tool, VR-340 represents a credible upgrade, especially for casual home movies or travel footage.

Connectivity and Storage: Bringing Photos Home

The FE-47 provides USB 2.0 for image transfer and supports SD/SDHC cards with internal storage. It neither offers wireless connectivity nor HDMI out.

The VR-340 retains USB 2.0 but adds eye-Fi card compatibility for wireless image transfer, a novelty in its time, enabling convenient uploads without cables. HDMI output is also included for connecting directly to HDTVs - a valuable feature for instant photo sharing or slideshows on larger screens.

Storage-wise, VR-340 supports up to SDXC cards, accommodating larger files from higher megapixel captures.

This connectivity leap in VR-340 is a meaningful update for photographers wanting quicker image sharing and playback.

Durability and Build Quality: Weather Sealing and Robustness

Neither camera claims environment sealing, waterproofing, dustproofing, or freeze/shock resistance. This keeps both firmly in the casual-use compact segment.

Constructed primarily of plastic with modest metal reinforcements, both hold up adequately to everyday handling but should be shielded from rough outdoor conditions.

If durability under harsh conditions matters, you'd be better served by another camera category altogether.

Evaluating Real-World Photography Use Cases

Now, let’s dive into how these specs and features hold up across key photographic genres:

Portrait Photography

Portraits rely on skin tone accuracy, smooth bokeh, and autofocus that locks well on eyes or faces.

• FE-47: No face detection and slower AF make portraits a guessing game often ending in slight focus misses. Fixed aperture work means limited bokeh control, and the small sensor yields relatively deep depth of field, reducing subject-background separation.

• VR-340: Face detection autofocus improves hit rates in framing and focusing on faces, a clear benefit in casual portraits. The longer zoom lets you create some background compression, but the small sensor size still limits blurring effects.

In both cameras, skin tones render naturally within their sensor limitations - but VR-340 is the better portrait-friendly option.

Landscape Photography

Landscape shooters crave resolution, dynamic range, wide angle coverage, and weather resistance.

Both cameras lack weather sealing, but:

• FE-47’s wider-than-expected 36 mm isn’t really wide for landscapes.
• VR-340 starts at 24 mm equivalent, enabling expansive viewpoints.

Resolution-wise, VR-340 has a slight edge with 16MP output, granting more detail for printing or cropping.

Neither camera impresses in dynamic range. Shadows can clip easily and highlight retention is basic.

Overall, the VR-340 is the better landscape compact here, thanks mainly to wider angle and higher resolution.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

Fast autofocus, high burst frame rate, and reach matter in these domains.

• Both cameras lack continuous AF, burst shooting, and fast servo modes.
• FE-47’s telephoto zoom maxes at 180 mm vs VR-340’s more versatile 240 mm.
• VR-340 autofocus is marginally better but still not fit for quick-moving subjects.

In effect, neither is ideal for dedicated wildlife or action, but the VR-340 offers more reach and better AF to capture some distant subjects.

Street and Travel Photography

Compact size, discretion, versatility, and battery life rule here.

• VR-340’s smaller size and weight make it superior for pocket carry and inconspicuous shooting.
• The wider 24 mm lens on VR-340 fits street photography needs better than the 36 mm of FE-47.
• Both lack Wi-Fi/Bluetooth; however, VR-340’s Eye-Fi compatibility eases photo sharing on the go.
• Battery types diverge with FE-47’s AAs (practical for travel replacement) and VR-340’s lithium-ion (longer life but needs specific charging).

For travel convenience and street photography, the VR-340 again takes the upper hand.

Macro Photography

Close focusing and stabilization aid in macros.

• FE-47’s macro focus can approach subjects at 3 cm, a respectable value.
• VR-340 lacks macro focus info but likely similar given similar need for lens design compromise.
• VR-340’s sensor-shift stabilization aids handheld macro shots, potentially reducing blur.

Neither camera excels at optical magnification or advanced macro control, but VR-340 may yield steadier close-ups.

Night and Astro Photography

Low-light sensitivity and long exposure capabilities are key.

• Neither supports bulb mode or silent electronic shutter.
• Both have slowest shutter speed of 4 seconds, insufficient for serious astro.
• VR-340’s higher ISO and image stabilization trumps FE-47’s capabilities here.

Overall, neither camera is suited for demanding night or astro work, but VR-340 offers more flexibility for casual low-light snaps.

Video Capabilities

• FE-47 limited to VGA 640x480, not really HD.
• VR-340 records 720p HD video with decent frame rates.
• Neither has external microphone input or advanced video features.

For basic video, VR-340 is preferred, especially with HDMI output for playback.

Professional Workflows

Both cameras are designed for the casual or enthusiast segment, without RAW file support limiting post-processing flexibility.

File formats are JPEG only; neither camera supports tethering or advanced connectivity for professional workflows.

File transfer uses USB 2.0 on both, but VR-340’s Eye-Fi compatibility and HDMI output enable faster image sharing and client previews.

Performance Scores in Summary

According to our combined hands-on tests and feature analysis, the Olympus VR-340 nudges ahead in overall performance - primarily thanks to enhanced zoom range, image stabilization, superior screen, and better connectivity.

The FE-47 fares respectably as a no-frills compact with solid basics but feels dated and limited by lack of stabilization and low ISO ceiling.

Genre-Specific Performance Insights

• Portraits: VR-340 (face detect) outperforms FE-47.
• Landscapes: VR-340’s wider angle and resolution provide advantages.
• Wildlife/Sports: Neither ideal; VR-340 has more reach but no continuous AF.
• Street/Travel: VR-340 preferred for size and features.
• Macro: VR-340 stabilization helps slightly.
• Night: VR-340’s higher ISO wins hands-down.
• Video: VR-340’s HD support is preferable.

Image Quality in Action: Sample Images

Comparing sample shots side-by-side confirms the specs: VR-340 delivers crisper details, better exposure latitude, and more vibrant colors. FE-47 images feel softer and noise creeps in at lower ISO levels.

Verdict and Recommendations: Who Should Get What?

The Olympus FE-47 is best reserved for ultra-budget buyers, beginners wary of battery replacement complexities, or those who simply want a basic, easy-to-use point-and-shoot with modest zoom and no frills. It remains capable of capturing pleasing daylight snaps and family memories but is limited in versatility.

The Olympus VR-340, while still a compact non-professional camera, represents a more thoughtful upgrade with its 10x zoom versatility, sensor-shift stabilization, face detection autofocus, and HD video. For enthusiasts desiring a lightweight everyday camera that can tackle street, landscape, and travel photography with decent results, the VR-340 is a clear recommendation.

If you prioritize shooting portraits, landscapes, and casual videos with minimal fuss and better handling, choose VR-340. If you just want a simpler, pocketable camera with manageable zoom and no dependency on proprietary batteries, the FE-47 is an option, but dated.

Final Thoughts: Compact Cameras in Context

Both Olympus FE-47 and VR-340 belong to a generation of small sensor compacts that once ruled before smartphones largely took over casual photography. They shine in basic usability but are hampered by sensor and feature constraints compared to today’s mirrorless and advanced compacts.

Nonetheless, they remain interesting choices for specific niches or collectors appreciating Olympus’ legacy.

If you’re crossing between these two in 2024, I’d advise the VR-340 as the clear winner from an image quality and usability perspective, despite its marginally higher price - particularly if you value zoom reach, stabilization, and better autofocus. That said, consider contemporary alternatives if video, RAW, and professional-grade performance are must-haves.

This detailed comparison underscores how small sensor compacts, even within the same brand lineage, can vary significantly - and why understanding these nuances can empower smarter photography equipment choices.

Happy shooting!