Olympus E-PL1 vs Olympus TG-820 iHS

Here, we will be analyzing the Olympus E-PL1 vs Olympus TG-820 iHS, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Waterproof and both are sold by Olympus. The image resolution of the E-PL1 (12MP) and the TG-820 iHS (12MP) is pretty comparable but the E-PL1 (Four Thirds) and TG-820 iHS (1/2.3") offer different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL1 was announced 21 months earlier than the TG-820 iHS which makes them a generation apart from each other. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus TG-820 iHS being a Compact camera.

Before going right into a detailed comparison, here is a brief introduction of how the E-PL1 matches up against the TG-820 iHS with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PL1 & Olympus TG-820 iHS. The whole galleries are available at Olympus E-PL1 Gallery & Olympus TG-820 iHS Gallery.

For anybody who is looking to carry your camera regularly, you should factor in its weight and dimensions. The Olympus E-PL1 has physical measurements of 115mm x 72mm x 42mm (4.5" x 2.8" x 1.7") and a weight of 334 grams (0.74 lbs) while the Olympus TG-820 iHS has dimensions of 101mm x 65mm x 26mm (4.0" x 2.6" x 1.0") accompanied by a weight of 206 grams (0.45 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-PL1 vs Olympus TG-820 iHS in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you are using at that time. Underneath is a front view scale comparison of the E-PL1 against the TG-820 iHS.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL1 and TG-820 iHS is 86 and 92 respectively.

Generally, it's tough to imagine the gap in sensor sizing purely by seeing a spec sheet. The graphic underneath may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL1 and TG-820 iHS.

Clearly, the two cameras feature the identical MP albeit different sensor sizing. The E-PL1 comes with the bigger sensor which should make getting shallower depth of field simpler. The older E-PL1 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor innovation.