Olympus E-PL3 vs TG-310: An Expert Comparison of Two Very Different Cameras

When it comes to Olympus cameras, the sheer range of options - from rugged compacts to mirrorless systems - can overwhelm even the savviest buyers. Today, I bring my 15 years of hands-on camera testing experience to bear on two Olympus models that, at first glance, couldn’t be more different: the Olympus PEN E-PL3, a 2011 entry-level mirrorless camera aimed at enthusiasts stepping up their game; and the Olympus TG-310, an ultra-compact waterproof point-and-shoot designed for rugged versatility.

Though both hail from the same year, they cater to fundamentally different photographic priorities. Yet, their comparison offers a revealing glimpse into Olympus’s approach to distinct use cases - be it creative control or adventure-proof simplicity.

In this detailed comparison, I’ll dissect everything from sensor technology and autofocus behavior, to ergonomics and video capabilities, and explore real-world results across portraiture, landscapes, wildlife, and beyond. Whether you’re hunting for your first interchangeable-lens camera or a waterproof companion for kayaking trips, here's what you need to know.

Getting a Feel for Them: Size, Handling, and Design

First up, let's address the physical form - a foundational factor influencing shooting comfort and practicality.

The Olympus E-PL3 is a rangefinder-style mirrorless camera with a classic, yet compact footprint measuring 110×64×37 mm and weighing 313 grams. This size strikes a balance between portability and ergonomics, offering a solid grip and enough room for control dials without feeling bulky. Its Micro Four Thirds lens mount opens creative possibilities with a wide lens ecosystem.

On the other hand, the TG-310 is a compact rugged camera, a mere 96×63×23 mm and 155 grams, emphasizing pocketability and durability. It’s dramatically smaller and lighter than the E-PL3, designed to thrive where more delicate cameras wouldn’t dare. Built to be waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and freezeproof (to various degrees), it’s ideal for outdoor adventurers unwilling to compromise on protection.

Handling-wise, the E-PL3’s body affords a more traditional photographic experience: customizable buttons, a tilting 3-inch LCD for framing, and tactile dials facilitate control for seasoned shooters. Meanwhile, the TG-310’s controls and simplified interface cater to casual users or those prioritizing convenience over manual settings.

If you value extensive control and lens interchangeability for varied shooting scenarios, the E-PL3’s handling will feel more intuitive and satisfying. But if you need an indestructible companion for unpredictable environments, the TG-310’s rugged compactness excels.

Form Meets Function: Control Layout and User Interface

Control schemes greatly influence workflow speed and decisiveness in the field. Olympus thoughtfully designed each camera’s user interface to suit their targeted users.

On the E-PL3, the top plate sports a traditional mode dial supporting shutter priority, aperture priority, and full manual exposure - a rarity in entry-level setups of the time. It also has a dedicated shutter release ring around the control dial, and exposure compensation buttons within easy reach. These afford fine tuning on the fly - a must-have when chasing specific creative effects.

Conversely, the TG-310’s minimalist top layout houses just a shutter button and a power switch. Its compactness and waterproof sealing necessitate simpler controls. It foregoes manual exposure modes entirely, offering a fully automatic shooting experience, augmented with scene modes and basic exposure compensation only via menus.

From personal experience, the E-PL3’s manual dials and direct access buttons lead to a faster, more confident shooting pace, especially in demanding lighting or dynamic scenarios. The TG-310’s simplified interface serves grab-and-go needs but rarely satisfies users seeking granular control.

The Heart of the Image: Sensor Technology and Image Quality

In digital photography, no component is more critical than the sensor. The Olympus E-PL3 and TG-310 deliver very different imaging hearts, impacting resolution, noise handling, and dynamic range.

The E-PL3 sports a Four Thirds-sized CMOS sensor measuring 17.3x13 mm, delivering a resolution of 12 megapixels. This sensor size balances image quality and lens portability. CMOS technology and Olympus’s TruePic VI processor enable good noise control, high dynamic range (approximately 10.3 EV per DxOMark), and robust color depth (around 20.9 bits).

In contrast, the TG-310 packs a much smaller 1/2.3-inch CCD sensor (6.17x4.55 mm) at 14 megapixels. While the pixel count is higher, the tiny sensor area restricts light gathering, impacting low-light performance and dynamic range. CCD sensors traditionally produce slightly different color rendition but at the cost of higher noise at elevated ISOs. Without raw support, post-processing flexibility is minimal.

From my lab testing and extensive fieldwork, here’s the takeaway: E-PL3 images are cleaner with notably more tonal gradation and detail retention, especially evident in shadows and highlights. The TG-310 captures useable daylight shots but struggles with noise beyond ISO 400 and cannot match the E-PL3’s image quality at base ISO.

Focus in Action: Autofocus Systems and Speed

Autofocus (AF) performance can make or break certain photography genres, from sports to macro.

The E-PL3 uses a contrast-detection AF system with 35 focus points, featuring face detection and tracking capabilities. It supports single, continuous, and selective AF modes, ensuring flexibility across subjects. On my tests, the E-PL3 consistently locks focus accurately, though it can hunt in very low light - a common limitation of contrast detection in its era.

The TG-310’s AF system is dedicated single-point contrast detection, with face detection but no continuous AF for moving subjects. There is limited AF customization, reflecting its casual point-and-shoot heritage.

For fast action or wildlife photography, the E-PL3’s ability to track subjects and its burst rate of 6 fps outperform the TG-310’s single fps shooting speed. In low light, the E-PL3’s higher native ISO and more sensitive AF sensor edges it further ahead.

Screens and Viewfinders: Composing Your Shot

Composing perfectly framed shots is paramount. The tools cameras provide greatly affect this.

The E-PL3 features a 3-inch tilting HyperCrystal LCD with 460k dots, providing vivid clarity and excellent visibility from varied angles. Though not touch-sensitive, its tilting mechanism is a boon for low or high-angle shooting, an ergonomic edge.

The TG-310 comes with a smaller 2.7-inch fixed TFT LCD with 230k dots, adequate but noticeably less sharp and flexible. Fixed screens become a limitation when shooting in tricky positions or bright sunlight.

Neither camera has a built-in electronic viewfinder, and both anticipate composing primarily via their LCDs. However, the E-PL3 optionally supports external electronic viewfinders, a critical advantage for professionals or serious enthusiasts desiring eye-level framing.

Photography in Action: Portraits and Skin Tone Rendering

Portrait photography demands accurate skin tones, effective background separation, and sharp focus - especially on eyes.

The E-PL3’s Four Thirds sensor, native ISO versatility, and quality Micro Four Thirds lenses allow beautiful rendition of skin tones and creamy, attractive bokeh thanks to the relatively large sensor and wide-aperture primes. Its face detection autofocus reliably locks on eyes, yielding sharp portraits with natural color transitions.

The TG-310’s fixed zoom lens with F3.9-5.9 aperture range limits shallow depth-of-field effects, resulting in flatter backgrounds lacking subject isolation. Its sensor and JPEG processing render livelier colors suitable for snapshots, but it cannot match the subtler skin tone gradations or focus precision of the E-PL3.

I took portrait comparisons under natural window light and found the E-PL3’s output superior both technically and artistically.

Where the Wild Things Are: Wildlife and Sports

For wildlife and sports shooters craving fast autofocus and quick capture bursts, the cameras diverge starkly.

The E-PL3 offers a respectable 6 frames per second continuous shooting, paired with intelligent AF tracking. This combination allows capturing fleeting moments like bird flight or athlete movement with reasonable success, albeit with some AF hesitation in very fast or low-light scenes.

On the TG-310, the mere 1 fps burst rate and basic AF hamper action photography beyond casual snapshots. Its limited telephoto reach (approximate 28-102 mm equivalent) restricts framing distant subjects effectively compared to interchangeable lenses available for the E-PL3.

Therefore, for sports and wildlife, the E-PL3 is the clear choice, provided you invest in telephoto lenses.

Seeing the Big Picture: Landscape Photography and Resolution

Landscape photography benefits from high resolution, wide dynamic range, and weather resistance.

Though the E-PL3 lacks professional-grade weather sealing, its sensor size and lens selection offer superior detail capture and highlight-to-shadow tonality, visible in high-contrast scenes like sunlit forests or mountain vistas. Its 12MP resolution is sufficiently detailed when used with quality primes or versatile zooms.

The TG-310, with its waterproof and shockproof housing, is better suited for rugged outdoor use - especially around water or in harsh conditions. However, its small sensor and limited ISO range mean dynamic range compression, highlight clipping, and noise in shadows.

If you prioritize image quality in landscapes and can shield your gear from elements, the E-PL3 delivers better results. But for casual landscapes where durability counts more, TG-310 suffices.

Macro and Close-Up Photography

Macro photography demands precise focus control, close minimum focusing distances, and often stabilization.

The E-PL3, paired with quality macro lenses, supports sharp, sharp-focused close-ups with powerful magnification and effective handheld stabilization through sensor-shift IS. Its focus peaking and selective AF consolidate focusing precision, an invaluable advantage in detail-rich macro shooting.

The TG-310 offers a minimum macro focus distance of 3cm, a useful trait for casual close-ups. Its sensor-shift stabilization helps combat handheld shake. However, the fixed lens’s limited aperture and simplified focus system cap its macro potential.

For serious close-up work, the E-PL3 clearly outperforms but the TG-310 can satisfy vacation snapshots of flowers or insects.

Night and Astrophotography: ISO and Noise Performance

Shooting in near-total darkness tests sensor noise control and exposure flexibility.

The E-PL3’s native ISO range (200-12800) and raw capture capability provide flexibility to tame noise via software post-processing. Its sensor based image stabilization and manual shutter speeds down to 60 seconds facilitate long exposures and astrophotography.

TG-310 maxes out at ISO 1600 with no raw option and a shutter speed ceiling of 2 seconds, restricting night photography capabilities. Noise is visibly detrimental at ISO 800 and above, making dark scenes grainy.

For low light and astrophotography, the E-PL3 is your tool of choice.

Lights, Camera, Action: Video Capabilities

Video is a vital consideration for hybrid shooters.

The E-PL3 supports Full HD 1080p at 60fps with AVCHD format and Motion JPEG alternatives. Although its mic input is absent, outputting HDMI to record externally is possible. However, it lacks advanced autofocus during video and image stabilization is only sensor-based (without lens stabilization compensation during recording).

TG-310 maxes out at 1280x720p at 30fps in simpler Motion JPEG format, intended for casual clips. It includes a built-in mic but no external audio inputs.

Thus, the E-PL3 offers a considerably richer video package, suitable for semi-pro content creation.

Powering Through: Battery Life and Storage

Battery life differences affect prolonged outings and travel usability.

The E-PL3 powers approximately 300 shots per charge using the BLS-5 battery - reasonable by mirrorless standards, though often requiring carry-alongs on full days.

The TG-310 managed only 150 shots per charge due to smaller battery and compact design trade-offs. However, its single SD card slot suffices for both.

If endurance matters, the mirrorless E-PL3 balances better performance and more battery-hungry operation.

Connectivity and Workflow Integration

The E-PL3 notably lacks Bluetooth or Wi-Fi but provides HDMI and USB 2.0 for tethered transfers. Its raw file support makes it a productivity darling for workflow enthusiasts using Lightroom or Capture One.

The TG-310 includes “Eye-Fi Connected” built-in Wi-Fi support for wireless transfer via compatible SD cards - convenient for easy sharing but limited in distance and speed.

Neither has GPS, but the E-PL3’s advanced processing and raw workflow compatibility make it superior for professional use.

Durability and Environmental Considerations

Olympus markets the TG-310 as waterproof up to 3m, shockproof, dustproof, and freezeproof, making it ideal for wild conditions - snorkeling, hiking, skiing.

The E-PL3 lacks explicit environmental sealing, requiring careful handling and protective accessories when exposed to harsh elements.

Putting It All Together: Performance Ratings and Genre Suitability

Let’s summarize overall performance and strengths per photography category.

Portraits

E-PL3 excels with excellent color science, skin tones, and AF precision. TG-310 only for casual portraits.

Landscapes

E-PL3’s larger sensor wins on dynamic range and detail. TG-310 serves rugged snaps.

Wildlife & Sports

E-PL3’s AF and burst rate triumph. TG-310 not recommended.

Street

TG-310’s compact size is discreet but manual exposure limits creative street work. E-PL3 better with lenses but bigger.

Macro

E-PL3 with macro lenses shines. TG-310 can handle casual close-ups.

Night/Astro

E-PL3’s long exposure and ISO range make it the clear winner.

Video

E-PL3 has superior specs and options; TG-310 covers simple clips.

Travel

TG-310’s rugged size and waterproofing are convenient; E-PL3 offers versatility but with more bulk.

Professional Use

E-PL3’s workflow integration and control make it suitable; TG-310 is unsuitable.

Final Thoughts: Who Should Choose Which?

This comparison highlights the pronounced strengths and compromises inherent in these two distinct Olympus cameras.

The Olympus PEN E-PL3 is a compelling choice for:

• Photography enthusiasts ready to step beyond compacts without breaking the bank
• Users seeking creative control, interchangeable lenses, and better image quality
• Hybrid shooters wanting respectable video capability
• Those able to carry a moderately sized camera with interchangeable lenses

Meanwhile, the Olympus TG-310 suits:

• Outdoor enthusiasts requiring a tough, waterproof, and easy-to-use shooter
• Travelers and casual shooters prioritizing convenience and durability over image control
• Those uncomfortable or uninterested in manual exposure or lens changes
• Budget-conscious buyers wanting a rugged point-and-shoot for snapshots

For a photography enthusiast or professional investigating a budget-friendly mirrorless camera with good image quality and performance, the E-PL3 remains a worthwhile candidate, provided the lack of modern connectivity and viewfinder won’t be deal breakers.

If you want a no-fuss camera that can survive drops, water, and cold, while delivering quick snapshots, the TG-310 is your buddy - although it’s more of a digital vacation camera than a creative tool.

Sample Imagery Showcase: Seeing Is Believing

Nothing beats hands-on sample images to seal the deal.

Olympus E PL3 screen back Olympus TG 310 front Olympus TG 310 screen back

Here, you can visually compare sharpness, color rendering, and noise between the two cameras. Notice the E-PL3’s finely detailed edges and smooth tonal gradients next to the TG-310’s brighter but less nuanced colors and noticeable noise in shadow regions.

In conclusion, while the Olympus E-PL3 and TG-310 may share a brand and release year, they inhabit very different photographic universes. Your choice depends less on specs, and more on how and where you intend to shoot.

As someone who’s extendedly tested a broad spectrum of cameras under diverse conditions, I always advocate tailoring camera choices to your unique shooting style and priorities. Hopefully, this detailed comparative review helps you do just that.

Happy shooting!