Olympus E-PL3 vs Olympus TG-1 iHS

Let's look much closer at the Olympus E-PL3 vs Olympus TG-1 iHS, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Waterproof and both of them are produced by Olympus. The image resolution of the E-PL3 (12MP) and the TG-1 iHS (12MP) is relatively comparable but the E-PL3 (Four Thirds) and TG-1 iHS (1/2.3") feature totally different sensor sizing.

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The E-PL3 was manufactured 7 months prior to the TG-1 iHS which means that they are of a similar age. Each of the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus TG-1 iHS being a Compact camera.

Before we go in to a more detailed comparison, below is a brief highlight of how the E-PL3 scores against the TG-1 iHS with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

Below is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL3 & Olympus Tough TG-1 iHS. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus E-PL3 Gallery & Olympus TG-1 iHS Gallery.

If you are looking to travel with your camera regularly, you will want to think about its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL3 enjoys physical measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 37mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 313 grams (0.69 lbs) and the Olympus TG-1 iHS has specifications of 112mm x 67mm x 30mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.2") accompanied by a weight of 230 grams (0.51 lbs).

Check out the Olympus E-PL3 vs Olympus TG-1 iHS in our completely new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Keep in mind, the weight of an ILC will vary based on the lens you are working with at that moment. Following is the front view sizing comparison of the E-PL3 versus the TG-1 iHS.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL3 and TG-1 iHS is 88 and 91 respectively.

More often than not, it can be hard to see the contrast in sensor dimensions simply by seeing a spec sheet. The picture below should offer you a better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PL3 and TG-1 iHS.

As you can see, the 2 cameras enjoy the same exact megapixel count albeit not the same sensor dimensions. The E-PL3 provides the bigger sensor which is going to make getting bokeh less difficult. The more aged E-PL3 will be behind when it comes to sensor innovation.