Olympus E-PL8 vs Panasonic TS6

Here is a extensive analysis of the Olympus E-PL8 and Panasonic TS6, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Waterproof by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the E-PL8 (16MP) and the TS6 (16MP) is relatively well matched but the E-PL8 (Four Thirds) and TS6 (1/2.3") come with different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The E-PL8 was unveiled 21 months later than the TS6 which makes the cameras a generation apart from each other. Both cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PL8 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Panasonic TS6 being a Compact camera.

Before diving straight into a detailed comparison, below is a simple summation of how the E-PL8 matches up against the TS6 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL8 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-TS6. The full galleries are available at Olympus E-PL8 Gallery & Panasonic TS6 Gallery.

In case you're intending to carry your camera, you'll have to take into account its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PL8 has outer dimensions of 115mm x 67mm x 38mm (4.5" x 2.6" x 1.5") and a weight of 357 grams (0.79 lbs) whilst the Panasonic TS6 has sizing of 110mm x 67mm x 29mm (4.3" x 2.6" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 214 grams (0.47 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus E-PL8 and Panasonic TS6 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you are utilising during that time. The following is the front view size comparison of the E-PL8 against the TS6.

Taking into consideration size and weight, the portability grade of the E-PL8 and TS6 is 86 and 91 respectively.

In many cases, it's difficult to imagine the gap between sensor sizing merely by looking at technical specs. The graphic below will help give you a much better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL8 and TS6.

As you have seen, both cameras enjoy the same exact MP albeit different sensor sizing. The E-PL8 includes the bigger sensor which is going to make obtaining shallower DOF simpler. The newer E-PL8 should have a benefit with regard to sensor tech.