Olympus E-PL9 vs Olympus TG-860

The following is a thorough comparison of the Olympus E-PL9 versus Olympus TG-860, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Waterproof and they are both produced by Olympus. The image resolution of the E-PL9 (16MP) and the TG-860 (16MP) is relatively similar but the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and TG-860 (1/2.3") offer totally different sensor measurements.

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The E-PL9 was brought out 3 years after the TG-860 which is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras have different body design with the Olympus E-PL9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus TG-860 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a short synopsis of how the E-PL9 matches up against the TG-860 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall mark.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus PEN E-PL9 & Olympus Stylus Tough TG-860. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL9 Gallery & Olympus TG-860 Gallery.

If you're looking to travel with your camera frequently, you have to factor its weight and size. The Olympus E-PL9 has external measurements of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") and a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs) whilst the Olympus TG-860 has specifications of 110mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 224 grams (0.49 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PL9 versus Olympus TG-860 in our newest Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into consideration, the weight of an ILC will change based on the lens you use at that moment. Below is a front view size comparison of the E-PL9 against the TG-860.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL9 and TG-860 is 85 and 91 respectively.

Typically, it is very difficult to visualise the difference between sensor dimensions only by reviewing a spec sheet. The pic below may offer you a more clear sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PL9 and TG-860.

As you can see, both cameras have the same megapixel count albeit not the same sensor dimensions. The E-PL9 has the bigger sensor which will make getting shallower depth of field simpler. The fresher E-PL9 is going to have a benefit when it comes to sensor innovation.