Olympus E-PL9 vs Olympus TG-4

Here, we are evaluating the Olympus E-PL9 versus Olympus TG-4, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the other is a Waterproof and both of them are sold by Olympus. The resolution of the E-PL9 (16MP) and the TG-4 (16MP) is fairly well matched but the E-PL9 (Four Thirds) and TG-4 (1/2.3") posses totally different sensor sizes.

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The E-PL9 was brought out 2 years after the TG-4 which is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Both the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PL9 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus TG-4 being a Compact camera.

Before going straight to a thorough comparison, here is a quick introduction of how the E-PL9 matches up vs the TG-4 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus PEN E-PL9 & Olympus Tough TG-4. The entire galleries are viewable at Olympus E-PL9 Gallery & Olympus TG-4 Gallery.

When you are looking to carry around your camera often, you have to think about its weight and measurements. The Olympus E-PL9 has got physical dimensions of 117mm x 68mm x 39mm (4.6" x 2.7" x 1.5") accompanied by a weight of 380 grams (0.84 lbs) whilst the Olympus TG-4 has proportions of 112mm x 66mm x 31mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.2") having a weight of 247 grams (0.54 lbs).

Check the Olympus E-PL9 versus Olympus TG-4 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have chosen during that time. Underneath is a front view dimensions comparison of the E-PL9 against the TG-4.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the E-PL9 and TG-4 is 85 and 90 respectively.

More often than not, its hard to envision the gap between sensor sizes just by looking at a spec sheet. The picture here might offer you a clearer sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PL9 and TG-4.

Clearly, both of these cameras come with the identical megapixel count but not the same sensor sizes. The E-PL9 provides the larger sensor which should make obtaining shallower DOF easier. The more recent E-PL9 will have an advantage in sensor innovation.