The Olympus E-PM1 vs. Stylus Tough TG-850 iHS: A Deep-Dive for Enthusiasts and Pros Alike

Choosing your next camera can feel like stepping into an overwhelming maze. With so many models and specs floating around, distilling what truly matters for your photography style is crucial. Today, I’m unpacking two distinctly different Olympus cameras - the Olympus PEN E-PM1 and the Olympus Stylus Tough TG-850 iHS. One leans classic mirrorless, the other a hardened waterproof compact. But what does that mean in practice? Let’s sift through their real-world merits, quirks, and trade-offs to help you decide if either deserves a spot in your camera bag.

Getting a Grip: Size, Feel, and Usability

A camera lives in your hands long before it lives in your photos - ergonomics matter, often more than spec sheets reveal.

The Olympus E-PM1 sports a rangefinder-style mirrorless body, embodying the classic PEN aesthetic: compact but with enough heft and grip to feel assured. Weighing in at 265 grams and measuring roughly 110x64x34mm, it’s nimble without sliding away mid-shoot.

On the flip side, the TG-850 iHS is built for rough and tumble - boxing in at 218 grams and slightly slimmer at 110x64x28mm. The design is compact but with a robust, weathersealed shell rated waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, crushproof, and freezeproof (remarkably Hardy!). Whether you’re scaling a mountain or poolside, this camera promises resilience you simply can’t get from the E-PM1.

In handling both, the E-PM1 feels more like a proper photographic tool - buttons and dials are well-placed, suited for deliberate control. Meanwhile, the TG-850’s controls lean toward simplicity, favoring rugged reliability over sophistication.

Ergonomics verdict: For hands-on shooting control and tactile precision, E-PM1 wins. For adventurers needing a shock-resistant companion, TG-850 reigns supreme.

Visual Commanders: A Look at Controls and Interface

How the cameras communicate with you can make or break the shooting experience.

Take a peek at their top panels:

The E-PM1 boasts traditional exposure dials and buttons - the sort that instantly telegraph their functions. Aperture and shutter priority modes are onboard, alongside manual exposure. This gives enthusiasts and pros the flexibility to sculpt images on the fly.

The TG-850, designed with rugged compactness in mind, errs on the side of fewer manual controls. No shutter or aperture priority modes here - and forget about manual exposure. The control layout is sparser, focused on ease and durability rather than configurability.

Looking at the rear LCDs, both provide 3-inch screens with 460k dots resolution. However, the E-PM1’s “HyperCrystal” LCD with anti-reflective coating offers more vibrant viewing in varied lighting. The TG-850 opts for a basic tilt-enabled TFT LCD, valuable for shots at odd angles but lacking finesse in bright sunlight.

Bottom line for interface: E-PM1 caters to users who want to craft their images deliberately and intuitively. TG-850 prioritizes ruggedness and simplicity over granular control.

Sensor Showdown: Size, Resolution, and Image Quality

Here’s where technical matters get juicy. Sensor size and pixel count are foundation stones that influence everything from noise performance to depth of field control.

The E-PM1 features a Four Thirds sensor (17.3 x 13 mm) with a 12MP resolution - a decent offering that sits between APS-C and smaller compact sensors in image quality, especially given its older CMOS tech paired with a TruePic VI processor. This sensor area clocks in at about 225 square millimeters, noticeably larger than that of typical compacts.

The TG-850 squeezes in a smaller 1/2.3-inch BSI-CMOS sensor (6.17 x 4.55 mm) at 16MP. While 16-megapixels sounds impressive, pixel density skyrockets, often at the expense of noise control and dynamic range.

According to DxO Mark scoring (where available), the E-PM1’s sensor offers a respectable 52 overall score, boasting stronger color depth (21 stops) and a wider dynamic range (10.3 stops), with ISO performance suitable up to 640 (standard 499). The TG-850’s sensor data isn’t rated by DxO, but given the size and typical performance of 1/2.3" sensors, expect higher noise and limited dynamic range.

In practical shooting, this means the E-PM1 delivers cleaner, richer images with more subtle tones and flexibility for post-processing - especially important for demanding applications like portraiture and landscape.

Autofocus and Focus Features: Speed, Accuracy, and Usability

Fast and accurate autofocus is often the make-or-break metric for everyday shooting, wildlife, or action.

The E-PM1 uses contrast-detection AF only (no phase-detection pixels), with 35 selectable focus points and face detection enabled. It supports continuous AF during burst shooting, and has a selective AF area mode, which is handy for more precise compositions.

The TG-850 likewise relies on contrast detection, but the exact number of AF points isn’t specified, and it lacks the refined face detection and selective AF area features seen in the E-PM1. Its autofocus speed is generally brisk but less tailored for complex tracking scenarios.

For continuous action like sports or wildlife, burst shooting counts: the TG-850 offers a slightly higher 7fps compared to E-PM1’s 6fps. But speed aside, E-PM1’s more comprehensive AF system and manual focus capabilities give it an edge in control and accuracy.

Neither camera offers animal eye-AF or phase-detection autofocus, which are modern luxuries mostly absent in their generations or categories.

Photography Muscle: How They Perform Across Genres

Let’s parse what these specs mean for you as a photographer - across the varied disciplines you might pursue.

Portraiture: Skin Tones, Bokeh, and Eye Detection

The E-PM1’s larger Four Thirds sensor and interchangeable lens mount allow for shallow depth of field using fast prime lenses - essential for flattering bokeh and subject isolation. The 12MP sensor renders skin tones with gentle gradations and decent color fidelity, helped by the TruePic VI processor’s image pipeline.

While it lacks advanced eye autofocus, its face detection works well enough for casual sessions.

TG-850’s small sensor and fixed lens limit bokeh potential, and skin tones are less natural, often suffering from the limitations of a smaller sensor's color depth. Face detection is available but less refined, and autofocus struggles more in low contrast conditions.

Portrait champion: Olympus E-PM1 hands down.

Landscape: Dynamic Range, Resolution, and Robustness

The E-PM1’s superior dynamic range and color depth translate into nuanced landscapes with well-preserved highlights and shadows. While 12MP may feel modest against today’s giants, it's more than sufficient for large prints and detailed editing.

Its lack of environmental sealing is a downside if you shoot in challenging weather. Plus, the availability of Micro Four Thirds lenses opens many creative doors.

The TG-850 can boast ruggedness and waterproofing, naturally appealing for outdoor hardcore adventurers. However, its smaller sensor and limited dynamic range blunt landscape fidelity - details in shadows or highlights get lost more easily.

Landscape pick: E-PM1 for image quality, TG-850 for weatherproof versatility.

Wildlife: Autofocus Speed and Telephoto Reach

Wildlife demands rapid, accurate AF and long focal reach.

Here, the TG-850’s fixed zoom lens covers 21-105mm (equivalent to 114-570mm in full frame terms due to its 5.8x crop factor), providing actual telephoto reach right out of the box.

The E-PM1, with its Micro Four Thirds mount and 2.1x crop factor, can be paired with professional tele lenses, often delivering better optical quality and autofocus precision - but at significantly higher investment.

Burst mode favors TG-850 marginally (7fps vs. 6fps), but E-PM1’s continuous AF and selective AF areas provide superior tracking.

Wildlife’s call: TG-850 if you want rugged telephoto reach without fuss; E-PM1 for expandable lens quality and refined AF control.

Sports: Tracking, Low Light, and Frame Rates

Sports photography is unforgiving - you want relentless AF tracking, high ISO performance, and fast frames.

Neither camera boasts state-of-the-art phase detect AF or lightning-fast burst rates. The E-PM1’s max shutter speed tops out at 1/4000s; the TG-850 maxes at 1/2000s, limiting action freeze in bright light. The E-PM1’s sensor handles low light better, with cleaner ISO performance.

For serious sports shooters, these cameras are middling performers at best. Still, casual hobbyists may suffice with either if proficient in light management.

Street Photography: Discretion, Portability, and Low Light

Street shooters prize compactness and stealth.

Both cameras are pocketable, but the TG-850 edges out with a sleeker profile and splash/dust proof finish - ideal for spontaneous urban exploration.

However, the E-PM1’s interchangeable lenses allow using small, fast primes that yield better low-light performance and control over background separation, pillared by its larger sensor.

Macro: Magnification, Focus Precision, and Stabilization

Macro work requires close focusing and steadiness.

TG-850’s lens encompasses a 21-105mm range with close-up focusing modes and optical image stabilization, good for casual macro snaps.

The E-PM1 can take advantage of dedicated Micro Four Thirds macro lenses with superior magnifications and sharpness. Also, the sensor-based stabilization (IBIS) assists in handheld macro shots.

Night and Astro: High ISO and Exposure Modes

The E-PM1’s sensor outperforms in high ISO noise control, vital for astro and night photography.

Without manual exposure control and no bulb mode, the TG-850 falls short for long exposures.

Video: Specs and Functionality

Both shoot Full HD 1080p video at 60fps. The E-PM1 outputs AVCHD and Motion JPEG, the TG-850 uses H.264 and Motion JPEG, with added timelapse support.

Neither has microphone or headphone jacks, nor 4K capabilities.

Stabilization is sensor-based in E-PM1 and optical in TG-850 - both helpful, but sensor-based IBIS often delivers steadier footage.

Travel: Versatility, Battery Life, Size, and Weight

The TG-850’s waterproof and shockproof design makes it a no-brainer for adventure travel, especially near water.

The E-PM1 is compact but requires care and additional lenses, carrying extra weight.

Battery life is identical (~330 shots), standard storage slots, and USB 2.0 connectivity on both.

Pro Usage: Reliability, Formats, and Workflow

E-PM1’s RAW support is a must-have for professional workflows. The TG-850 lacks RAW capture, limiting post-processing.

The E-PM1’s manual controls and lens options make it a more versatile tool in pro kits, although older tech limits cutting-edge performance.

Image Quality In Action: Sample Gallery

Seeing is believing. Here’s a side-by-side gallery showcasing both cameras’ capabilities in various scenarios - portrait, landscape, wildlife, and macro.

Olympus E PM1 screen back Olympus TG 850 iHS front Olympus TG 850 iHS screen back

Notice how the E-PM1’s files contain richer detail and smoother gradation, while the TG-850’s images are noticeably noisier with reduced dynamic range.

Summing Up Performance Scores

Bringing it all together, here’s a comparative snapshot across core performance metrics:

The E-PM1 scores higher in imaging quality, control, and professional flexibility, while the TG-850 shines in ruggedness and ease of use in demanding environments.

Genre-by-Genre Performance Breakdown

To help you pinpoint what fits you best, here’s how these cameras stack up in key photography styles:

Technical Realities: Under the Hood Insights

• Processor: E-PM1’s TruePic VI is solid but aging, TG-850’s TruePic VII is a step forward in processing speed.
• Lens Ecosystem: E-PM1’s Micro Four Thirds mount grants access to 100+ lenses; TG-850’s fixed lens limits versatility.
• Stabilization: IBIS on E-PM1 versus optical in TG-850 - IBIS typically grants greater versatility.
• Connectivity: TG-850 adds wireless capabilities (Wi-Fi), E-PM1 remains basic with USB 2.0 and HDMI.
• Storage: Both use SD cards; E-PM1 supports high capacity SDXC formats.
• Battery: Both use proprietary battery packs with similar longevity.

Who Should Choose Which?

• Buy the Olympus E-PM1 if:

  • You want a proper mirrorless camera with interchangeable lenses.
  • Image quality, manual control, and RAW are priorities.
  • You shoot portraits, landscapes, street, or macro with deliberate intent.
  • You’re on a budget but crave a flexible photographic tool.

• Go for the Olympus TG-850 iHS if:

  • You need a rugged, waterproof compact camera.
  • Your shooting involves adventure, travel where risk of damage is high.
  • You prefer a no-fuss camera with decent zoom and solid automatic modes.
  • Video timelapse and Wi-Fi connectivity are appealing.
  • RAW and fine-tuned manual control aren’t dealbreakers.

Final Thoughts: Contextualizing Choices in Today’s Market

While both cameras are a bit vintage in the fast-moving Olympus lineup, they still hold interest for enthusiasts and niche niches. The E-PM1’s Micro Four Thirds system remains a strong entry point to mirrorless creativity with excellent image quality for the price. The TG-850 offers a compelling choice for rugged compact shooters who don’t want to baby their gear.

Neither camera boasts cutting-edge AF or video specs that more recent models deliver, but each fulfills its own promise well - and that’s what counts when you consider the photographic journey you want to embark on.

In an era where megapixels and flashy features dominate marketing noise, these two remind us that the right tool depends less on spec sheets and more on the stories you want to tell.

Thank you for joining me on this exploratory ride! If you have specific use cases or want comparisons with newer models, just say the word - I’ve got a few more tales and tests up my sleeve. Happy shooting!