Olympus E-PM1 vs Olympus TG-870

Below is a detailed overview of the Olympus E-PM1 versus Olympus TG-870, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Ultracompact and they are both sold by Olympus. There exists a sizable gap among the sensor resolutions of the E-PM1 (12MP) and TG-870 (16MP) and the E-PM1 (Four Thirds) and TG-870 (1/2.3") come with different sensor sizes.

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The E-PM1 was introduced 5 years earlier than the TG-870 and that is a fairly significant difference as far as camera technology is concerned. Both the cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PM1 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus TG-870 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before we go in to a detailed comparison, below is a simple summation of how the E-PM1 grades against the TG-870 in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM1 & Olympus Stylus Tough TG-870. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-PM1 Gallery & Olympus TG-870 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to lug around your camera often, you have to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PM1 has physical measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") accompanied by a weight of 265 grams (0.58 lbs) whilst the Olympus TG-870 has sizing of 113mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.1") along with a weight of 221 grams (0.49 lbs).

Examine the Olympus E-PM1 versus Olympus TG-870 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will differ dependant on the lens you are utilising during that time. The following is the front view size comparison of the E-PM1 versus the TG-870.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PM1 and TG-870 is 89 and 91 respectively.

Normally, it is hard to visualize the difference in sensor measurements simply by viewing a spec sheet. The graphic below should offer you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the E-PM1 and TG-870.

Clearly, both the cameras offer different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The E-PM1 using its bigger sensor is going to make shooting shallower depth of field easier and the Olympus TG-870 will provide you with more detail using its extra 4MP. Higher resolution can also allow you to crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older E-PM1 will be behind with regard to sensor tech.