Olympus E-PM2 vs Olympus TG-850 iHS

In this article, we will be comparing the Olympus E-PM2 versus Olympus TG-850 iHS, former being a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Waterproof and both of them are offered by Olympus. The resolution of the E-PM2 (16MP) and the TG-850 iHS (16MP) is pretty close but the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and TG-850 iHS (1/2.3") enjoy different sensor sizes.

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The E-PM2 was introduced 8 months before the TG-850 iHS so they are both of a similar age. Each of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus TG-850 iHS being a Compact camera.

Before delving through a comprehensive comparison, below is a concise introduction of how the E-PM2 grades against the TG-850 iHS in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM2 & Olympus Stylus Tough TG-850 iHS. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery & Olympus TG-850 iHS Gallery.

In case you're going to lug around your camera, you'll have to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus E-PM2 has outside measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 34mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.3") along with a weight of 269 grams (0.59 lbs) while the Olympus TG-850 iHS has measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.1") having a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PM2 versus Olympus TG-850 iHS in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an ILC will vary depending on the lens you use during that time. The following is the front view sizing comparison of the E-PM2 against the TG-850 iHS.

Using size and weight, the portability rating of the E-PM2 and TG-850 iHS is 89 and 91 respectively.

Generally, it is very hard to visualize the gap in sensor measurements purely by viewing technical specs. The graphic here will help provide you a better sense of the sensor measurements in the E-PM2 and TG-850 iHS.

As you can tell, both of these cameras enjoy the same exact resolution albeit different sensor measurements. The E-PM2 provides the bigger sensor which is going to make getting bokeh simpler. The older E-PM2 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.