Olympus E-PM2 vs Olympus TG-870

Here, we will be matching up the Olympus E-PM2 and Olympus TG-870, former is a Entry-Level Mirrorless while the latter is a Ultracompact and both of them are created by Olympus. The sensor resolution of the E-PM2 (16MP) and the TG-870 (16MP) is pretty well matched but the E-PM2 (Four Thirds) and TG-870 (1/2.3") have different sensor sizing.

Photography Glossary

The E-PM2 was brought out 3 years before the TG-870 which is quite a significant difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of the cameras feature different body design with the Olympus E-PM2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera and the Olympus TG-870 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before delving into a in-depth comparison, here is a short overview of how the E-PM2 matches up versus the TG-870 in the way of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

This is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus PEN E-PM2 & Olympus Stylus Tough TG-870. The entire galleries are available at Olympus E-PM2 Gallery & Olympus TG-870 Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera, you will need to think about its weight and volume. The Olympus E-PM2 has exterior dimensions 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-870 has sizing of 113mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.4" x 2.5" x 1.1") accompanied by a weight of 221 grams (0.49 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus E-PM2 and Olympus TG-870 in our completely new Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Do not forget, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you have attached at the time. Underneath is a front view measurement comparison of the E-PM2 against the TG-870.

Using dimensions and weight, the portability score of the E-PM2 and TG-870 is 89 and 91 respectively.

More often than not, it is difficult to imagine the contrast between sensor sizes merely by checking specs. The image underneath might give you a far better sense of the sensor dimensions in the E-PM2 and TG-870.

As you can plainly see, both of those cameras come with the identical megapixel count albeit different sensor sizes. The E-PM2 features the bigger sensor which should make achieving bokeh simpler. The more aged E-PM2 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.