Olympus SP-810 UZ vs Olympus TG-3

On this page, we will be looking at the Olympus SP-810 UZ and Olympus TG-3, one being a Small Sensor Superzoom and the latter is a Waterproof and both of them are manufactured by Olympus. The resolution of the SP-810 UZ (14MP) and the TG-3 (16MP) is pretty close and both cameras provide the same sensor sizing (1/2.3").

Photography Glossary

The SP-810 UZ was revealed 3 years prior to the TG-3 and that is a fairly large gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Both cameras have different body design with the Olympus SP-810 UZ being a SLR-like (bridge) camera and the Olympus TG-3 being a Compact camera.

Before getting straight to a step-by-step comparison, here is a quick view of how the SP-810 UZ matches up versus the TG-3 with regard to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Here is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SP-810 UZ and Olympus Tough TG-3. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus SP-810 UZ Gallery and Olympus TG-3 Gallery.

For anyone who is looking to carry your camera regularly, you'll have to consider its weight and dimensions. The Olympus SP-810 UZ features exterior measurements of 106mm x 76mm x 74mm (4.2" x 3.0" x 2.9") with a weight of 413 grams (0.91 lbs) while the Olympus TG-3 has dimensions 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 SP-810 UZ and Olympus TG-3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember that, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at that moment. Following is a front view size comparison of the SP-810 UZ compared to the TG-3.

Taking into consideration dimensions and weight, the portability rating of the SP-810 UZ and TG-3 is 78 and 90 respectively.

Normally, it can be tough to visualise the contrast in sensor sizing merely by looking through a spec sheet. The photograph below may provide you a more clear sense of the sensor sizing in the SP-810 UZ and TG-3.

As you can see, both of these cameras have the same sensor dimensions albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Olympus TG-3 to provide you with greater detail because of its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will also allow you to crop shots a bit more aggressively. The older SP-810 UZ will be disadvantaged with regard to sensor innovation.