Olympus SZ-12 vs Olympus TG-850 iHS

In this write-up, we will be reviewing the Olympus SZ-12 vs Olympus TG-850 iHS, former being a Small Sensor Superzoom while the latter is a Waterproof and both are produced by Olympus. The image resolution of the SZ-12 (14MP) and the TG-850 iHS (16MP) is pretty well matched and they enjoy the same exact sensor dimensions (1/2.3").

Apple Innovates by Creating Next-Level Optical Stabilization for iPhone

The SZ-12 was manufactured 3 years before the TG-850 iHS and that is quite a big difference as far as technology is concerned. The two cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before delving in to a full comparison, below is a quick introduction of how the SZ-12 scores vs the TG-850 iHS when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

Below is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus SZ-12 & Olympus Stylus Tough TG-850 iHS. The entire galleries are provided at Olympus SZ-12 Gallery & Olympus TG-850 iHS Gallery.

For anybody who is planning to lug around your camera, you will need to factor in its weight and size. The Olympus SZ-12 offers exterior dimensions of 106mm x 69mm x 40mm (4.2" x 2.7" x 1.6") and a weight of 226 grams (0.50 lbs) whilst the Olympus TG-850 iHS has specifications of 110mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.1") with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs).

Check out the Olympus SZ-12 vs Olympus TG-850 iHS in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will differ based on the lens you choose at the time. Below is the front view scale comparison of the SZ-12 vs the TG-850 iHS.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the SZ-12 and TG-850 iHS is 89 and 91 respectively.

Typically, it can be tough to envision the difference between sensor measurements simply by looking at technical specs. The photograph here will give you a much better sense of the sensor sizes in the SZ-12 and TG-850 iHS.

As you have seen, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same MP. You can expect the Olympus TG-850 iHS to give more detail due to its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also help you crop pictures far more aggressively. The older SZ-12 is going to be behind in sensor tech.