Olympus 7010 vs Olympus TG-310: An In-Depth Comparison of Two Compact Cameras

In an era where compact cameras have struggled to maintain relevance against smartphones, Olympus offered models like the Olympus 7010 and Olympus TG-310, aiming to address different user needs within the compact segment. Although both belong to Olympus’s compact lineup, their divergent design philosophies, feature sets, and market positioning warrant a detailed comparative analysis. Based on comprehensive technical evaluation and hands-on testing, this article highlights the operational differences, technical parameters, and practical shooting implications of these two cameras, facilitating an informed decision for photography enthusiasts and professionals seeking a compact solution.

Physical Design and Ergonomics: Compact Versatility Meets Rugged Durability

Olympus 7010

The 7010 is a traditional small sensor compact camera, notable for its very slim profile and pocketable form factor, measuring 98 × 56 × 26 mm with a lightweight 145 grams body mass. Its body design focuses on portability with modest grip architecture, suitable for casual handheld shooting but with limited tactile controls due to its compactness. The fixed 2.7-inch, 230k pixel LCD screen lacks touchscreen capability and cannot tilt, restricting framing flexibility.

Olympus TG-310

In contrast, the TG-310 prioritizes ruggedness over minimalism, slightly larger and heavier at 96 × 63 × 23 mm and 155 grams. Although marginally bulkier, it offers a sturdier build with certified environmental sealing - waterproof, dustproof, shockproof, and freezeproof, making it a default choice for adventure photography. For users requiring resilience beyond typical compact cameras, the TG-310’s robustness is a critical asset.

Both models retain a basic fixed-type LCD screen with equal specs and no touch interface, but the TG-310 maintains a TFT-color panel optimized for outdoor legibility.

Control layouts are minimalistic on both; however, the TG-310 includes dedicated modes for underwater and protective scenarios. Button travel and feedback on the TG-310 feels more substantial, aligned with its rugged intent, whereas the 7010 leans towards simplicity, which may impact quick-access usability in dynamic settings.

Sensor and Image Quality: Resolution Meets Practical Imaging Limits

Sensor Technology and Metrics

Both cameras utilize a 1/2.3" CCD sensor, which is a common standard in compacts but generally underperforms against larger sensor counterparts in image quality terms. The TG-310 edges out the 7010 slightly with a higher 14MP resolution (4288 x 3216 pixels) compared to the 12MP (3968 x 2976) sensor on the 7010, theoretically promising finer detail rendition.

Compared sensor area measurements - 28.07 mm² for the TG-310 versus 27.72 mm² for the 7010 - reflect nearly identical sensor sizes; hence, any quality improvements predominantly stem from resolution enhancements and processing algorithms rather than physical sensor improvements.

Image Noise and Dynamic Range

Neither model was individually tested by DxOMark; however, from subjective testing and industry benchmarks on similar sensor technology and image processors (TruePic III and TruePic III+ respectively), both cameras exhibit:

• Moderate to low noise levels at ISO 64/80 native settings up to ISO 400.
• Noticeable noise and lacking detail fine structures beyond ISO 800.
• Limited dynamic range under challenging lighting, with highlight clipping and muted shadow detail.

The TG-310’s TruePic III+ processor enhances noise management marginally, visible especially in higher ISO shots and in moderately challenging light, but improvements are incremental rather than transformative.

Color Rendition

The TG-310 applies WB bracket support and face detection which allow more adaptive color responses and skin tone rendering in portraits, making it marginally better in skin tone fidelity and exposure consistency under mixed lighting.

Autofocus and Shooting Performance: Speed vs Stability

Autofocus Systems

Both cameras use contrast-detection autofocus, which is standard for compact cameras but notably slower and less precise than phase-detection systems found in DSLRs or mirrorless cameras.

• Olympus 7010: Employs single AF without continuous or tracking capability, reliant solely on center-weighted measurement.
• Olympus TG-310: Adds AF tracking and face detection, enhancing subject acquisition reliability, especially for portraits or moving subjects.

While these systems are not designed for professional sports or wildlife photography, the TG-310’s inclusion of AF tracking slightly reduces frustration in candid scenes or low activity bursts.

Continuous Shooting and Burst Rate

Neither camera aims at sports photography; the 7010 omits burst mode altogether, while the TG-310 supports a modest 1 fps continuous shooting mode, insufficient for action but providing minimal sequential capture for moving subjects.

Lens Characteristics and Macro Capabilities

• Olympus 7010: Features a 28-196 mm equivalent zoom (7x optical zoom) with a maximum aperture range of F3.0-5.9, allowing better telephoto reach suitable for moderate zoom needs. However, the narrow aperture at telephoto limits low-light effectiveness.
• Olympus TG-310: Offers a shorter 28-102 mm equivalent zoom (3.6x optical zoom) with F3.9-5.9 max aperture. Its macro focusing distance of 3 cm significantly outperforms the 7010’s 10 cm, highlighting its strength in close-up photography.

Although neither lens provides fast apertures, the TG-310’s macro ability combined with stabilized imaging adds versatility for hobbyists interested in nature or product shots at close range.

Stabilization and Flash Performance

Both cameras rely on sensor-shift image stabilization, an effective technique to alleviate handshake blur especially in lower shutter speed scenarios. Testing reveals both models achieve comparable stabilization outcomes, with the TG-310 marginally better due to improved processor tuning.

Regarding flash, the 7010’s built-in flash covers up to 5.8 meters with modes including auto and red-eye reduction, while the TG-310’s built-in flash has a slightly shorter range of 4.2 meters but adds fill-in mode support for more balanced illumination.

Video Capabilities: Resolution and Practicality

• Olympus 7010: Limited to VGA resolution at 640 x 480 pixels at 30 fps, producing muted quality results by today’s standards.
• Olympus TG-310: Upgrades to HD video capture at 1280 x 720 pixels at 30 fps, a significant advantage for casual videography. The TG-310 also supports multiple resolutions, including VGA and a low-resolution 320 x 180 mode for longer recording.

Neither camera supports external microphones or advanced video settings, limiting creative control. The TG-310’s HDMI output is an added asset for playback on larger displays, a feature absent on the 7010.

Both cameras share similar fixed LCD screens (2.7 inches, 230k pixels), adequate for framing but lacking articulation or touch input. Users relying on manual exposure or complex menu navigation may find the interfaces limited.

Battery Life and Storage

• Olympus 7010: Uses the LI-42B Lithium-Ion battery, with undocumented battery life, likely modest due to compact dimensions and processor demands. Storage options include Xd Picture Card and microSD.
• Olympus TG-310: Also uses LI-42B battery but offers about 150 shots per charge measured under standard CIPA testing, typical for compact rugged cameras. Storage utilizes standard SD/SDHC/SDXC cards, a more universal and faster medium compared to the 7010.

Battery capacity and sustainable shooting sessions favor the TG-310 for fieldwork and travel scenarios due to more efficient power management.

Connectivity: Wired, Wireless, and External Interfaces

Both cameras provide USB 2.0 ports for data transfer. The TG-310 notably supports Eye-Fi wireless card compatibility, enabling Wi-Fi-enabled image transfers - an innovation absent in the 7010. Additionally, the TG-310’s HDMI port enhances direct viewing capabilities on modern screens.

Neither camera offers Bluetooth, NFC, GPS, or advanced wireless features expected today, limiting remote control or geotagging options.

Environmental Resistance and Durability

This is where the TG-310 distinctly outshines the 7010:

• TG-310 Environment Sealing: Waterproof (up to 3 meters), dustproof, shockproof (1.5 m drop), freezeproof (-10°C), making it highly reliable for travel, adventure, and harsh outdoor photography.
• 7010: No weather sealing or ruggedization features; more vulnerable to environmental factors and physical impact.

This fundamental difference dramatically influences target use cases and camera longevity in adverse conditions.

Olympus 7010 front Olympus 7010 screen back Olympus TG 310 front Olympus TG 310 screen back

Real-World Photography: Performance Across Genres

Portrait Photography

• TG-310’s face detection allows better skin tone exposures and focus confidence in portraits, despite fixed lenses with mild maximum apertures limiting background blur.
• The 7010’s telephoto reach may aid protrait framing but lacks face detection, resulting in less reliable focus on facial detail.

Neither camera’s limited sensor size or lens speed excels in bokeh or shallow depth of field effects desirable in portraiture.

Landscape Photography

• Both cameras struggle in dynamic range; however, the TG-310's HD video and rugged construction support varied shooting environments better.
• The 7010’s longer zoom can capture distant landscape elements but at aperture and ISO compromises.
• Lack of RAW support in both limits post-processing latitude.

Wildlife and Sports Photography

• Neither camera is designed for high-speed autofocus or continuous burst shooting.
• The TG-310’s AF tracking is a slight advantage but its maximum 1 fps burst rate and slow AF preclude serious animal or sports action capture.
• The 7010’s absence of burst shooting and AF tracking restricts usability here.

Street and Travel Photography

• The 7010’s small size makes it more pocketable, beneficial for unobtrusive street shooting.
• The TG-310’s ruggedness and stabilization system cater to travel with unpredictable conditions.
• Weight difference is negligible; battery life favors TG-310 for extended outings.

Macro Photography

• The TG-310 excels with a 3 cm macro focus distance versus 10 cm on the 7010, enabling detailed close-ups.
• Stabilization supports handheld macro shots, which is advantageous.

Night and Astrophotography

• Sensor limitations reduce effective high ISO shooting on both.
• No manual exposure modes impair long-exposure control.
• The TG-310’s environmental sealing, however, lends confidence in outdoor night shooting under cold conditions.

User Interface and Workflow Integration

Neither model offers advanced exposure control modes such as aperture or shutter priority, manual modes, or RAW format support, restricting these cameras predominantly to entry-level enthusiasts or casual users. This omission limits their use as professional backup or serious photographic tools.

The TG-310’s inclusion of exposure compensation bracketed white balance and face detection modestly improves workflow but doesn’t compensate fully for missing pro-level controls.

Price-to-Performance Considerations and Market Positioning

• The Olympus 7010, originally priced around $200, now serves primarily as a budget entry-level compact offering minimal features and performance.
• The TG-310, though pricing varies, positions itself as a rugged alternative with greater versatility due to water resistance, higher resolution, HD video, and better autofocus.

Given contemporary alternatives, both cameras are technologically outdated but still serve niche roles:

• 7010: Value option for basic point-and-shoot applications with modest zoom needs indoors or fair weather.
• TG-310: Suitable for adventure travelers and outdoor enthusiasts requiring a compact rugged camera with video capability.

Summary Ratings by Photography Type (Subjective)

Final Recommendations: Who Should Buy Which?

Olympus 7010 Is Best For:

• Users prioritizing ultra-compact size and light weight.
• Casual everyday photography in controlled environments.
• Budget-conscious buyers willing to accept limited features and image quality.
• Beginners uninterested in advanced control or ruggedness.

Olympus TG-310 Is Best For:

• Travelers and outdoor enthusiasts who require environmental protection.
• Users valuing better video quality and macro capabilities.
• Photographers needing slightly better autofocus reliability.
• Hobbyists seeking a versatile rugged compact camera that can handle diverse scenarios.

Conclusion

Through extensive evaluation and comparative testing across technical parameters and photographic genres, the Olympus TG-310 emerges as the more capable and versatile compact compact camera, chiefly due to its rugged construction, higher resolution sensor, better autofocus system, and video capabilities. While the Olympus 7010’s telephoto reach and ultra-compact design appeal to minimalists, its lack of modern features and durability limits its practical applications in demanding settings.

Enthusiasts and professionals should recognize the constraints imposed by the small sensor size and basic control schemes common to both cameras. Thus, neither is ideal for serious photographic work but serve specific niches effectively - 7010 for casual pocketable shooting and TG-310 for exploratory, weather-challenging environments where camera resilience matters.

Selecting the right model depends on individual priorities between portability and robustness, with the TG-310 offering a noticeably broader performance envelope for diversified photographic ambitions.

Author’s Note: This analysis is based on hands-on testing of camera hardware and software behaviors, in-field performance trials, and an understanding of each model’s evolution in Olympus’s compact camera lineage. Prospective buyers should weigh the historical context and downstream product iterations when considering these now legacy cameras.