Olympus Tough-3000 vs Olympus XZ-2 iHS

On this page, we will be reviewing the Olympus Tough-3000 versus Olympus XZ-2 iHS, one is a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact and both of them are manufactured by Olympus. The sensor resolution of the Tough-3000 (12MP) and the XZ-2 iHS (12MP) is relatively similar but the Tough-3000 (1/2.3") and XZ-2 iHS (1/1.7") have different sensor dimensions.

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The Tough-3000 was introduced 3 years prior to the XZ-2 iHS which is quite a sizable gap as far as technology is concerned. Each of these cameras have the same body design (Compact).

Before diving into a thorough comparison, here is a quick overview of how the Tough-3000 grades against the XZ-2 iHS in terms of portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus Tough-3000 and Olympus XZ-2 iHS. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus Tough-3000 Gallery and Olympus XZ-2 iHS Gallery.

If you are planning to carry around your camera, you need to take into account its weight and proportions. The Olympus Tough-3000 has got exterior measurements of 96mm x 65mm x 23mm (3.8" x 2.6" x 0.9") and a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) and the Olympus XZ-2 iHS has measurements of 113mm x 65mm x 48mm (4.4" x 2.6" x 1.9") along with a weight of 346 grams (0.76 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus Tough-3000 versus Olympus XZ-2 iHS in the latest Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Always remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will change depending on the lens you choose during that time. Here is a front view measurement comparison of the Tough-3000 versus the XZ-2 iHS.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability score of the Tough-3000 and XZ-2 iHS is 94 and 85 respectively.

Normally, it's difficult to picture the contrast between sensor sizes just by reviewing technical specs. The pic here should give you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the Tough-3000 and XZ-2 iHS.

As you have seen, both the cameras have the same megapixels albeit different sensor sizes. The Tough-3000 provides the tinier sensor which should make getting shallower depth of field tougher. The more aged Tough-3000 is going to be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor technology.