Olympus Tough-3000 vs Panasonic FP5

In this article, we will be evaluating the Olympus Tough-3000 vs Panasonic FP5, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Ultracompact by brands Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the Tough-3000 (12MP) and the FP5 (14MP) is relatively comparable and they use the same exact sensor sizing (1/2.3").

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The Tough-3000 was announced 12 months prior to the FP5 which means that they are both of a similar generation. Both of these cameras offer different body type with the Olympus Tough-3000 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic FP5 being a Ultracompact camera.

Before diving through a thorough comparison, below is a short synopsis of how the Tough-3000 scores versus the FP5 when considering portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

The following is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus Tough-3000 and Panasonic Lumix DMC-FP5. The whole galleries are provided at Olympus Tough-3000 Gallery and Panasonic FP5 Gallery.

For anyone who is planning to lug around your camera, you need to take into account its weight and dimensions. The Olympus Tough-3000 comes with outside dimensions of 96mm x 65mm x 23mm (3.8" x 2.6" x 0.9") and a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) whilst the Panasonic FP5 has dimensions of 101mm x 59mm x 18mm (4.0" x 2.3" x 0.7") along with a weight of 141 grams (0.31 lbs).

Contrast the Olympus Tough-3000 vs Panasonic FP5 in the latest Camera with Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are using at that moment. Following is the front view measurement comparison of the Tough-3000 versus the FP5.

Looking at dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the Tough-3000 and FP5 is 94 and 95 respectively.

More often than not, it's difficult to picture the gap in sensor measurements only by checking out specs. The visual here will give you a clearer sense of the sensor sizes in the Tough-3000 and FP5.

All in all, each of these cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit different resolution. You should count on the Panasonic FP5 to show extra detail with its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also let you crop photographs a little more aggressively. The older Tough-3000 will be disadvantaged when it comes to sensor tech.