Olympus Tough-3000 vs Panasonic GF2

In this article, we will be evaluating the Olympus Tough-3000 versus Panasonic GF2, former is a Waterproof while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. The sensor resolution of the Tough-3000 (12MP) and the GF2 (12MP) is pretty comparable but the Tough-3000 (1/2.3") and GF2 (Four Thirds) feature totally different sensor size.

Photography Glossary

The Tough-3000 was unveiled 13 months before the GF2 which makes the cameras a generation away from one another. Both cameras offer different body type with the Olympus Tough-3000 being a Compact camera and the Panasonic GF2 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before delving through a detailed comparison, below is a brief synopsis of how the Tough-3000 grades versus the GF2 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

The following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus Tough-3000 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-GF2. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus Tough-3000 Gallery & Panasonic GF2 Gallery.

If you're looking to carry around your camera frequently, you are going to need to consider its weight and measurements. The Olympus Tough-3000 features exterior dimensions 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 Panasonic GF2 has proportions of 113mm x 68mm x 33mm (4.4" x 2.7" x 1.3") and a weight of 310 grams (0.68 lbs).

Look at the Olympus Tough-3000 versus Panasonic GF2 in our brand new Camera plus Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an ILC will differ depending on the lens you have chosen at that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the Tough-3000 compared to the GF2.

Considering dimensions and weight, the portability score of the Tough-3000 and GF2 is 94 and 88 respectively.

Sometimes, its difficult to see the gap in sensor sizes simply by going through specifications. The pic here should offer you a greater sense of the sensor sizes in the Tough-3000 and GF2.

To sum up, both of the cameras enjoy the same exact megapixel count albeit not the same sensor sizes. The Tough-3000 uses the smaller sensor which is going to make achieving shallower DOF tougher. The more aged Tough-3000 will be disadvantaged in sensor innovation.