Olympus Tough-3000 vs Panasonic XS1

In this write-up, we are contrasting the Olympus Tough-3000 vs Panasonic XS1, former is a Waterproof while the other is a Small Sensor Compact by manufacturers Olympus and Panasonic. There is a considerable difference between the image resolutions of the Tough-3000 (12MP) and XS1 (16MP) but they come with the same exact sensor measurements (1/2.3").

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The Tough-3000 was unveiled 4 years prior to the XS1 which is quite a large difference as far as tech is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before we go straight into a step-by-step comparison, below is a short introduction of how the Tough-3000 scores against the XS1 with respect to portability, imaging, features and an overall score.

Following is a sample of the gallery pictures for Olympus Stylus Tough-3000 & Panasonic Lumix DMC-XS1. The full galleries are available at Olympus Tough-3000 Gallery & Panasonic XS1 Gallery.

For those who are going to carry around your camera, you'll need to factor its weight and measurements. The Olympus Tough-3000 offers outer measurements of 96mm x 65mm x 23mm (3.8" x 2.6" x 0.9") along with a weight of 159 grams (0.35 lbs) while the Panasonic XS1 has proportions of 94mm x 54mm x 14mm (3.7" x 2.1" x 0.6") accompanied by a weight of 103 grams (0.23 lbs).

Take a look at the Olympus Tough-3000 vs Panasonic XS1 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Don't forget, the weight of an ILC will vary dependant on the lens you use at that time. Following is the front view physical size comparison of the Tough-3000 and the XS1.

Factoring in size and weight, the portability score of the Tough-3000 and XS1 is 94 and 97 respectively.

In many cases, it is very difficult to envision the contrast between sensor sizes only by going over a spec sheet. The picture below may provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the Tough-3000 and XS1.

Clearly, both the cameras enjoy the same exact sensor sizing but not the same resolution. You can anticipate the Panasonic XS1 to offer extra detail having an extra 4 Megapixels. Greater resolution will enable you to crop images far more aggressively. The more aged Tough-3000 is going to be disadvantaged in sensor technology.