Olympus TG-850 iHS vs Panasonic S3

Let's look a bit more in depth at the Olympus TG-850 iHS versus Panasonic S3, one being a Waterproof and the latter is a Small Sensor Compact by rivals Olympus and Panasonic. The image resolution of the TG-850 iHS (16MP) and the S3 (14MP) is pretty close and they use the same exact sensor sizes (1/2.3").

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The TG-850 iHS was revealed 3 years later than the S3 and that is a fairly sizable gap as far as camera technology is concerned. Each of the cameras offer the identical body type (Compact).

Before getting straight into a in-depth comparison, below is a quick synopsis of how the TG-850 iHS scores vs the S3 with regards to portability, imaging, features and an overall rating.

Following is a preview of the gallery images for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-850 iHS and Panasonic Lumix DMC-S3. The full galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-850 iHS Gallery and Panasonic S3 Gallery.

If you're planning to carry your camera, you need to consider its weight and size. The Olympus TG-850 iHS offers exterior dimensions of 110mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.1") with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs) while the Panasonic S3 has specifications of 99mm x 59mm x 21mm (3.9" x 2.3" x 0.8") accompanied by a weight of 117 grams (0.26 lbs).

Check the Olympus TG-850 iHS versus Panasonic S3 in the new Camera and Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Remember, the weight of an Interchangeable Lens Camera will differ dependant on the lens you are working with during that time. Underneath is the front view physical size comparison of the TG-850 iHS and the S3.

Taking into account dimensions and weight, the portability score of the TG-850 iHS and S3 is 91 and 96 respectively.

More often than not, it's hard to envision the gap in sensor sizing simply by researching a spec sheet. The graphic here will help offer you a stronger sense of the sensor sizes in the TG-850 iHS and S3.

As you can see, both of the cameras offer the same exact sensor sizing albeit not the same resolution. You should expect the Olympus TG-850 iHS to render extra detail because of its extra 2MP. Higher resolution will also make it easier to crop pictures a little more aggressively. The newer TG-850 iHS will have a benefit in sensor technology.