Olympus TG-850 iHS vs Sony NEX-3

Below is a detailed review of the Olympus TG-850 iHS versus Sony NEX-3, former being a Waterproof while the latter is a Entry-Level Mirrorless by competitors Olympus and Sony. The sensor resolution of the TG-850 iHS (16MP) and the NEX-3 (14MP) is relatively well matched but the TG-850 iHS (1/2.3") and NEX-3 (APS-C) offer different sensor sizes.

Photography Glossary

The TG-850 iHS was announced 3 years later than the NEX-3 and that is quite a sizable difference as far as technology is concerned. Both of these cameras feature different body design with the Olympus TG-850 iHS being a Compact camera and the Sony NEX-3 being a Rangefinder-style mirrorless camera.

Before we go right into a more detailed comparison, here is a concise summation of how the TG-850 iHS grades against the NEX-3 in relation to portability, imaging, features and an overall grade.

This is a preview of the gallery photos for Olympus Stylus Tough TG-850 iHS & Sony Alpha NEX-3. The whole galleries are viewable at Olympus TG-850 iHS Gallery & Sony NEX-3 Gallery.

For anyone who is aiming to lug around your camera, you will need to consider its weight and volume. The Olympus TG-850 iHS enjoys exterior measurements of 110mm x 64mm x 28mm (4.3" x 2.5" x 1.1") with a weight of 218 grams (0.48 lbs) whilst the Sony NEX-3 has sizing of 117mm x 62mm x 33mm (4.6" x 2.4" x 1.3") along with a weight of 297 grams (0.65 lbs).

See the Olympus TG-850 iHS versus Sony NEX-3 in our newest Camera & Lens Size Comparison Tool.

Take into account, the weight of an ILC will change depending on the lens you choose during that time. Below is a front view dimension comparison of the TG-850 iHS against the NEX-3.

Factoring in dimensions and weight, the portability grade of the TG-850 iHS and NEX-3 is 91 and 89 respectively.

Sometimes, it can be hard to imagine the difference between sensor measurements just by checking specs. The graphic below will help provide you a much better sense of the sensor sizing in the TG-850 iHS and NEX-3.

As you can plainly see, the 2 cameras feature different resolutions and different sensor measurements. The TG-850 iHS with its tinier sensor is going to make getting shallower depth of field tougher and the Olympus TG-850 iHS will give you more detail with its extra 2 Megapixels. Higher resolution will allow you to crop shots way more aggressively. The more modern TG-850 iHS provides an edge when it comes to sensor technology.